Keeping your Ashley Furniture clean is essential to maintaining its appearance and longevity. Whether you have upholstered chairs, wooden tables, or leather sofas, regular cleaning ensures your furniture stays in excellent condition for years to come. This guide will provide simple and effective tips for how to clean ashley furniture, helping you preserve its quality and enjoy its beauty in your home.
The Importance of Proper Cleaning
Proper cleaning is crucial for preserving the quality and lifespan of your Ashley Furniture. Dust, dirt, and spills can accumulate over time, leading to stains, discoloration, and wear if not addressed promptly. Regular maintenance not only keeps your furniture looking its best but also prevents damage to materials such as wood, fabric, or leather. By using the correct cleaning techniques and products, you can avoid causing unintentional harm and ensure your furniture remains a centerpiece in your home. Taking the time to clean and care for your furniture protects your investment and enhances the comfort and aesthetic of your living spaces.
Tools and Materials Needed
To effectively care for and maintain your furniture, having the right tools and materials is essential. Here are some commonly used items:
- Soft Microfiber Cloths: Ideal for dusting and gentle cleaning without scratching surfaces.
- Vacuum Cleaner With Attachments: Perfect for removing debris from upholstery and corners.
- Wood Polish or Wax: Helps to preserve and enhance the appearance of wooden furniture.
- Furniture Cleaner: Choose a cleaner suitable for the material, such as leather conditioner or a fabric-safe solution.
- Brushes: Soft-bristled brushes can help reach into grooves or textured surfaces.
- Protective Gloves: To safeguard your hands from harsh cleaning agents.
- Plastic or Fabric Covers: Useful for protecting furniture during long periods of non-use or while performing maintenance.
Having these tools and materials readily accessible makes it easier to maintain your furniture and extend its longevity.
10 Methods How to Clean Ashley Furniture
1. Identify the Material Before Cleaning
Before applying any cleaning method, it is critical to determine the material composition of your Ashley Furniture. Use the manufacturer tag or care guide that often comes attached under cushions, inside drawers, or along seams.
This tag will provide important cleaning codes like “W” for water-based cleaners, “S” for solvent-based, “WS” for either, and “X” for vacuum only. These codes guide how safely a piece can be cleaned without causing damage. Skipping this step may result in permanent staining or fading due to the use of inappropriate cleaning agents.
2. Use a Vacuum with Attachments for Fabric Upholstery
For fabric-upholstered Ashley Furniture like sofas and sectionals, start your cleaning routine by vacuuming with a brush or upholstery attachment. This helps lift dust, pet hair, and crumbs that settle into the fabric weave.
Pay special attention to seams, creases, and the space beneath cushions. Vacuuming weekly helps prevent abrasive dirt particles from damaging the fibers and keeps your furniture looking fresh. If your piece includes removable covers, check to see if they’re machine-washable according to the care label before laundering.
3. Spot Clean Fabric with a Mild Soap Solution
For localized spills and stains on Ashley fabric furniture, prepare a gentle cleaning solution with a teaspoon of mild dish soap diluted in warm water. Use a clean white cloth (to avoid dye transfer) to dab the soapy solution onto the stain—never rub, as that can push the stain deeper.
After blotting the area, use another damp cloth to remove soap residue. Let the fabric air dry completely. For tougher stains, consider an upholstery cleaner approved for use with your specific cleaning code.
4. Clean Faux Leather with Vinegar and Water
Ashley Furniture often features faux leather for its affordability and ease of maintenance. To clean it, mix equal parts white vinegar and warm water in a spray bottle. Lightly mist the surface, then wipe with a microfiber cloth. This solution removes dirt and body oils while preserving the material’s texture.
Avoid using harsh commercial leather cleaners or bleach, which can cause peeling or drying. For conditioning, a small dab of olive oil can be applied and buffed in, though only occasionally to avoid residue build-up.
5. Treat Real Leather with a Specialized Cleaner
If you own real leather Ashley pieces, such as club chairs or recliners, use a leather cleaner and conditioner formulated specifically for genuine leather. First, dust the surface using a dry cloth, then apply the cleaner in gentle circular motions.
