No matter whether you live in an apartment or a villa in Dubai, you cannot save your home from the fine layer of fine dust, and the item that absorbs the most dust is your sofa!

Life in Dubai is beautiful due to the glitz and skyscrapers. However, behind all this shine is a challenge that every homeowner has to face, which is a dusty climate. Household items like carpets, curtains, and sofas accumulate the most dust, and it is necessary to deep clean them regularly to prevent damage and the production of bacteria. 

Importance of Sofa Cleaning in Dubai’s Climate

The desert climate of Dubai brings fine, powdery dust that gets its way into homes easily through vents and open windows, etc. This is not ordinary dust rather more abrasive and fine, having the ability to settle deep into fabric fibres. Some points are given below to emphasise the importance of sofa cleaning in Dubai’s dusty climate. 

• Discolouration: as the dust keeps on settling into the sofa’s fabric, the original colour of the sofa starts to fade away, and the texture of the fabric also starts to get damaged.  

• Respiratory Issues & Allergies: dust mites and allergens thrive in upholstery and become the primary cause of sneezing, coughing, skin irritation, and other respiratory health issues. 

• Odour Build-up: When you do not clean your sofa deeply regularly, the mixture of dust, humidity, bacteria, and body oils causes bad odours and unpleasant smells. 
• Shortened Lifespan: When dust stays in fabric fibres for a long time, it starts to act like sandpaper, and the friction created will start to wear off the fabric, thus leading to tears in the fabric and even upholstery. 

Therefore , sofa cleaning in Dubai is not only about looks but also health and hygiene. 

Expert Sofa Maintenance Schedule

There is no fixed answer to how often you should clean your sofa in Dubai’s climate, but experts have suggested a cleaning schedule that is mentioned in the section below. 

Light Dusting & Vacuuming

This is the first and foremost thing to do if you do not want that fine dust to be accumulated into your sofas. Regular vacuuming can help prevent dust buildup in sofas before it accumulates in the fabric fibres. 

 

The Process:

• It is recommended to use a vacuum with a soft brush attachment. 
• Try to reach all the hidden areas like under the cushions, armrests, cervices, and under-seat areas. 
• Leather or faux leather sofas are recommended to be wiped with a soft, microfibre cloth instead of a vacuum to wipe away fine dust. 
• Flip & Rotate Cushions occasionally to prevent wear off and to let the air pass through the fabric. 

 

Pro Tip:

Keep windows closed on windy days and run your AC on recirculate mode. 

Spot Cleaning 

A sofa is no doubt a very important piece of furniture in a household. Whether you want to enjoy a hot cup of coffee or a movie, you relax on the sofa first. Therefore, accidental spills are inevitable; moreover, pet and kids’ accidents are also a routine thing. However, quickly handling these accidents is the key to preventing long-term damage. 

The Process:

• Use a clean white cloth or paper towel to absorb the liquid. Remember to blot, not rub. 
• Always keep a homemade cleaner handy. Mix a mild detergent in water and shake well. Pour it into a spray bottle to use in times of emergency. 
• Avoid using harsh chemicals for spot cleaning as they can fade the colour and damage the fabric or leather. 

Pro Tip:

In case you are using a chemical solution, always patch test first and then apply it to the bigger area. Use conditioners for leather sofas to maintain the shine and prevent cracks. 

Deep Cleaning (Every 3-4 Months)

If you vacuum regularly, Dubai’s fine dust will find its way deep into your upholstery over time. This is the time when you need to contact a professional cleaning service. Experts at Churchill Building Cleaning suggest deep cleaning your sofas every 3-4 months. However, it should be every 2 months if your sofa is near a balcony or you use it more often.

There are two main types of deep cleaning:

Steam Cleaning (Hot Water Extraction)

• The purpose of steam cleaning is to disinfect and sanitise the sofas using hot water and gentle detergents. 
• It kills bacteria and allergens, and extracts dust that is trapped. 
• It is the ideal solution for people who have pets at home or patients with allergies. 

 

Pro Tip:

The best cleaning method for fabric sofas is a process that does not use harmful chemicals. 

 

Dry Cleaning

• This method uses minimum moisture techniques and special cleaning solvents. 
• It helps to prevent fading of colours and shrinkage of fabrics. 
• It is a great solution if you want quick drying and same-day use. 

 

Pro Tip:

Dry cleaning is the best solution for sofas with delicate fabrics or leather. 

Fabric Protection & Conditioning (Every 6 Months)

Many people often overlook this step; however, it makes a big difference in dusty climates as in Dubai. Fabric protectors create a thin and invisible layer on the sofa that helps to resist dust, stains, and spills. 

The Process:

• The fabric protector spray is available in the market. You should use it every 6 months, especially after a professional deep cleaning. 
• For leather sofas, conditioners should be used every 6 months to prevent cracks, as the conditioner keeps the surface smooth and soft. 

Extra Maintenance Tips for Homes in Dubai

1. Use of an air purifier can help reduce dust circulation in the indoor air and keep the sofas clean longer. 
2. Dubai faces windstorms during transitional seasons. Keep your windows closed during such weather. 
3. AC filters should be cleaned/changed regularly because they blow micro particles of dust straight onto your sofas and indoors. 
4. Use of slipcovers is recommended as they protect the main fabric of the sofa from exposure to dust. 

Final Words

In a city like Dubai, sofa cleaning is an essential part of home care. By investing in small practices, you can protect your sofas and enhance their lifespan as well. Moreover, regular deep cleaning is essential not only for the protection of sofas but for the protection of your family’s health as well.