Glossary of Upholstery Cleaning Terms & Definitions
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Glossary of Upholstery Cleaning Terms & Definitions

Whether you're a homeowner seeking to enhance the longevity of your furniture or a business owner aiming to create a welcoming environment, this glossary made by USA Clean Master cleaning specialists is designed to enlighten you on the essential terms in the world of upholstery cleaning. From Absorbent to Extraction, we've curated a comprehensive list to demystify the intricacies of upholstery care. Explore this glossary to make informed decisions about the cleanliness and longevity of your beloved upholstery.

 

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

 

A

Abrasion: Wearing down or cleaning upholstery surfaces using friction, often with a gentle abrasive material.

Abrasion Resistance: The ability of upholstery fabric to withstand wear, rubbing, or friction without showing signs of damage is essential for longevity.

Air Mover: Equipment used to accelerate the drying process of upholstery after cleaning by promoting air circulation.

Anti-Allergen Treatment: A specialized cleaning process that reduces allergens in upholstery, creating a healthier environment for those with allergies.

Aqua Clean Technology: An innovative upholstery fabric technology that allows for easy stain removal using just water, making cleaning more efficient.

 

B

Bacterial Treatment: Applying cleaning agents or solutions that target and eliminate bacteria ensures a hygienic and fresh result.

Biodegradable Cleaners: Cleaning products that break down naturally over time minimize environmental impact in upholstery cleaning.

Bonded Leather: A material composed of leather fibers bonded together with a polyurethane coating requires specialized cleaning to maintain its appearance.

Bristle Brush: A tool with sturdy bristles used to agitate and lift dirt and debris from upholstery fabrics during the cleaning process.

Blocking: Improper cleaning or drying techniques often cause wrinkles or creases in upholstery fabric.

 

C

Carbonated Cleaning: A cleaning method that uses carbonated bubbles to lift dirt and stains from the upholstery for effective and quick removal.

Cleanability Code: Instructions found on upholstery tags indicating whether the fabric can be laundered and the recommended process.

Colorfastness: The ability of upholstery fabrics to retain their color without fading or bleeding during the cleaning process.

Crypton Fabric: A high-performance fabric resistant to stains, moisture, and odors, often used in upholstery, requires specific cleaning methods.

Conditioning: Application of products to maintain and enhance the softness and flexibility of upholstery materials after cleaning.

 

D

Delamination: Separation of layers in composite upholstery materials: careful cleaning is needed to prevent damage.

Dry Cleaning: A cleaning method that uses minimal water, suitable for delicate upholstery fabrics that may shrink or discolor with traditional wet cleaning.

Dye Transfer: The unwanted transfer of color from one fabric to another may occur during cleaning if precautions are not taken.

Down-Filled Upholstery: Upholstery is filled with down feathers, requiring specialized cleaning techniques to maintain its loft and comfort.

Dry Foam Cleaning: The foam encapsulates dirt for easy removal by using a foaming detergent to clean upholstery.

 

E

Eco-Friendly Cleaning: Upholstery cleaning methods that prioritize environmentally friendly products and practices for a sustainable approach.

Electrostatic Cleaning: A cleaning method that uses charged particles to attract and remove dirt and allergens from upholstery surfaces.

Enzyme Cleaners: Cleaning solutions that use enzymes to break down and remove organic stains and odors from upholstery.

Embossing: Creating a raised pattern or design on upholstery fabric requires careful cleaning to maintain the integrity of the embossed features.

Environmental Impact: I am considering the ecological consequences of cleaning products and methods used in upholstery cleaning.

 

F

Fabric Protector: A treatment applied to upholstery to create a protective barrier against stains and spills, extending the life of the fabric.

Filtration Soiling: Dark lines or streaks that develop along upholstery edges due to airborne pollutants require specialized cleaning techniques.

Foam Cleaning: A method using a foaming detergent to clean upholstery, the foam encapsulates dirt for easy removal.

Fiber Content: Understanding the composition of upholstery fabric fibers is crucial for selecting appropriate cleaning methods and products.

