Deep Cleaning a Recliners Chair

With hygiene more important than ever, we thought it would be a good time for a reminder on how to clean your Recliners chair. One of the many consequences of Covid-19 is that we are all paying closer attention to hygiene and cleanliness in general, washing our hands far more frequently and being generally much more aware of the things we touch. For people using healthcare chairs, maintaining the cleanliness of the upholstery is of utmost importance. This is especially the case if a chair is used by more than one person, as can be the case in a healthcare setting. However, keeping your Recliners chair clean is not too hard, and with regular cleaning you will benefit not just your hygiene, but the life of the chair as well. Here are some tips on how to give your healthcare chair a deep clean.

Choose the right upholstery

Maintaining a hygienic chair actually starts before you’ve even sat down. Not all upholsteries are made equal, with some materials far more likely to absorb and retain bacteria than others. If possible, look to choose a chair with a good quality, anti-bacterial upholstery. Our models use some of the latest technology in upholstering, with anti-fungal and anti-bacterial materials and easily washable and removable covers.

Different upholstery types

It is important to be aware that depending on the type of upholstery your chair is finished with, a different method of cleaning will be required. Though we have a range of fabrics available, our upholstery materials generally fall into two categories: soft and vinyl. Vinyl is naturally more resistant, and therefore more popular in our healthcare range, while the soft upholstery is popular for single occupant chairs such as in our homecare range.

Step 1 – Vacuum

Whatever material your Recliner chair is made from, start by giving it a thorough clean with a vacuum to remove all loose dirt. Use an attachment with a soft brush to avoid scraping the material. Lift all the cushions and get into the cracks of the chair, and be sure to run the vacuum over the cushions as well. A small, hand held vacuum is the most suitable tool for this,

Step 2 – Deep Cleaning

Soft Upholstery

If your Recliner is made from soft upholstery, then purchase an appropriate upholstery cleaner, and spray onto all the fabric. You will usually be instructed to let this settle into the material for a short time. Next, use a brush to work the cleaner in to the fabric, then a damp cloth to wipe down the surface. If there is any residue or water, use a soft towel to soak this up. Leave the chair to dry for a period of six to twelve hours before using again.

Vinyl

As vinyl is more water resistant, it can tolerate being cleaned with water and soap. Fill a bucket with warm water and mild detergent, then wet your cloth and wring it out until it is nearly dry. Gently wipe down the surface of the chair, paying extra attention to any ‘high use’ areas such as the arm rests and back supports. Use paper towels to wipe down the chair and absorb any excess water. You may want to give the chair a final wipe down with some antibacterial spray and a dry, microfiber cloth. A regular deep clean on your Recliners chair will not only maintain high hygiene standards, but will prolong the life of your chair. If you have any questions regarding the specific upholstery of your Recliners chair, and how best to clean it, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.