A recliner is a very useful piece of furniture that can be used for relaxing, reading, and watching TV. However, if it’s not properly cared for or maintained then the fabric will become dirty and dingy looking.
That is why we have compiled a list of 5 steps that you should take to clean a recliner so it looks new again!
Steps on Cleaning a Recliner
What you will need: A vacuum, a bucket filled with warm water and dish soap, an upholstery attachment for your vacuum cleaner if available, dry towels or rags.
Step One) Place the recliner in its upright position so it is possible to clean both sides of the chair at once (make sure not to get any water on the floor).
Step Two) Vacuum both sides of the chair. Remove all debris and hair that you find – this will prevent it from being stuck in your recliner for a long time. A brush attachment is recommended, but if not available then use some rags or towels instead to get into those tight spots.
Step Three) Fill a bucket with warm water and dish soap (don’t use anything scented or harsh because it could damage the upholstery). Put your attachments into soapy water. Gently scrub both sides of the chair – this will help remove any stains you missed in Step Two. Rinse thoroughly when finished, and then let the chair dry for a day before using it again.
Step Four) Put down plastic or newspapers to protect your floor from water and any dirt you might track in during this process. Start by removing all cushions if they are attached to the bottom of the chair – these can get soiled fairly easily, but also make cleaning the chair much easier.
How to Make a Recliner Slipcover
Step One: Gather your supplies – you’ll need a fitted sheet, elastic bands, scissors or seam ripper, and a sewing machine. If using the latter option, then you will also require a thread that matches one of the colors in your fabric.
It’s important to double-check all measurements because this process is more time-consuming than simply buying a slipcover from a store.
Step Two: Measure your chair and divide by three to find the center of it – this is where you will make cuts in the fitted sheet.
Cut two strips on each side, one at least six inches wide (to allow for seam allowance), which are as long as your measurement is divided by six. If your measurement is 18 inches, then the strips will be three and one-half inches long.
Step Three: Fold each strip in half lengthwise to make a tube shape – this will allow you to sew them more easily later on. Thread your needle with a thread that matches one of the colors in your fabric (the other color can be used for tying off or sewing on buttons).
Step Four: Put the fitted sheet right side down over your chair. Each strip should be at one of the corners, and there will be about six inches dangling loose at each end – this is where you’ll start sewing.
The opening in the tube shape will go along the edge of your fabric, and the right side of it should be facing out.
Step Five: Sew each strip to your chair, but make sure you have enough slack on either end so that when you turn the chair over they won’t get caught in any of the parts.
As a general rule, about six inches is perfect – but see if there are metal bars or anything before you start to sew.
Step Six: Finished! Simply turn your chair over and the strips of fabric will be in the bars, making it easier for you to remove them when necessary.
How to Prevent Wear and Tear on a Recliner
#1. Check your recliner every month for loose screws and make sure the legs are in good working order. If you have a pet, then check on them regularly for any chew marks or scratches that they might have made to the fabric of the chair.
For example, if there is an exposed metal frame on one side of a leg, this s can be a problem, too – as they may chew on this until it becomes loose and causes the chair to become unstable.
#2. This is even more important if you have children who might run in and out of the room or toddlers that like to climb on furniture. You’ll want to make sure all screws are tightly in place, so kids and pets can’t loosen them.
#3. You might also want to consider buying a recliner that comes with metal legs or one made out of wood, rather than a chair with plastic feet. Also, check the position of any removable cushions on your furniture for loose threads and make sure they are securely fastened in place so they don’t get chewed on.”
#4. If the base of your furniture is made out of metal, you’ll want to make sure it’s securely fastened. There should be no wobbling or movement in any direction when you push down on one corner and then release it. This will ensure that the chair does not get knocked over easily by pets or children.