To clean an ottoman or pouf, start by identifying its material to choose the right cleaning method. Regularly vacuum to remove dust and clean any stains with the correct cleaning solutions.
Consistently maintaining your ottoman or pouf will help it last longer and keep your space clean and welcoming.
Identify Your Ottoman's Material
Identify the material of your ottoman before cleaning. Use suitable methods and products for each type of material to avoid damage.
For a cotton ottoman, use a mild shampoo with a soft cloth or sponge, and avoid soaking the fabric.
Brush a faux fur ottoman regularly and blot stains with a damp sponge.
Clean a faux leather ottoman with a gentle soap and water mixture, but avoid harsh cleaners.
Vacuum a felt ottoman with an attachment and spot clean with a water-based cleaner.
For leather, clean with saddle soap and apply a leather conditioner; only use products made for leather.
Different materials require specific care. Always use water-based cleaners when possible and test cleaners on a hidden area first.
Vacuum and Remove Dust
Start the cleaning process by vacuuming the ottoman or pouf to remove dust and particles. Use the correct vacuum attachment for the material—felt, wool, or cotton—to lift debris without damaging the fabric.
For felt, use a gentle vacuum attachment to prevent damage and remove loose particles. If the ottoman is woolen, brush it first to loosen crumbs and debris, then vacuum. For cotton, vacuum regularly to keep it fresh, and use baking soda to deodorize by sprinkling it on the surface, leaving it for 20 minutes, and then vacuuming it off.
For upholstered ottomans, use the upholstery attachment on the vacuum cleaner to remove pet hair, dust, and other embedded debris. Clean all sides of the ottoman and use a cleaning brush for surface dirt before vacuuming. This maintenance helps extend the life and appearance of the ottoman or pouf.
Treat Stains Appropriately
Identify the material of your ottoman or pouf before treating stains to avoid damage. For vinyl, use hydrogen peroxide or diluted bleach. Apply with a sponge and blot with a damp cloth.
Clean faux leather with a half-and-half mix of white vinegar and water, wiping off after application. For leather with grease stains, start by blotting with a dry cloth. If necessary, follow with gentle soap and lukewarm water. For tougher stains, dab with rubbing alcohol or nail polish remover using a cotton swab.
Handle linen gently with a mix of white vinegar and cool water, blotting without soaking. Use a dry cleaning solvent for wool, applying with a damp sponge or cloth and blotting afterward.
Always test cleaning solutions on a hidden area first to prevent discoloration or fabric damage. This ensures your furniture remains in good condition.
Apply Suitable Cleaning Agents
Choose an appropriate cleaner for your ottoman or pouf based on its material.
For cotton, use a soft cloth or sponge with carpet shampoo to gently remove dirt and stains.
Faux leather can be maintained with a mild detergent solution and occasionally treated with rubbing alcohol or upholstery cleaner for tougher spots.
Wool poufs should be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild detergent solution, avoiding rough scrubbing.
For vinyl, use a gentle cleanser or mild soap; hydrogen peroxide or a diluted alkaline cleaner can help with stubborn stains without causing discoloration.
For faux fur or microfiber, lightly apply diluted dish soap with a damp sponge. Always test the cleaning agent on a hidden area first.
A steam cleaner can be a good option for deep cleaning, but check the manufacturer's instructions to ensure it's safe for the fabric.
Rinse and Blot Dry
After applying the cleaning agent to the ottoman or pouf, thoroughly rinse the fabric with clean water to remove any remaining soap. This is important to avoid attracting more dirt or harming the fabric. Ensure all soap is removed to preserve the material's condition and look.
To rinse, use a wrung-out, damp cloth or sponge and gently dab the cleaned area to lift the soap without soaking the fabric. Frequently rinse the cloth or sponge with clean water to keep it clean.
Next, blot the area with a soft, damp cloth to absorb any extra moisture, which helps prevent issues like mold or mildew. Then, use a dry cloth to blot the fabric and remove as much moisture as possible, aiding in faster drying.
Deodorize and Refresh
To deodorize and freshen a cotton ottoman, sprinkle baking soda on it, leave it for 15-20 minutes, then vacuum it off. Baking soda is safe for fabric and good for regular use.
For vinyl ottomans, mix baking soda with lukewarm water to form a paste. Apply with a soft brush to deodorize and remove stains. Clean off the paste with a cloth and lukewarm water with mild liquid soap.
Use a dry cleaning solvent on wool ottomans to deodorize. Blot stains with a damp cloth or sponge to refresh the fabric.
Regularly brush faux fur ottomans to remove debris and prevent odors.
To keep a pouf fresh, place baking soda or odor-absorbing charcoal inside. For disinfecting, test rubbing alcohol or nail polish remover on a hidden area before applying to visible parts.
Maintain Regular Cleaning Schedule
Establish a cleaning routine for your ottoman or pouf to ensure its durability and visual appeal. Regular cleaning is crucial to prevent bacteria and allergen accumulation. Decide how often to clean based on how frequently the item is used and its exposure to dirt.
Use a vacuum with an upholstery attachment to eliminate debris and immediately blot any spills to avoid stains. Vacuum the surface periodically to maintain fabric condition.
Follow the manufacturer's instructions and select appropriate cleaners for the material to avoid damage. For thorough cleaning, especially for delicate or high-quality fabrics, consider hiring a professional.
Clean systematically from top to bottom to cover all areas. A consistent cleaning schedule will keep your ottoman or pouf clean and an attractive part of your home.
