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To Remove Most Spots And Stains
FOLLOW THESE BASIC RULES:
While the spill is still fresh, blot (don't rub) with a clean, white, absorbent cloth. Identity the fiber content of the fabric by checking your sales tag or ask the retailer you purchased from (for example 50% cotton, 30% rayon, 20% polyester). This information is not on the law label that is attached to the item. Knowing the fiber content and nature of the spill is important to determine which type of cleaners and cleaning methods should be used.

Check fabric manufacturer's tags for cleaning care instructions. If an "S" coded fabric does not respond well to a "S" coded spot cleaning, then it may be necessary to attempt a "W" or "WS" spot cleaning with care. Our experience has shown that many "S" coded fabrics can be safely "W" or "WS" cleaned. However, always PRE-TEST the "W" or "WS" solution in a hidden area before attempting cleaning.

If there are no tags on the furniture, check your store receipt or with your furniture retailer for the fabric content and the manufacturer's recommended cleaning methods (usually available on fabric swatches or in their catalogs). Refer to the following spot removal guide to select the cleaning method recommended. (Fabri-Coate does not change the manufacturer's recommended cleaning methods.) Pretest all spot removal solutions in a hidden area of the fabric. Apply a few drops of cleaning solutions on each color of the fabric. Using a white absorbent towel, press it firmly against each color of the fabric, hold it in place for 10-15 seconds. Examine the towel for dye transfers from the fabrics. If colors have bled into white towel, then the fabric is not colorfast for that type of solution. Allow fabric to dry completely. Do not proceed with cleaning, if the pre-tested area does not dry clear, or causes any other unusual changes to the fabric.

Once you have tested all spot cleaning solutions to be used, proceed with spot cleaning. Do not over wet, and work with small amounts of solution, blotting frequently. Problems can result from using excessive amounts of solutions. BLOT, DO NOT RUB OR BRUSH. Excessive rubbing may cause distortion of the fabric texture.

Always work from the outer edge of the spot or stain toward the center. If a spot is smaller than a quarter (coin) better success will result by applying cleaner to a Q-tip or a cotton ball. Have patience, some spots respond slowly. For stubborn spots or stains call Fabri-Coate within 5 days of the staining and unsuccessful cleaning attempt.

Remember that fabric protectors are not an absolute impenetrable barrier to all stains. However, spills on fabrics treated with Fabri-Coate will clean easily and quickly if proper cleaning solutions and methods are followed. It is the responsibility of the customer to check for fabric content, use proper cleaners and methods and to pre-test before cleaning. Fabri-Coate is not responsible for any damage or yellowing of fabric caused by improper cleaning solutions or methods.

REMEMBER TO ALWAYS SCOOP OR SCRAPE UP: Gently scoop or scrape the excess spill with the blunt edge of a spoon from the outside of a spill toward the center.

BLOT UP: Press straight down with a clean white towel (never rub, rubbing may distort the fabric texture).
APPLY: Mixed solvents, detergents, enzymes, vinegar and water solutions should be applied to a clean white towel, (not printed), and this towel should be used to dampen the fabric.
RINSE To remove all cleaning solution residues from fabrics with a "W" or "SW" it is important to extract by blotting with a cloth slightly moistened with clear water.
TIP: When working on a cushion with a zipper, unzip and place a clean white towel under the spot before working on the area.

Some manufacturers have adopted the voluntary uniform standards for furniture cleanability developed by an industry committee. If used, each fabric will be marked with a code which indicates the appropriate cleaning method. The code may be printed on fabric samples, on a label under seat cushions and/or on hand tags. Use as a guide for spot removal, and for overall cleaning.

"W" - Use Water-Based Cleaner. Spot clean this fabric with the foam only of a water-based cleaning agent, "sudsless" spot cleaner such as FabriKleen, or commercial upholstery shampoo. Use sparingly. Avoid overwetting.

"S" - Use Solvent Cleaner. Spot clean this fabric with a mild water-free dry-cleaning solvent available in local stores. Use sparingly in a well-ventilated room with no sparks or flame in the room. CAUTION: Use of water-based solvent cleaners may cause spotting and/or excessive shrinking. Solvent cleaning agents will not remove water stains.

"SW" - Use Water-Based or Solvent Cleaner. Spot clean this fabric with a dry-cleaning solvent, mild detergent foam or upholstery shampoo, depending on the stain.

"X" - Vacuum Only. Clean this fabric only by vacuuming or light brushing to prevent accumulation of dust and grime. Water-based foam or solvent-based cleaning agents of any kind may cause problems with the fabric.

Making Simple Repairs to Your Wood Furniture

Minor damage to solid wood furniture can be repaired quickly and effectively with the right materials, a bit of elbow grease, and some careful attention to detail. More complex repair or refinishing jobs are best left to professionals.

First Aid For Minor Scratches And Nicks

When preparing to repair small nicks or scratches, always test a small unnoticeable area of the furniture first to make certain the mixture will not damage the furniture's finish.

FURNITURE TOUCH-UP PENS For treating light, dark and cherry wood finishes, white and black touch-up pens contain the same special formulation of dyes used by furniture manufacturers and dealers in their factories and showrooms for quick permanent touch-up and repair. Use of the touch-up pen restores color to worn edges and provides a tough, colorfast and long-lasting finish to the wood. Colors blend with most fine furniture finishes and dry to the touch in seconds.

FOR BEST RESULTS Start with the lightest pen, after successive applications color will darken, if after 2 or 3 applications color is not dark enough, move to the next darkest pen. Stroke felt tip lightly over scratch in the direction of the grain. Immediately rub briskly with soft cloth to remove excess. Replace cap tightly after use. Allow dye to set 5 minutes before polishing.

REMOVAL OF STAINS Fine wood furniture finishes demand special and careful attention today when it comes to the removal of stains. While there are many different remedies for stains, some may damage the furniture's finish. The following stains often can be treated with a Stain Remover Cloth. Pre-test in an inconspicuous area to see if it removes the stain without disturbing or damaging the finish. White Marks, Water Marks & Rings: Often, rings are in the wax, not the finish. Use Guardsman's Furniture Cleaner to clean and remove excess wax and soil. Used as directed, You may also use a Stain Remover Cloth. By rubbing the cloth with the grain of the wood spots and stains will disappear. Wipe away rings, marks, paint, polish, and cosmetic stains.

If you are not successful in removing stains with the methods and products listed above, it is best to call a professional repair person. The more complicated methods may be necessary and only the professional should perform these, so as to protect the beauty and finish of your wood furniture.

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