Once cleaned, apply a leather conditioner to maintain suppleness and prevent cracking. Avoid placing leather furniture in direct sunlight or near heating vents, as this can dry out the leather. Monthly conditioning keeps the leather soft, and any spills should be cleaned up immediately to avoid staining.
6. Polish and Dust Wood Surfaces Regularly
Ashley’s wooden furniture collections, from dining tables to entertainment centers, benefit from regular dusting and occasional polishing. Use a dry microfiber cloth for daily dust removal, and once a week, apply a wood polish or a solution of equal parts olive oil and vinegar.
Wipe in the direction of the wood grain to avoid streaks. Avoid water or overly wet cloths, as moisture can warp or stain wood. For sticky messes or ring marks, try a paste of baking soda and water applied with a soft cloth, gently rubbing until the blemish disappears.
7. Remove Water Stains from Engineered Wood Carefully
Some Ashley Furniture pieces are made of engineered woods like MDF or veneer. These materials should never be soaked or exposed to standing water. For light water rings or stains, you can place a cloth over the stain and apply a warm (not hot) iron for a few seconds.
The heat may draw out the moisture from the wood surface. Always test in an inconspicuous spot first, and follow with a gentle polish to restore sheen. Avoid abrasive pads or commercial cleaners not designed for engineered surfaces.
8. Clean Glass or Mirrored Furniture with Ammonia-Free Cleaner
Ashley’s accent tables or vanities often feature glass or mirrored panels. To keep them gleaming, use an ammonia-free glass cleaner sprayed onto a microfiber cloth rather than directly on the surface (to avoid overspray damaging surrounding materials).
Wipe in circular motions and buff to a streak-free shine. Avoid paper towels which can leave lint or fine scratches. For tough spots like dried food or makeup, dampen a cloth with warm water and gently rub before applying the cleaner.
9. Sanitize High-Touch Areas Gently
During flu seasons or in shared households, it’s important to sanitize frequently-touched furniture surfaces like armrests, drawer pulls, and tabletop edges. Use disinfecting wipes or a cloth dampened with a solution of 70% isopropyl alcohol diluted with water.
Gently wipe the surfaces, ensuring no liquid pools or runs into seams. Always follow with a dry cloth. This method is safe for most materials but avoid alcohol-based cleaners on leather or painted finishes, as they may dull or damage the surface.
10. Maintain a Regular Cleaning Schedule
Prevention is just as crucial as cleaning itself. Maintaining a weekly or bi-weekly cleaning schedule ensures that dirt, dust, and oils do not accumulate to the point of damage. Rotate cushions periodically to distribute wear evenly, and use throws or covers in high-traffic areas to reduce direct contact with the fabric or leather.
If your home includes pets or small children, consider using washable slipcovers on fabric sofas and protective coasters on tables. Proper care habits extend the life of your Ashley Furniture and help maintain its showroom-worthy appearance.
Things to Consider When Choosing Ashley Furniture
When selecting Ashley Furniture for your home, several factors should be taken into account to ensure you make the best choice for your space and needs. First, consider the size and layout of your room to determine what type of furniture will fit comfortably without overcrowding.
Measure the dimensions of the space and cross-check with the furniture’s specifications. Next, think about the primary use and functionality of the furniture. Are you looking for a durable sofa for a busy family room, or a stylish statement piece for a formal area? Additionally, take into account your preferred style and color palette to ensure the furniture complements your existing décor.
Finally, assess the materials and their maintenance requirements to determine what best suits your lifestyle. For example, leather may be ideal for easy cleaning, while fabric may offer more variety in design and comfort.
Conclusion
Cleaning Ashley Furniture doesn’t have to be complicated, but it does require an informed and careful approach tailored to the materials used. By following these ten detailed methods, you can ensure that each piece—whether fabric, leather, wood, or mirrored—is cleaned effectively and preserved for the long haul. With a little consistency and the right techniques, your furniture will continue to reflect your home’s comfort and style for many years. Now that you know how to clean ashley furniture, try it yourself today and feel good about completing such a big DIY job!