How to Clean Custom Furniture Slipcovers

Custom slipcovers are made with the same fabric that a generic slipcover is made from, the difference being that the custom type is made to fit a specific piece of furniture in your home. The most important aspect, when it comes to cleaning, is whether or not the slipcover is made from a synthetic material, like rayon, or a natural material, like cotton. The material type is the main determining factor when it comes time to clean it.

Brushing

• Brushing a custom slipcover is a maintenance cleaning routine. Brushing regularly removes hair, including pet hair and surface dirt. Brushing also brings the nap back up, if applicable, in the places where the nap has been crushed down from sitting or leaning. Use a furniture upholstery brush for best results.

Vacuuming

• Remove deep set in dirt with a vacuum and an upholstery brush attachment. A vacuum removes dirt and deep-set dust particles while the brush loosens up hair so the suction removes it. Most vacuums come with an upholstery brush accessory, and they can be found at hardware and department stores.

Spot Cleaning

• You can use a multi-fabric upholstery cleaner for spot cleaning. Test in an inconspicuous place first to make sure the cleaner does not alter the color of the slip cover. Spray the cleaner onto the spot, allow it to sit for a few minutes, then blot it off with a clean or damp colorfast cloth or sponge.

Washing

• Custom slipcovers made of cotton are washable on a permanent-press setting. lighter colors are best washed with medium hot water while darker colors wash best in cold water. Spot treat with dish washing liquid for lighter stains, or use a laundry type of spray and wash solution for darker stains. Dry the slipcover on a permanent press setting for about 15 minutes until the larger areas of the cover have dried, then iron corners or pleats, if needed, and slip the cover back over the upholstery when the slipcover is still damp.

Dry Cleaning

• Custom slipcovers can be dry cleaned in all instances, and in some cases they are recommended to be dry cleaned only. Dry cleaning better preserves the slip cover and it reduces the chance of shrinking.