How to Care for Your Chenille Furniture

Chenille is extremely soft, durable, and attractive. It's made up of short, thick strands of yarn (the pile) that are woven into the back of the fabric. That's what gives it its plush feel. The pile can be made with most any type of fiber. However, it's usually made of cotton, nylon, rayon or wool. Sofas, loveseats, chaises and chairs that are covered in chenille are not only comfortable to sit on, but it's relatively easy to keep them looking beautiful. Read this informative article and find out how to care for your chenille furniture.

1. Prevent Fading and Weakening of the Fabric
To help keep the upholstery from losing its color, and protect the fabric fibers, position your chenille furniture so it's out of direct sunlight. If it is in front of a window or door, use a window treatment to block or diffuse the harmful ultraviolet light. There are several to choose from, including sun-screening drapes, blinds and blackout curtain panel liners.

2. Prevent Stains on Your Chenille Furniture
Avoid using acids, chemical-based removers, corrosive chemicals, dyes, inks, nail polish, paint, and the like near the furniture. Don't lay newspapers on the chenille upholstery either. They can stain the fabric.

3. Help Keep the Fabric Soft and Strong
Place an upholstery brush attachment on the end of your vacuum cleaner hose, and gently sweep your chenille furniture. Do this once a week to remove dirt and debris from the fibers. It will keep the fabric clean and extremely soft. It will also raise the nap.

4. Clean-Up Spills Immediately to Prevent Stains
Use a clean, white cotton towel to blot up- never rub- liquid spills on your chenille furniture as soon as they happen. Don't use water to clean a spill as it can cause the fabric to lighten. Some "spills", such as mud or candle wax, are best left to harden before they are cleaned up. Gently peel off the spill and brush away any residue.

5. Removing Stubborn Stains on Your Chenille Furniture
You may be able to remove stains with a mild cleaner foam or a dry cleaning product. Read and follow the manufacturer's care instructions in order to find out what cleaners are acceptable. Make sure the cleaner is designed for use on chenille fabric. Still, it's a good idea to test the product on a hidden area first.

Completely clean your chenille furniture, or hire professionals to do it, at least once a year to keep it in its best condition.

Resources
http://www.mwifibercare.com/faqs.html
http://www.jandofabrics.com/category-detail-description.asp?catid=86