Technical Resources, Upholstery
Wool Upholstery
Dec
Wool Upholstery
Introduction
Wool is not often found in upholstery. It is a warm fabric and can be uncomfortable next to skin. When you see wool upholstery fabric, it is generally in commercial settings such a professional offices. There are a few things that you need to be careful of when cleaning wool.
- Fiber Distortion
- Damage from long-term exposure to high alkaline chemicals
- Color Loss
- Shrinkage
These problems can be avoided easily by pre-testing.
Testing Procedures
Test for shrinkage by marking a 2-inch square with straight pins. Clean the square and dry it. Measure it again. If it has shrunk, you can determine how much the fabric will shrink by calculating the percentage of shrinkage in the square. If significant shrinkage is likely to take place, you should clean with dry-cleaning solvents. Luckily, almost all wool fabrics are pre-shrunk from the mill and shrinkage is rarely a problem.
Keeping the pH of the cleaning solutions close to neutral can prevent both of the other problems (alkaline damage & color loss) This is accomplished with the procedures and formulas below.
Cleaning Procedures
Step 1 – Test for shrinkage and color loss
Step 2 – Test for cleaning effectiveness by cleaning a small area
Step 3 – Vacuum thoroughly
Step 4 – Pre-spray with Power O
Step 5 – Extract with Power Rinse
Step 6 – Protect with Stain Blocker 5:1
Step 7 – Dry quickly using Air Movers
Helpful Hint –
Boost customer satisfaction and profits by applying protector after cleaning. Cleaning of wool and other natural fabrics should be priced higher than synthetic due to the additional risk, value of the item, & expertise necessary.
Products Needed
Type: Prespray
Highlights: Preconditions fine fabrics or upholstery
Type: Conditioner/ Neutralizer
Highlights: Prevents wicking, browning and yellowing. Removes alkaline residue.
Type: Protector
Highlights: Protector that repels all types of soils
Description: High volume air mover
Purpose: Dries carpet, upholstery & structures quickly