A seat cushion might still be cleaned, even if it is not machine washable. The type of cleaning depends upon the nature of this problem: Pet hair, dander and dust require vacuuming to remove the debris and smells, while stains may require more special therapies.
Dust, Dirt and Pet Dander
Cushions, no matter what they’re made of, attract dust and debris over time. If pets reveal your house, stray pet dander and hair might be present also. Vacuum seat cushions using an upholstery-brush attachment to help loosen debris that clings to the pillow. Use a small brush with nonabrasive bristles, including a toothbrush, to loosen debris stuck in crevices and seams as you vacuum whether the upholstery brush doesn’t do the trick. For general pet-hair elimination whenever you don’t feel like dragging out the vacuum cleaner, then wipe the pillow with your hand while wearing a rubber glove. The glove gathers pet hairs and lifts them in the cloth.
Spill and Spot Maintenance
Spills happen, finally, no matter how careful you’re. Blot a spilled liquid to prevent it from soaking to a textile-based cushion, or from rolling onto other areas to get a leather or synthetic leather pillow. Use paper towels or white, soft cloths when blotting, otherwise the wax in the spill may transfer to the pillow. For spills of food items like chocolate sauce or spaghetti, grab as much of this material as possible with paper towels, wiping toward the center of the spill to prevent it from spreading. Blot the place afterwards. Blot spills like ketchup or mustard with a vinegar-soaked white fabric to help prevent or remove stains. Vinegar also helps remove pet odors and stains. Clean different types of spills by blotting them using a little bit of dish soap on a damp white cloth. Follow up with a brand new moist, white cloth, wiping from the outside the spill area toward the center.
All-Over Cleaner
A thorough, all-over cleaning is useful to get a seat that is often utilized, or when it has not been cleaned in years. Make your own cushion cleaner by mixing 1 part liquid dish or laundry soap using 4 parts water, then whipping the mix into a foam using a hand mixer or whisk. Apply the suds — perhaps not the fluid — to the pillow surface after initial testing it in an inconspicuous location. Rub the suds lightly over the textile-based cushion using a soft-bristled brush, then scoop the suds off using a rubber scraper. Wipe the pillow down with a soft and moist white cloth afterwards, then air dry it. Await the pillow to dry completely before placing it back on the seat.
Odor Removal
Sometimes, it’s the odor of the pillow which requires a little cleaning or freshening. Sprinkle baking soda over the pillow, then vacuum the baking soda away. If it still smells, then employ more baking soda and allow the cushion rest outside for a few hours on a non-humid moment. A light spritz of vinegar or equal parts vinegar and water also helps remove odors. Test an inconspicuous area first to be sure the fluid doesn’t discolor the pillow.