Unfortunately, there isn’t a single method to clean a headboard because the types of material used differ, such as wooden, leather, metal, polyester, suede and many more. Please take into consideration the type of stain you want to remove because treating watermarks and ink require two completely different approaches.
Depending on how much time you have and the severity of the stain, you should also decide whether you can and want to do it yourself or whether it would be best to get it cleaned by a professional. Here is and article going into detail on how to clean a headboard and how to make homemade cleaning solutions as well.
How to clean a wooden headboard
A solid wood headboard has an elegant style which will add a touch of class to any traditional bedroom, so unless your headboard has a protective plastic coating, avoid cleaning with water or commercial cleaning products that are not specifically designed for wood – when using these, always follow the instructions on the label. Test any other cleaning method on a small, unnoticeable area first to ensure that it is suitable for your furniture.
- Target any grease or sticky spots on unsealed wood with a gentle cleaning solution of soap or mild detergent dissolved in water, using a clean, damp cloth to spot-treat the affected area.
- Once the mark has been removed, rinse carefully and wipe with a dry cloth.
Harder stains such as watermarks or alcohol spots can also be cleaned but will require a stronger solution such as polish. If your furniture has a finish, refer to the manufacturers guidelines to check which polishing products are suitable as this can vary widely.
How to clean a metal headboard
A metal headboard is traditional in style and will add a classy and sophisticated look to any bedroom interior that doesn’t need a lot of maintenance. However, they can collect dust and be affected by spills through regular use which need removing. Ashley Black Nickel Metal Headboard – https://goo.gl/M9WmKK
Use the following steps to clean your metal headboard:
- Begin by vacuuming with a soft brush to remove dust and hair;
- Wash it with a mild detergent and water solution and a super-fine steel wool pad to remove residues such as oil, grease and dirt.
- Rinse with clean water.
- Finish with a soft dry cloth polish as usual.
How to clean a velvet headboard
A velvet headboard has a sophisticated design that would suit either a traditional or contemporary styled bedroom and taking care of your velvet upholstered headboard is a must if you want to enjoy it for longer.
Use the following steps to clean stains from velvet fabric:
- If the stain is liquid, soak it up with a paper towel or a dry cloth;
- Make a mix of mild detergent and water and use the sudsy foam to blot the stain gently;
- Mix lemon juice with baking soda to create a foamy texture;
- Use straight movements and go with the grain and never rub;
- Blot out with a dry cloth. You could also use a hairdryer on a low heat to dry the area faster.
How to clean a faux suede headboard
Faux suede headboard – a soft fabric with open-texture, is the perfect contemporary headboard for your bedroom. Here is how to easily clean your faux suede headboard:
- Use the upholstery brush of your vacuum cleaner to remove any dust, debris and hair in a circular motion.
- Mix water with a mild detergent into a bucket and agitate the water to create suds;
- Use a cloth to apply only the suds to the suede headboard and blot the stain gently, repeat the process if needed;
- When done, use a dry cloth to blot dry the area.
How to clean a fabric headboard
Upholstered fabric headboards add luxury and comfort to our beds and we need to look after them from time to time.
To clean fabric headboards, do the following:
- Vacuum thoroughly to remove any dust;
- Treat any fresh stains with a dry cloth by blotting, not rubbing;
- Clean carefully with a mild soap, water and a cloth;
- Steam clean if your vacuum cleaner has that feature;
- Open windows and doors until the headboard is fully dry so that mold doesn’t set in.
How to clean a leather headboard
A genuine leather headboard is fantastic and has an authentic look and feel so before you begin, check the manufacturer’s label for any details about how it should be cleaned. Still, the common method to clean a leather upholstered headboard is:
- Begin by vacuuming the leather with a soft brush to remove dust and hair;
- To remove dirt and grime, use a moisturizing soap and a little water to wash the area. Make sure the cloth is slightly damp, not drenched, so you don’t over wet the surface;
- Mix a 50/50 solution of white vinegar and distilled water and gently scrub the surface;
- In the end, buff the leather with a soft dry cloth and polish as usual.
Tips and tricks
You can prolong your headboard life by maintaining it properly and treating any stains the right way.
- Treat stains as soon as possible.
- Add an extra layer of protection using slipcover
- Dust and steam clean on regular basis.
- Try placing a pillow between you and the headboard to increase its lifespan.
