It can take a lot of time, effort and money to invest in the perfect furnishings in your home, and it is understandable that people want to keep their furnishings in great shape. However, most furnishings serve a functional purpose in a home, and this means that they will be subject to wear and tear through regular use. Some may get nicked and scratched, and many will also be subject to stains. While nicks and scratches in wood can be filled or covered over fairly easily, the fact is that stains can be more challenging to deal with. There are different types of stains that may be on various types of furniture, and there are different strategies that can be used to remove them.
Water Stains on Wood
Ideally, coasters will be used to create a buffer between wood surfaces and wet items, such as drinking glasses with condensation. However, water stains can develop despite the best efforts, and they can be unsightly. If a water stain does develop, the area should be blotted dry with a cloth immediately. The white water stain on the wood can be removed by applying a substance that is an equal part of white toothpaste and an equal part of baking soda together. Rub this substance into the wood, and wipe it off as soon as the water stain disappears.
Dark Stains on Wood
While white water stains on wood can be problematic, dark staining is also common on wood and can be equally bothersome. There are two different strategies that can be used to deal with dark stains on woods. One option is to apply white vinegar to a clean cloth. Rub the cloth over the dark area gently to remove the stain. The other option is to use hydrogen peroxide on the stain. Apply the hydrogen peroxide to the area with a soft, clean toothbrush once a day for a week.
Set-In Stains on Upholstery
When upholstered surfaces become dirty, it is best to dry up the surface as soon as possible. Cleaning the area gently with soap and water is also typically beneficial. However, there are instances when a stain will have time to set into the upholstery. The inclination may be to scrub upholstery with soap and water to remove stubborn stains, but bear in mind that scrubbing upholstery may weaken and ultimately ruin it. It is best to gently rub the stained area. Some staining will be removed with soap and water, and others may require effort from a steam cleaner. In addition to these options, there are also special upholstery cleaners that may be applied to the stain. Some are suitable for use with different types of stains, such as ink, beverages and more.
Staining on furniture can and will happen from time to time. Understanding how to deal with stains can ultimately improve the look of the home and can also extend the life of the furniture. These tips can be applied to help remove some of the more common types of stains.