Filtration Cleaning: Specialized cleaning techniques designed to remove soil and stains caused by air circulation around the edges of furniture.

 

G

Gentle Cleaning: A cleaning approach that uses mild products and techniques to protect delicate upholstery fabrics from damage.

Grease Stain Removal: Techniques and products explicitly designed to remove grease and oil stains from upholstery surfaces.

Green Cleaning: Upholstery cleaning practices that prioritize environmentally friendly and non-toxic cleaning solutions.

Grout Brush: A brush with stiff bristles is used for agitating and cleaning seams and hard-to-reach areas in upholstery.

Glycol Ether Cleaners: Cleaning solutions that use glycol ethers as the primary solvent are effective for various upholstery fabrics.

 

H

Heat Transfer Stains: Stains caused by heat, often from hot objects placed on upholstery, require specific cleaning methods for removal.

High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) Filtration: Using HEPA filters in cleaning equipment to capture small particles and allergens during the upholstery cleaning process.

Hot Water Extraction: A deep cleaning method uses hot water and cleaning agents to extract dirt and contaminants from upholstery.

Hydrogen Peroxide Solution: A mild cleaning agent effectively removes specific stains from upholstery without causing discoloration.

Humidity Control: Managing the humidity in the cleaning environment prevents over-wetting and promotes faster drying of upholstery.

 

I

In-Plant Cleaning: I am cleaning upholstery at a dedicated cleaning facility rather than on-site, allowing for more controlled conditions.

Ink Stain Removal: Techniques and products specifically designed to remove ink stains from upholstery fabrics safely.

Interior Design Consultation: Additional service offering advice on upholstery choices and maintenance for a cohesive and stylish interior.

Ionic Cleaning: A cleaning method uses ions to attract and remove dirt particles from upholstery surfaces.

Iodine Stain Removal: Techniques and products specifically designed to remove iodine stains from upholstery.

 

J

Jacquard Fabric: Elaborate woven patterns on upholstery fabric, necessitating specialized cleaning methods used by professional cleaning experts to preserve the intricate design.

Juice Stain Removal: Techniques and products tailored to remove juice stains from upholstery effectively.

Jute Backing: The backing material is often found on the underside of upholstery and requires careful cleaning to prevent damage. They are usually used by professional cleaning company experts.

Jute Webbing: A webbing material often used in upholstery construction requires careful cleaning to prevent damage.

Jet Extraction: A method of applying cleaning solutions and immediately extracting them from upholstery, reducing drying time.

 

K

Kilim Upholstery: Upholstery with a flat-woven, tapestry-like appearance needs careful cleaning to preserve its unique design.

Knot Sealing: Treatment to secure and protect knots in upholstery materials, preventing unraveling and ensuring longevity.

Kierig Method: A specialized delicate or antique upholstery cleaning method combines dry and wet cleaning techniques.

Knot Sealer: A product applied to secure and protect knots in upholstery fabrics, preventing fraying.

Knit Fabrics: Upholstery fabrics are made through knitting, requiring gentle cleaning to maintain their structure.

 

L

Leather Cleaning: We have specialized techniques and products for cleaning and conditioning leather upholstery to maintain natural beauty.

Linen Fabric: Upholstery material is made from flax fibers, requiring delicate cleaning to prevent damage to its texture.

Lounge Chair Cleaning: Tailored commercial cleaning services specifically for lounge chairs, considering their unique shapes and materials.

Laundering Code: Instructions found on upholstery tags indicating whether the fabric can be laundered and the recommended process.

Leather Protection Cream: Applying a protective cream to leather upholstery protects against stains, spills, and UV damage.

 

M

Mattress Cleaning: Cleaning services focused on removing stains, allergens, and odors from upholstered mattresses.

Microfiber Upholstery: They have specialized cleaning methods for microfiber fabrics to maintain their softness and appearance.

Mildew Removal: Techniques to eliminate mildew and prevent its recurrence on upholstery, especially in humid environments.

