The special technology
that created Novasuede allows for easy care and cleaning.
Since liquid spills tend to "bead up" on the surface,
often all that is needed is quick action with a dry
cloth to absorb the liquid. Normal, regular vacuuming
with a soft brush attachment is recommended to remove
dust deposits, prevent soil build-up, and to keep
the suede surface looking crisp and new. Light stains
and smudge marks often can be lifted off with Scotch
tape or removed with a soft eraser.
Water soluble stains
such as coffee, tea, juice, soft drinks, milk, beer,
wine, etc. can be removed by dabbing the affected
area with clean water only, mild soapy water, or a
50/50 solution of water and white vinegar. Excessive
rubbing is not necessary. A blotting action is always
preferable to a rubbing technique for stain removal.
Remove excess soap or vinegar solution by dabbing
again with clean water and blotting with a clean cloth.
The material can be allowed to dry naturally or dried
quickly with a hair dryer using the warm setting.
"Rings" noticed after drying are usually the result
of some residual soap or cleaning solution remaining
in the fabric. Most rings can be removed by cleaning
again with water only.
For non-water soluble
stains such as grease, oil, shoe polish, etc. use
a petroleum solvent such as naphtha (lighter fluid),
mineral spirits, a powder spray such as K2R, or a
spot remover containing perchloroethylene or other
chlorinated solvent. Using a clean cloth moistened
with the solvent, dab the stained area and then blot
with a clean, dry cloth. Repeat if necessary. Work
from the edges of the stain toward the center to avoid
enlarging the stain. Surface damage and minor cigarette
burns usually can be repaired by rubbing the area
carefully with fine sandpaper.
Removable covers can
be machine washed separately using the cool or warm
water setting, delicate cycle. Use mild detergent,
no bleach. Do not pour detergent directly onto the
material. Spin and tumble dry low setting, or spin
and hang to dry in a shady area. Do not twist or wring.
Novasuede covers can also be professionally dry cleaned
using clean perchloroethylene solvent, short cycle,
tumble dry warm, steam only followed by brushing to
restore nap.
To clean widespread dirt
or overall cleaning of upholstered pieces, a wet extraction
process is recommended, available through most professional
cleaning services.
Although Novasuede is
spill resistant, supplementary treatments such as
Scotchguard can be used. Preliminary sample treatment
is necessary to ensure that the hand, texture, or
color of the material will not be affected.
After any method of cleaning,
it is important to restore the nap by light brushing
with a soft bristle brush after the Novasuede is completely
dry. Regular routine vacuuming, immediate attention
to accidental spills, and occasional brushing is generally
all that is required to maintain the luxurious feel
and appearance of Novasuede.