Marberry Cleaners Shares Expert Tips for Upholstery & Cushion Care During Summer Heat

St. Charles, IL — As temperatures rise and summer sunlight intensifies, Marberry Cleaners and Launderers is reminding homeowners that caring for upholstery and cushion covers goes beyond the outdoors. Indoor fabrics face their own challenges in the summer months, from fading and musty odors to stains and general wear. To help customers keep their furniture looking and feeling fresh, Marberry Cleaners has released a comprehensive guide to summer upholstery care.

While summer heat can’t be avoided, its effects on furniture can be minimized through smart care and timely maintenance. The company’s experts share simple, effective steps every homeowner can take to extend the life of their upholstery and maintain its appearance all season long.

Give Fabrics Room to Breathe

Trapped heat and moisture can lead to musty odors, weakened fabric fibers, and even mildew. Marberry Cleaners emphasizes that proper air circulation is key to keeping furniture fresher, longer. Allowing space around furnishings ensures better ventilation and helps prevent moisture buildup.

Key Things to Remember

Pull furniture away from walls by at least 2–3 inches to encourage airflow.
Avoid stacking cushions tightly in storage; leave gaps for ventilation.
Use ceiling or floor fans to keep air circulating in seating areas.
Keep vents unobstructed so airflow isn’t blocked by furniture or décor.

Spot-clean Before Stains Set

The summer heat can cause stains to “set” faster, especially when combined with sunlight or warm air. Marberry Cleaners recommends immediate action to treat spills—from coffee drips to BBQ sauce smudges or sunscreen marks—before they become permanent.

How to Spot-clean Effectively

Blot, don’t rub: Use a clean, dry microfiber cloth to lift liquid gently.
Mix a mild cleaner: Combine a few drops of dishwashing liquid with warm water.
Test first: Always test the cleaner on a hidden spot to avoid damage.
Apply gently: Work from the outside of the stain inward to prevent spreading.
Dry thoroughly: Use a towel or fan to remove moisture completely.

Keep a Summer-friendly Fabric Spray on Hand

Odors tend to build up more quickly during the warmer months. A light misting with a safe, fabric-friendly spray can refresh upholstery while reducing bacteria growth. Marberry Cleaners recommends a DIY or commercial spray for a quick and easy refresh between deep cleans.

Make or Choose the Right Spray

DIY mix: Combine 1 cup of water, 1 tablespoon of vinegar, and 5 drops of essential oil (lavender, lemon, or eucalyptus).
Lightly mist upholstery from about 12 inches away—avoid soaking the fabric.
Steer clear of harsh chemicals like bleach or ammonia that can cause discoloration.
Store sprays in a cool, dry place to maintain their scent and effectiveness.

Vacuum Between Cushions Weekly

Heat and humidity can intensify odors, especially when crumbs, pet hair, or dust are trapped between cushions. Marberry Cleaners advises homeowners to vacuum between and under cushions weekly to cut down on debris that causes smells and premature wear.

Expert Tips for Upholstery Vacuuming

Remove cushions when possible to access hidden areas.
Use an upholstery brush attachment to loosen dirt safely.
Switch to a crevice tool for tight seams and corners.
Work slowly for thorough cleaning.
Check vacuum filters regularly to maintain strong suction.

Protect Against Sun Fading

Direct sunlight is one of the biggest culprits behind faded fabrics and weakened fibers. Longer summer days mean greater exposure to UV rays, and even high-quality fabrics aren’t immune. Marberry Cleaners highlights the importance of sun protection to maintain upholstery vibrancy.

Ways to Reduce Sun Damage

Close blinds or curtains during peak sunlight hours.
Use sheer panels to filter light while keeping spaces bright.
Rearrange furniture periodically to distribute exposure evenly.
Consider UV-protective window film in high-exposure areas.

Rotate and Fluff for Even Wear

Rotating and fluffing cushions is another effective way to maintain their shape and appearance. This simple habit helps distribute body oils and moisture evenly across the fabric, reducing premature wear in any one spot.

Rotation and Fluffing Guide

Turn cushions weekly; switch positions if they’re reversible.
Fluff by hand to evenly redistribute filling.
Pat corners to keep shapes crisp.
Alternate seat cushions between high-use and low-use areas.

Keep Humidity Under Control

High humidity is a common summer challenge that can damage upholstery. Moisture trapped in fabric can lead to mold, mildew, and musty odors. Maintaining a balanced indoor humidity level is essential for both fabric health and household comfort.

Ways to Reduce Humidity Around Upholstery

Run a dehumidifier in areas with poor airflow.
Use ceiling fans to keep air moving.
Close windows during high-humidity days.
Check for hidden dampness under and behind cushions regularly.

Quick Tip: Aim for 40–50% indoor humidity—low enough to prevent mold but high enough for comfort.

Schedule Eco-Friendly Upholstery & Cushion Cleaning with Marberry

Indoor upholstery and cushion covers naturally absorb humidity, body oils, and everyday dust, which can cause odors, fading, and long-term wear. Marberry Cleaners reminds homeowners that they don’t have to tackle these challenges alone.

For decades, Marberry Cleaners and Launderers has helped Illinois families preserve and refresh their home essentials using eco-friendly, fabric-safe cleaning methods. Their deep-cleaning process penetrates fibers gently and effectively, ensuring a renewed, long-lasting look without damage.

With convenient locations in St. Charles, Geneva, and Lombard, along with free pickup and delivery services, Marberry Cleaners makes it simple to maintain a fresh, inviting home year-round.

Their family-owned team is dedicated to helping customers keep cushions, slipcovers, and decorative fabrics looking as fresh as their favorite outfit. As summer heats up, now is the perfect time to schedule a Household Items Cleaning Service.

Call Marberry Cleaners today at 630-912-9206 to book your eco-friendly upholstery and cushion cleaning appointment.