Mold and Mildew Inhibitor: Products applied to upholstery to prevent the growth of mold and mildew, especially in humid environments.

Mold and Mildew Inhibitor: Techniques and products designed to eliminate mold and mildew from upholstery surfaces.

 

N

Natural Fiber Upholstery: Cleaning approaches are designed to protect and clean upholstery made from natural fibers like cotton, wool, and silk.

Nap: The direction of the fibers on upholstery; cleaning methods must consider the nap to avoid damage and ensure proper cleaning.

Non-Chlorine Bleach: A bleach alternative used for removing stains on upholstery without causing discoloration.

Neutral pH Cleaners: Cleaning solutions with a balanced pH to prevent damage to upholstery fabrics and dyes.

Nubuck Cleaning: Specialized cleaning methods for nubuck leather, a top-grain leather with a soft, velvety surface.

 

O

Odor Elimination: Techniques and products to neutralize and eliminate unpleasant odors from upholstery, leaving it fresh and clean.

Oil-Based Stain Removal: Specialized cleaning agents and methods to effectively remove oil-based stains from upholstery.

Ottoman Cleaning: Tailored cleaning services for ottomans, considering their unique shapes and often delicate fabrics.

Ozone Treatment: Application of ozone to neutralize odors and sanitize upholstery; an effective method for removing lingering smells.

Ozone Treatment: A method of using ozone to neutralize odors and sanitize upholstery, especially effective for removing lingering smells.

 

P

Pet Stain and Odor Removal: Techniques and products designed to eliminate pet stains and odors from upholstery effectively.

Polyester Upholstery: Cleaning methods specific to polyester fabrics ensure they remain vibrant and soft after cleaning.

Protector Application: Applying protective coatings to upholstery to guard against future stains and wear.

pH Testing: Testing the pH level of cleaning solutions to ensure they are within the appropriate range for the upholstery fabric.

Plastic Covering: They are protecting upholstery with plastic covers during cleaning to prevent overspray and water damage.

 

Q

Quality Assurance: Assurance of high-quality cleaning services (usually provided by services who strive to be the best cleaning company), ensuring customer satisfaction with the results.

Quick-Drying Techniques: Methods to expedite the drying process after upholstery cleaning, preventing issues like mold and mildew.

Quilted Upholstery: Upholstery with a quilted pattern; cleaning methods must preserve the integrity of the stitching.

Quality Control Inspection: A thorough inspection of cleaned upholstery to ensure that quality standards are met before completing the job.

Quick Spot Removal: Rapid response and targeted cleaning for immediate removal of fresh stains on upholstery.

 

R

Residue-Free Cleaning: Cleaning methods that leave no sticky or soapy residue on upholstery, promoting a cleaner and longer-lasting result.

Rayon Fabric: Cleaning techniques specific to rayon upholstery, ensuring it is cleaned without causing damage to its fibers.

Recliner Cleaning: Specialized cleaning services for recliners, considering their unique mechanisms and materials.

Resilience: Upholstery materials can recover their shape after compression or use; cleaning methods should preserve this quality.

Reweaving: They are repairing small damaged areas in upholstery by reweaving the fabric threads to restore their original appearance.

 

S

Steam Cleaning: A method using steam to clean and sanitize upholstery; effective for removing dirt and killing bacteria.

Sisal Upholstery: Upholstery made from sisal fibers requires careful cleaning to prevent damage to the natural texture.

Stain Pre-treatment: Applying specific treatments to stains before the overall cleaning process enhances stain removal efficacy.

Solvent-Based Cleaning: Using solvents as the primary cleaning agent is suitable for upholstery fabrics that water may damage.

Static Control: They are preventing static buildup on upholstery through anti-static treatments during the cleaning process.

 

T

Textile Identification: The type of textile used in upholstery is assessed to determine the most suitable cleaning method.

Tannin Stain Removal: Techniques and products designed to effectively remove tannin stains, often caused by coffee, tea, or wine.

Tapestry Fabric: Upholstery fabric with complex patterns and images requires careful cleaning to maintain the clarity of the design.

