A well-maintained office space creates a professional and inviting atmosphere for both employees and visitors. However, everyday spills, ink marks, and coffee stains can quickly take the shine off your office furniture. While it’s tempting to grab the nearest cleaning product and start scrubbing, using the wrong technique or harsh chemicals can cause permanent damage. Here’s how to safely remove stains from office furniture while preserving its appearance and longevity.
Identify the Material
Before attempting to remove a stain, determine what material you’re dealing with. Common office furniture materials include:
- Fabric upholstery (e.g., reception chairs, meeting room seating)
- Leather or faux leather
- Wood
- Laminate
- Glass
Each material requires a different cleaning approach to avoid damage.
Removing Stains from Fabric Upholstery
Fabric chairs and sofas are particularly prone to coffee spills and ink stains. Here’s how to tackle them:
- Fresh spills: Blot (don’t rub) the stain with a dry microfibre cloth to absorb excess liquid.
- General stains: Mix mild dish soap with warm water and use a soft brush or cloth to dab at the stain gently.
- Ink stains: Rubbing alcohol or a vinegar solution (equal parts white vinegar and water) can help lift ink. Test in an inconspicuous area first.
- Oil-based stains: Sprinkle baking soda on the affected area, let it sit for 15 minutes, then vacuum it up before using a mild soap solution.
For businesses looking to upgrade their office seating, it’s worth considering high-quality options that are easy to maintain. You can order reception chairs with stain-resistant fabrics to minimise maintenance concerns.
Cleaning Leather and Faux Leather
Leather and faux leather office furniture require a delicate touch to maintain their sleek appearance.
- Mild soap and water: Use a damp cloth with a drop of dish soap to wipe away stains.
- Rubbing alcohol for ink stains: Dab (don’t rub) the stain with a cotton ball soaked in rubbing alcohol. Follow with a leather conditioner to prevent drying.
- Avoid harsh chemicals: Bleach and ammonia-based cleaners can crack or discolour leather surfaces.
Removing Stains from Wooden Desks and Tables
Wooden furniture can be tricky to clean, as excessive moisture can cause warping.
- Water stains: Rub a small amount of petroleum jelly or a mixture of equal parts white vinegar and olive oil into the stain.
- Ink stains: Lightly sand the area with fine-grit sandpaper and reapply a wood polish or wax.
- Sticky stains: Use a damp cloth with mild soap, then immediately dry the area to prevent water damage.
Cleaning Laminate and Glass Surfaces
Laminate desks and glass tabletops are relatively low-maintenance, but stains can still be an issue.
- Laminate stains: A mix of baking soda and water can gently lift stubborn marks without scratching the surface.
- Glass stains: A vinegar and water solution or a commercial glass cleaner will remove smudges and water rings effortlessly.
Final Tips for Preventing Stains
- Keep microfibre cloths and gentle cleaning solutions readily available for quick clean-ups.
- Encourage employees to use coasters and desk mats to minimise stains on furniture.
- Regularly vacuum upholstered chairs to remove dust and debris that can lead to deeper stains.
By following these simple yet effective cleaning techniques, you can keep your office furniture looking fresh and professional for years to come.