How To Clean Chair Cushions In 5 Easy Steps

A chair cushion can make a big difference in the comfort of your or someone else’s life. Not only are they essential to our wellbeing, but they can also make an otherwise mundane task more pleasant. With that said, you must clean them often to maintain their health and effectiveness.

This article provides easy step-by-step instructions on how to wash your cushions as well as tips for keeping them clean in the future. In addition, you will learn about different ways of cleaning them, including soap and water, baking soda, and how frequently you should do so, depending on what type of fabric you have used.

How To Clean Chair Cushions

Why Should I Clean My Chair Cushions?

It is important to clean your cushions because, over time, dirt and grime from the outside will begin to build upon the inside of your cushion. This can cause stains that are very difficult to get rid of and wear and tear on the fabric or material. If you have ever tried to clean a stained cushion, you know that they are almost impossible to remove once there’s a layer of filth on them. You may also be surprised by how much dirt is inside of even the cleanest-looking cushion. Maintaining your cushions is an easy way to prevent this from happening in the future.

While some older cushions can be reupholstered, most people do not have the time or money to put into this. However, you can usually clean your cushion for less than the cost of reupholstering it, and all you need is a bit of elbow grease and a few simple supplies.

How To Clean Chair Cushions: 5 Proven Steps

I prepared this step-by-step guide to provide you vast information about how to clean chair cushions with no fuss.

Purchase Cleaner

Your first step is to ensure that you purchase a cleaner that is appropriate for the material your chairs are made of. The cleaner should not have any harsh chemicals, and it should contain enzymes capable of breaking down odors.

Remove Cushions

Next, remove all the cushions from the chairs and place them in a large plastic garbage bag before the next step.

Apply Cleaner

Begin applying the cleaner to your chairs, liberally covering each surface with a thin layer of cleaner using a sponge or cotton cloth or clean microfiber cloth so that you can get into deep grooves and crevices where soap cannot reach by hand alone. Let it sit for five minutes before pursuing step one four more times if necessary.

Repeat Until Clean

Repeat steps as many times as necessary until you are sure that all visible dirt and grime have been removed from the chair seats, arms, and backrest areas.

Dry Or Air Dry

If you chose to air dry, simply let them air dry in a protected area where they will not be disturbed by wind or rain for 24 hours until completely dry before putting the cushions back on your chairs and using them again.

How Often Do You Need To Clean Chair Cushions?

It depends on the type of fabric your cushion is made from, as well as how often you use it. For example, if your cushions are made of upholstery fabric, then they need to be cleaned with a wet vacuum before it starts to break down and attract dirt. This means that you should take the time to give them a good vacuum every week or two before they start looking shabby. 

If your cushion is made out of microfiber, it’s best to only vacuum when any spills happen. The other way is that you can clean these cushions by using soap and water.

FAQ

How Can I Clean My Chair Cushions At Home?

There are three main ways to clean your chair cushions at home.
1. Vacuum Method: Attach the vacuum hose to the upholstery attachment and vacuum the chair cushions thoroughly.
2. Spot Clean Method: If there are only a few stains or small areas of the chair cushions that need cleaning, you can spot clean the problem area. Apply mild soap and warm water to a cloth or sponge and gently scrub the area. 
3. Treat Method: This method is best for more stubborn dirt and stains like wine or coffee. As described in point 1 above, the first vacuum then applies a mixture of 1/4 cup vinegar to 8 tablespoons of mild detergent to the detergent compartment of your washing machine. Then, it allows it to run through a normal wash cycle.

What Can I Use To Clean My Chair Cushions?

Your best bet is to use a vacuum cleaner with a hose attachment. This should work nicely for the job and not involve any chemicals whatsoever. Just be sure that the nozzle on the vacuum cleaner attachment is thin enough that it can fit in between the ridges of your chair’s cushion to reach every nook and cranny.

Can You Wash A Chair Cushion?

Yes, you can! But before you do, make sure it is not stuffed with foam, feathers, or beans. You can tell by looking inside the cover. If they are included, remove them first, so they don’t clog your washing machine.
Then turn the cushion upside down on a flat surface and peel off its outer cover to reveal the inner stuffing. Next, turn it back right-side-up and flip it over again so that the part without stuffing is facing up.