Teflon Fabric Protector: I am applying Teflon-based protectors to upholstery for enhanced stain resistance and easier cleaning.

Tear Repair: She was fixing small tears in upholstery fabric using appropriate methods and materials to ensure a seamless repair.

 

U

Upholstery Inspection: A thorough examination of upholstery to identify stains, damage, and the most appropriate cleaning approach.

Ultrasonic Cleaning: A method using high-frequency sound waves to clean upholstery, effective for delicate fabrics.

Underpadding Cleaning: I was cleaning the padding beneath upholstery to ensure a comprehensive and hygienic result.

Ultra-Microfiber Cloth: Use ultra-microfiber cloths for delicate wiping and drying upholstery to avoid scratches and damage.

 

V

Vacuuming: The initial step in upholstery cleaning is removing loose dirt and debris before applying cleaning agents.

Velvet Fabric: Cleaning techniques specific to velvet upholstery preserve its luxurious feel and appearance.

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs): I am choosing cleaning products with low VOCs to ensure a healthier indoor environment after upholstery cleaning.

Vapor Cleaning: Using steam vapor to clean and sanitize upholstery is effective for removing germs and allergens.

Vinyl Upholstery: Cleaning techniques specific to vinyl fabrics, ensuring they are cleaned without causing damage to their texture.

 

W

Water-Based Cleaning: Cleaning methods use water as the primary solvent for many upholstery fabrics.

Wool Upholstery: Cleaning approaches are designed to protect and clean wool upholstery without causing damage to its fibers.

Wrinkle Removal: Techniques to address and prevent wrinkles in upholstery fabrics during the cleaning process.

Waterless Cleaning: Cleaning methods that use minimal or no water are suitable for certain upholstery materials.

Water Spot Removal: Techniques and products are designed to eliminate water spots and rings on upholstery caused by spills or cleaning.

 

X

Xenon Lamp Testing: A method to assess the colorfastness of upholstery fabrics under simulated sunlight, ensuring they won't fade over time.

Xylene-Free Cleaners: I am choosing cleaning products without xylene to protect upholstery and indoor air quality.

X-Mark Spot Testing: Spot testing upholstery in an inconspicuous area with an "X" mark to ensure the cleaning solution won't cause damage.

X-Protector Felt Pads: We are placing felt pads (often labeled as "X-Protector") on furniture legs to prevent scratches and damage to upholstery during cleaning.

Xerographic Cleaning: A dry cleaning method using powders and toners for upholstery requires specialized equipment.

 

Y

Yellowing Prevention: Techniques and products used to prevent yellowing of upholstery fabrics during the cleaning process.

Yarn-Dyed Fabrics: Fabrics with dyed yarns require careful cleaning before weaving to preserve their vibrant colors.

Youthful Restoration: It is restoring the appearance and freshness of upholstery, making it look youthful and well-maintained.

Yellow Stain Removal: Techniques and products designed to address and remove yellow stains on upholstery caused by various substances.

Yardage Chart: Based on a yardage chart, calculate the fabric needed for reupholstering or repairing furniture by furniture cleaning service providers.

 

Z

Zero-Residue Cleaning: Cleaning methods that leave no residue on upholstery surfaces ensure a clean and soft finish.

Zippers and Fasteners Inspection: I am checking zippers and fasteners on upholstery for any damage or issues during the cleaning process.

Zero-VOC Cleaners: We are using cleaning products with no volatile organic compounds (VOCs) to minimize environmental impact and promote indoor air quality.

Z-Wave Cleaning: We are utilizing advanced cleaning equipment with Z-Wave technology for efficient and effective upholstery cleaning.

 
 

Upholstery cleaning glossary sum-up

Armed with this knowledge, you're better equipped to make informed choices about the care of your furniture. Our commitment to excellence extends beyond our professional services — we aim to be your partner in preserving the beauty and comfort of your living or working spaces. Feel free to reach out for further assistance or to schedule an upholstery cleaning service.

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