Cleaning loose upholstery covers

"If loose fabric covers are manufactured correctly, hopefully, all will be well. The reality is, however, that items are not always made to the highest standards and outcomes can be disastrous. So, in order to protect your investment in your home check these points before going ahead.

"Firstly, and most importantly, the fabric should already be flame retardant to comply with current legal requirements or they should be fitted over a flame retardant interliner.

"Secondly, the fabric that has been used to make the covers should have been pre-shrunk before making to prevent any shrinkage at the point of cleaning. Shrinkage can occur to the extent that the covers will no longer fit the cushions or furniture bases.

"Thirdly, if the covers are piped with a piping cord that is not pre-shrunk then there is s risk of this contracting and the result can be a puckered or gathered appearance and a poor fit to the cushions or furniture bases.

"Lastly, as always, remember that about 90% of quality soft furnishing fabrics are designated by their manufacturers as 'Dry Clean Only'. Therefore, it is essential to find a specialist soft furnishing cleaner to carry out any cleaning works for you. It is important to find a long established and trusted company to do the job properly."