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Topic: How to clean fabric couch (Read 489 times) previous topic - next topic

How to clean fabric couch

I am the new owner of a 2009 Nimbus that has a fabric couch.  The couch is slightly soiled.  What would be the proper way to clean it? :o
Don & Sue
2009 NImbus 38
2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee toad

Re: How to clean fabric couch

Reply #1 –
Don & Sue, what is the couch upholstery?
No RV! Have hung up the keys.
In the past: 2016 Winnebago Era, 1994 Foretravel U240, 1995 Foretravel U240 (wide body), 1999 Foretravel 320, 36 Foot, 2003 Foretravel U320 38 foot,

Re: How to clean fabric couch

Reply #2 –
The upholstery is a woven fabric.  I do not know what the material is.  When I called the factory last week I talked to David and he told me that it has a flame retardant applied to it and he did not have and advice on cleaning.
Don & Sue
2009 NImbus 38
2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee toad

Re: How to clean fabric couch

Reply #3 –
Quote from: djpauls –
The upholstery is a woven fabric.  I do not know what the material is.  When I called the factory last week I talked to David and he told me that it has a flame retardant applied to it and he did not have and advice on cleaning.

Depending on what the soil is and whether it's surface or wicked-in, you might try rubbing gently with a dry microfiber cloth.  We use that method on some dry-clean-only drapes at home to remove surface soil (the drapes are at the patio door, so lots of "activity" brushes by them).
Learn every day, but especially from the experiences of others. It's cheaper!  - John C. Bogle

2000 U320 36' non-slide / WildEBeest Rescue
2003 U320

Re: How to clean fabric couch

Reply #4 –
It is going to need more than that.  it appears to be more than just a surface soiling.
Don & Sue
2009 NImbus 38
2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee toad

Re: How to clean fabric couch

Reply #5 –
I would imagine but can not be certain that the material is somewhat durable and water resistant (as mine is) and is able to be cleaned with a steam type carpet cleaner.  I have not used it on my FT couch but have on auto cloth seats and carpets (including the FT) without issue.  They sell those type of cleaners at Wally world.  I would probably recommend that you try it without cleaner (or soap).  Try to use hot water that is immediately suctioned out of the fabric after it is sprayed on the fabric.  I would go over it a couple of times with the spray water and then try to suck all of the water out with the carpet cleaner with the small attachment.  The cost of the unit is less than 200.  I have used mine on my carpet a couple of times.  The reason I like only the hot water is that if you leave in the soap, it seems to attract more dirt.  Sooo, if you have to use the cleaner to get it clean, I would recommend that you go over it at least a couple of times with the hot water only to attempt to rinse out all of the cleaner.  If you are nearby, you can borrow mine. 
Best of Travels

Re: How to clean fabric couch

Reply #6 –
Quote from: drcscruggs –
I would imagine but can not be certain that the material is somewhat durable and water resistant (as mine is) and is able to be cleaned with a steam type carpet cleaner.

I would test a small, inconspicuous area first - we had some experience with previous coach fabrics (specifically the Nysa taupey-beige used in 2003) where the flame retardant turned PINK when exposed to moisture. 

The Zulu (animal-print ivory/charcoal stripe) used that year did not have the same issue (but the charcoal design wore out quite fast).
Learn every day, but especially from the experiences of others. It's cheaper!  - John C. Bogle

2000 U320 36' non-slide / WildEBeest Rescue
2003 U320

Re: How to clean fabric couch

Reply #7 –
David at FOT did tell me that using any water would cause a stain.  Any other ideas?
Don & Sue
2009 NImbus 38
2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee toad

Re: How to clean fabric couch

Reply #8 –
Find local carpet and upholstery cleaner that has good reviews on yelp or similar , they will come out and clean it well without damaging. Done things best left to pros
Tim Fiedler    2025 LTV Unity MBL on Order
2000 Chevy Tracker 2 Door Convertible 4WD Now lifted 4.5"
1985 Citroen 2CV6 Charleston
Murphy Rebel on wheels with 175HP Titan
Cessna P337
1980 48' Westport MY (!/4 Share)

Re: How to clean fabric couch

Reply #9 –
ChemDry Professional Strength Spot Remover, purchased only from a ChemDry local franchisee distributer. We buy several cans at a time and use it on all things fabric. About $10 spray can.