How to Clean Fabric Dining Chairs at Home | 7 Easy Ways
Cleaning fabric dining chairs at home is an important task that can make your furniture look great and last longer.

Over time, these chairs can collect dirt, stains, and odors from daily use. But don’t worry! With the right steps and materials, you can easily clean them and restore their beauty.
This guide will show you a simple seven-step process on how to clean fabric dining chairs at home, including tips for using baking soda, steam cleaning, and natural cleaning methods. Keep Reading!
Quick 7 Steps On How to Clean Fabric Dining Chairs at Home
I will help you explain, how to clean fabric dining chairs at home while focusing on various cleaning methods, including baking soda, steam cleaning, and natural solutions. Let’s get to one step at a time!
Step 1: Identify the Fabric Type for Cleaning Fabric Dining Chairs at Home
Before you start cleaning fabric dining chairs at home, it’s important to know what kind of fabric they are made from. Different fabrics need different cleaning methods to avoid damage:

- Cotton: Strong and easy to clean with water.
- Polyester: Stain-resistant and can handle various cleaners.
- Linen: More delicate; usually needs special care or professional cleaning.
- Microfiber: Easy to clean but can be damaged by too much water.
Check the care label on your chairs for specific cleaning codes:
- W: Clean with water.
- S: Clean with solvent-based products.
- S/W: Can use either solvent or water.
- X: Only vacuum; do not use water or solvents.
Check the care label on your chairs for specific instructions. This will help you choose the right cleaning method.
Step 2: Gather Your Cleaning Supplies for Cleaning Fabric Dining Chairs at Home
To clean your chairs effectively, you’ll need some supplies. Here’s a list of what to gather when learning how to clean fabric dining chairs at home:

- Vacuum Cleaner: With an upholstery attachment for removing dust and dirt.
- Microfiber Cloths: Soft cloths that won’t scratch the fabric.
- Baking Soda: A natural cleaner that helps absorb odors and lift stains.
- Mild Dish Soap or Upholstery Cleaner: For general cleaning.
- White Vinegar: A natural deodorizer and stain remover.
- Hydrogen Peroxide: For tougher stains (make sure to test it first).
- Spray Bottle: For mixing and applying cleaning solutions.
- Soft Brush: Optional, for gently scrubbing fabric.
Step 3: Vacuum Thoroughly When Cleaning Fabric Dining Chairs at Home
Start by removing loose dirt, dust, and debris from your chairs:

- Use the Upholstery Attachment: Begin vacuuming from the top of the chair downwards. Pay attention to all areas, including:
- The seat
- Backrest
- Armrests
- Undersides and seams
- Focus on Crevices: Use a narrow attachment to get into tight spaces where dirt tends to hide.
- Check for Pet Hair or Debris: If you have pets, make sure to remove all hair as it can cling stubbornly to fabric.
Regular vacuuming not only cleans but also helps keep the fabric looking good by preventing dirt buildup.
Step 4: Spot Clean Stains on Fabric Dining Chairs at Home
If you see any stains on your chairs, it’s best to treat them before doing a full clean:

- Identify the Stain Type: Different stains need different treatments:
- For food or drink spills (water-based): Mix equal parts of mild dish soap and warm water.
- For oil-based stains (grease, lotion): Use a mixture of baking soda and dish soap.
- Apply Baking Soda for Stains on Fabric Dining Chairs at Home:
- Sprinkle baking soda directly onto the stain or make a paste by mixing it with water or white vinegar.
- Apply this paste to the stain using a soft brush or microfiber cloth, gently rubbing in circular motions.
- Let It Sit:
- Allow the baking soda paste to sit for about 15–20 minutes. This will help absorb odors and lift stains.
- Rinse the Area:
- After treating stains, dampen another cloth with plain water and blot the area to remove any leftover residue.
- Drying:
- Use a dry microfiber cloth to soak up excess moisture and speed up drying.
Step 5: Prepare a General Cleaning Solution for Cleaning Fabric Dining Chairs at Home
For overall cleaning when figuring out how to clean fabric dining chairs at home, prepare a simple solution:

- In a spray bottle, mix:
- 1 cup of warm water
- ½ cup of white vinegar
- A few drops of mild dish soap
- Shake gently to mix.
This solution is effective for general cleaning and deodorizing without harsh chemicals.
Step 6: Clean All Fabric Surfaces of Your Dining Chairs at Home
Now it’s time for a thorough clean:

- Spray the Cleaning Solution:
- Lightly mist the solution onto the fabric surface without soaking it. Work in sections so that you don’t oversaturate any area.
- Wipe Down Surfaces:
- Use a damp microfiber cloth to wipe down all areas of the chair, including seams and crevices.
- For heavily soiled areas, use a soft brush to scrub gently.
- Avoid Excess Water:
- Be careful not to soak the fabric too much as this can lead to mold growth or water stains.
- Allow Time for Drying:
- After cleaning, let your chairs air dry completely in a well-ventilated area. You can use fans to help speed up drying but avoid direct heat sources like hair dryers.
Step 7: Freshen Up Your Chairs After Cleaning Fabric Dining Chairs at Home
Once cleaned, it’s important to keep your chairs smelling fresh:

- Baking Soda Treatment:
- Sprinkle baking soda over the fabric and let it sit for at least 15 minutes before vacuuming it up. This helps absorb odors effectively.
- Fabric Freshening Spray (Optional):
- Consider using a fabric freshening spray that is safe for upholstery after cleaning to add an extra layer of freshness.
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Regular Maintenance Tips for Cleaning Fabric Dining Chairs at Home:
- Regularly vacuum your chairs every few weeks.
- Spot clean any spills immediately to prevent staining.
- Consider applying a fabric protector spray after cleaning to repel future stains.
Do’s
✔️Vacuum
✔️Blot
✔️Test
✔️Spray
✔️Dry
Dont’s
❌Soak
❌Scrub
❌Ignore
❌ Bleach
❌Neglect
Conclusion
Cleaning fabric dining chairs at home doesn’t have to be hard work! By following these seven simple steps on how to clean fabric dining chairs at home, you can keep them looking great and lasting longer.
Regular maintenance is key spot clean spills immediately, vacuum often, and consider professional help when needed for deep cleans or stubborn stains.
With these practices in place on how to clean fabric dining chairs at home, your dining chairs will continue to enhance your home’s decor while providing comfort during meals with family and friends. Enjoy your refreshed dining space!