Keeping your office chair clean not only helps maintain its appearance but can also extend its lifespan. However, many of us are unsure about the best ways to tackle this task. Whether your chair is made of mesh, fabric, vinyl, or leather, each material requires a different cleaning method. In this blog post, we will guide you through simple, effective methods to clean your office chair and keep it looking as good as new for years to come. If your chair comes with cleaning instructions, READ THEM! Otherwise Let’s dive in!
How to clean an office mesh chair
Mesh chairs are the easiest to clean because the material used could be one or a combination of polyester, CoPolyester, elastomeric, thermoplastic polyurethane, PET (polyethylene terephthalate), and nylon which in essence they are all plastics. Some mesh chairs are copper infused to gain the properties of biocidal and self-sanitizing like the Onda Mesh Chair.
For effective cleaning of your mesh office chair, it is crucial to promptly remove any stains or dirt spots. Our tests have shown that immediate stain removal results in a completely clean mesh. On the other hand, allowing stains or dirt to set over time can make the cleaning process more challenging. Although most mesh textiles naturally resist moisture, substances can still penetrate the surface and become trapped within the weave structure, making them harder to remove. The good news is mesh fabrics respond exceptionally well to various cleaning agents, including soap and water, Formula 409®, Carbona® Pet Stain Remover, and a solution made of 50% alcohol and a solution made of 1/10 bleach and 9/10 water.
For general stains that result from everyday use, a damp cloth might do just the trick. Otherwise mix a few drops of dish soap and rub gently until the stains are removed. For tougher stains use mild soap and water or Carbona Pet Stain Remover and let it sit for 2 minutes and gently rub with a sponge or brush to remove the stain. Blot excess cleaner with a dry cloth and repeat as needed.
How to clean a fabric office chair
Fabric office chairs come in a variety of materials, including cotton, polyester, wool, and blends of these fibers. The diversity of fabric types significantly adds to their aesthetic appeal; however, fabric upholstery also makes their cleaning process the most challenging amongst office chairs. The porous nature of fabric can trap dirt and odors, while its delicate nature can get easily damaged if not handled carefully during the cleaning process. Stains on fabric chairs, if not addressed promptly, can seep deeper into the fibers, making them harder to remove.
When it comes to cleaning a fabric office chair, it’s crucial to understand that different fabric types require different cleaning methods. Always check the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions, if available, before proceeding and always use water-soluble solvents such as dish soap.
To remove small, moist stains, such as coffee, soda, and some salad dressings, follow these instructions:
1) Combine one part detergent with three parts water to make a cleaning solution (one tbsp. of detergent with three tbsp. of water.
2) Moisten a soft sponge or cleaning rag with the solution
3) Wet the area with the sponge and wipe it gently and thoroughly to remove the stain
To remove larger and substance-based stains such as ketchup, mustard, salad dressing, etc. follow these instructions:
1) Remove the excess substance with a coin or piece of paper to scrape and lift the substance off. Do not press down or smear!
2) First try using a few drops of dish soap with 4 oz of cold water and fully mix the solution.
3) Using a toothbrush, dip it in the solution and brush gently in circles.
4) Use a clean cloth to blot and dry the area. Repeat one more time if needed.
5) If traces of the stain remain, apply hydrogen peroxide to a clean cloth and blot the stain.
How to clean a vinyl office chair
Vinyl office chairs typically offer the advantage of being highly resistant to stains, thanks to the non-porous nature of vinyl. This characteristic makes them a preferred choice for many offices, especially those with high foot traffic or where spills are a common occurrence such as hospitals, airports, and nursing homes. The inherent stain resistance of vinyl does not, however, eliminate the need for regular cleaning. Let’s explore how to maintain the sleek appearance of your vinyl office chair.
To clean a vinyl office chair, follow these steps:
1) Gather your cleaning supplies. This will include mild dish soap, warm water, a soft cloth, and a towel.
2) Create your cleaning solution. Mix a few drops of dish soap with warm water in a bucket.
3) Dip the cloth into the solution. Make sure your cloth is damp, not soaking wet.
4) Wipe down the chair. Starting at the top and working your way down, clean the chair using a circular motion. Be sure to clean all areas, including the back and underneath the chair.
5) Rinse the chair. With a clean, damp cloth, wipe down the chair again to remove any remaining soap residue.
6) Dry the chair. Pat down the chair with a dry towel, or allow it to air dry. You can use a hair dryer to speed up the process.
For stubborn stains, you can create a paste with baking soda and water. Apply the paste to the stain, let it sit for a few minutes, then scrub gently with a soft cloth. Rinse and dry as directed above. Always test a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure the cleaner will not discolor the vinyl. Remember that prevention is the best cure. Regular cleaning can help prevent stains and keep your vinyl office chair looking its best.
How to clean a leather office chair
The elegance of leather office chairs adds a touch of class to any workspace, but maintaining its lustrous appeal requires specific care. Leather, being natural and porous, can accumulate dirt or absorb spills if not promptly addressed. However, to maintain the longevity and aesthetics of your leather office chair, follow our simple yet effective cleaning guide.
To clean a leather office chair, follow these steps:
1) Gather your cleaning supplies. You will need a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment, a mild leather cleaner, a soft cloth, and a leather conditioner.
2) Remove loose dust and dirt. Use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to remove any loose dust and dirt from the chair. Pay special attention to crevices and seams where dirt can easily accumulate.
3) Apply leather cleaner. Dampen a soft cloth with a mild leather cleaner. Following the cleaner’s instructions, gently wipe the entire surface of the chair. Avoid any abrasive scrubbing as it can damage the leather.
4) Wipe away the cleaner. Use a clean, dry cloth to remove any residual cleaner from the chair. Make sure to thoroughly dry the chair to prevent water stains.
5) Apply leather conditioner. After cleaning, condition your chair with a good quality leather conditioner to restore moisture and maintain the leather’s softness and durability. Apply the conditioner as per the manufacturer’s instructions.
6) Dry and polish. Allow the chair to dry naturally in a well-ventilated area. Once it’s completely dry, buff it with a clean, dry cloth to bring back its shine.
Remember, always do a patch test in an inconspicuous area when using a new cleaner or conditioner. Regular cleaning and conditioning can help maintain the elegant look of your leather office chair and extend its lifespan.
As a final note, regularly vacuum your upholstered furniture to keep it looking in good and make sure stains or odors don’t accumulate. Most office chairs are meant to last for a long time as long as you take good care of them. If you need to do a deep cleaning and you are using a cleaning agent, do a spot test to make sure it is not going to ruin the textile.
I hope you liked our guide on how to clean an office chair depending on the textile!