Before selecting a fabric you should always check the suppliers cleaning code. This can help you determine which fabrics are best suited for your lifestyle and end use of the product. Fabric cleaning codes explain the best way for home cleaning of that specific fabric. The list below notes the cleaning codes most commonly used for upholstery fabric and how they should be followed.
Due to the various ways that furniture can be stained or damaged, there is no guarantee that the results will be completely successful. Use the suggested methods at your own discretion.
Always pre-test on a small area before proceeding.
To prevent overall soil from dust and grime, frequent vacuuming or light brushing is recommended. Use a professional cleaning service when an overall soiled condition has been reached.
Pilling
Pilling is caused by abrasion on the fabric’s surface and is a common occurrence on upholstery fabrics. Loose fibers naturally tend to move to the surface of the fabric where they are subject to friction, which causes them to twist together into small “balls” or “pills”. This occurrence is similar to pilling experienced with fleecy tracksuits, blankets, etc. If pilling reoccurs, it can simply be shaved off again. This may occur several times, but the pilling will diminish and eventually cease once the excess fibers are removed.
Pilling is NOT considered a defect, and is easily treated. It is recommended to use a battery-operated pill shaver. Ultimately, pilling is not preventable. However, you can avoid a few things to mitigate the likelihood of pilling. Do not rub stains, blotting the area that needs to be cleaned is always recommended. Periodic maintenance such as vacuuming and flipping and rotating cushions for even wear is always recommended.
Leather is one of the oldest, most durable materials known to man. Because it is a natural substance, leather breathes. Similar to human’s skin, it maintains the temperature of the room and is porous, allowing it to absorb and evacuate moisture from its surface, as well as to allow air to move freely through it. Leather molds to a form, but will not stretch out of shape. Each hide is completely unique and has its own individual characteristics.
Leather is a versatile and durable material, with proper care, quality leather products will maintain their look and feel for a long time. Routine dusting and vacuuming are recommenced. Never use chemical cleaners, soap, oils or detergents on leather. Should spills or surface soiling occur, immediately clean with a damp cloth. Keep leather away from direct sunlight and heat for optimal lifespan.
Protected leathers are buffed and corrected to conceal the leathers natural markings and display a more even colouring. The leather is often embossed to ensure consistency and prevent fading. These leathers tend to not mark as easily and can tolerate a stronger cleaning solution. Protected leathers provide incredible durability with minimal maintenance.
Semi-Aniline leather has a light pigmentation and a clear sealant applied to provide colour consistency from hide to hide and stain resistance. Natural markings (scars, wrinkles, etc.) will still be visible, but it is a high-quality, soft, beautiful, durable and practical leather. Techniques can be applied in the finishing process to produce and aged patina-like look and finished with a waxy topcoat to enhance its appearance.
Aniline leather is the softest, natural looking leather and uses the best hide selection available. There is no correction done to an aniline leather, which allows for its natural characteristics and true beauty to be seen. Leather has many natural beauty marks, scars, blemishes and wrinkles. These distinctions are due to many factors such as climate, age, and location of cattle. Hides vary due to the leather being a natural skin. There may be colour variances throughout a single hide, but none of these variations have any impact on the leather’s strength or resilience. Each hide is one of a kind, luxurious, and beautiful.