Bean bag chairs are a fun, comfortable way to add casual seating to any room. However, like any furniture, they can get dirty over time. Cleaning a bean bag regularly will help extend its life and keep it looking fresh. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to effectively clean a bean bag chair.
Supplies Needed
To clean a bean bag chair, you will need the following supplies:
- Vacuum cleaner with hose attachment
- Upholstery shampoo or mild detergent
- Clean towels
- Spray bottle filled with water
- Small scrub brush or old toothbrush
- Lint roller or masking tape
Make sure you have all of these items on hand before beginning the cleaning process.
Step 1: Vacuum the Chair
The first step is to vacuum up any loose dirt, crumbs or debris from the bean bag chair. Use the hose attachment of your vacuum to reach into the crevices and corners. Vacuuming helps lift surface-level grime and prevents further buildup in the interior filling.
Vacuum all sides, including the base and back of the bean bag. Get into the seams and crevices as much as possible. Run the vacuum over the entire surface multiple times to thoroughly clean it.
Step 2: Spot Clean Stains
After vacuuming, check the bean bag chair for any visible stains. Food, drinks, dirt and oils from hair or skin can stain the fabric over time.
For small stains, mix a solution of warm water and mild detergent or upholstery shampoo. Use a spray bottle to lightly spritz the stain. Allow it to soak for 5-10 minutes. Then blot the stain gently with a clean, dry towel.
For tough stains, use a soft bristle scrub brush or an old toothbrush to work in the detergent solution. Scrub gently in a circular motion. Avoid vigorously scrubbing, as this can damage the fabric.
Rinse the spot with clean water and blot dry again with a towel. Repeat these steps until the stain is completely removed.
Step 3: Remove Lint and Debris
Even after vacuuming, you may notice debris like lint, crumbs or pet hair stuck to the bean bag’s surface. Use masking tape or a lint roller to remove this material.
Simply press and pull the tape over the surface to lift away any debris. A lint roller with sticky paper also works well for capturing pet hair and lint.
Going over the chair with tape or a lint roller ensures no debris gets wet or worked into the fabric during cleaning.
Step 4: Freshen Exterior Fabric
For a deep clean of the entire bean bag chair, you’ll need to shampoo the outer fabric. This helps remove built-up grime, oils and musty odors.
Mix an all-purpose upholstery cleaner or a very mild detergent with warm water in a spray bottle. Avoid using laundry detergents, as they may contain bleaching agents that can damage the fabric.
Spray or mist the solution generously over all surfaces of the bean bag. Use a scrub brush to gently work in the solution, rubbing in circular motions. This lifts dirt from the fibers.
Once the entire chair is cleaned with scrubbing, use a clean damp towel to blot and rinse the fabric. Wipe off any excess cleaning solution. Then let the bean bag air dry completely before using or replacing the cover.
Step 5: Wash Removable Covers
Many bean bag chairs have removable covers that can be taken off and washed. This makes cleaning much easier.
Check if your chair has a removable cover secured by a zipper or buttons. Unfasten the closures and slip the cover off the bean bag.
Wash the cover in the washing machine on a gentle cycle with cool water. Mild detergent may be used if needed. Avoid using bleach or fabric softener, as they can damage or discolor the fabric.
Air dry the bean bag cover or tumble dry on low heat. Once fully dried, zip or button the cover back onto the chair.
Washing covers allows you to thoroughly deep clean the fabric, removing odors and sanitizing it.
Step 6: Freshen Interior Filling
While vacuuming helps clean the surface, deeper cleaning the filling requires more work. This ensures any mildew, mold or odors inside are eliminated.
There are a few methods to deep clean bean bag filling:
Air and Fluff
On a dry, sunny day, bring the bean bag outside and leave it in direct sunlight for several hours. The UV rays help kill odor-causing bacteria.
Fluff and shake the filling frequently to expose all areas to sunlight. You can also use a fan to blow air into the bag to freshen the interior.
Freeze
Place the bean bag chair in a sealed plastic bag and put it in the freezer for 24-48 hours. The cold temperature kills mold and odors.
Remove and air dry before using or refilling. Make sure the filling is completely dry so mildew doesn’t grow.
Baking Soda
Sprinkle baking soda liberally throughout the filling of the bean bag. Shake well so the powder is distributed.
Let sit for a few hours or overnight before vacuuming up the baking soda. It naturally deodorizes and absorbs moisture.
Optional: Replacement Beans
For extreme odor problems, or if the bean filling is deteriorating, consider replacing the interior beans completely. Many bean bag manufacturers sell replacement beans.
Simply remove the old filling and discard it. Then refill the empty bean bag with fresh polyurethane foam beads.
Maintenance Tips
Regular cleaning and maintenance will keep your bean bag chair looking fluffy and new. Follow these handy care tips:
- Vacuum every 1-2 weeks to prevent dirt buildup
- Spot clean spills and stains immediately
- Wash removable covers monthly
- Consider spray treatments to protect fabric
- Fluff filling daily by kneading or shaking
- Freshen interior every 2-3 months
- Protect from direct sunlight to avoid fading
- Do not allow pets to claw or chew the chair
With proper care, a quality bean bag chair will retain its comfort and appearance for years of use. Don’t wait until your chair is too dirty – start following a regular cleaning routine today!
FAQs About Cleaning Bean Bag Chairs
How can I freshen up my bean bag naturally?
If you want to freshen a bean bag without chemicals, try setting it outside on a sunny day. The sunlight naturally deodorizes and kills bacteria. Baking soda also absorbs odors well – just sprinkle it in generously and let sit before vacuuming up.
What is the best way to clean a bean bag chair?
Vacuum thoroughly first, spot clean stains, remove lint/debris, wash the removable cover, and freshen the interior filling. This full cleaning process will keep the chair dirt-free and odor-free.
How do you get old stains out of a bean bag chair?
Make a solution of mild upholstery detergent or soap and warm water. Lightly spray or spritz stained areas of the bean bag. Allow the solution to soak in for 5-10 minutes. Blot with a clean towel. Scrub gently with a soft brush. Rinse and blot dry. Repeat as needed to lift old stains.
How do I get mold out of my bean bag chair?
If mold is growing, discard the existing filling. Thoroughly clean and dry the empty bag. Then refill with new, dry poly beads. Be sure to fully dry bean bags after cleaning to prevent future mold growth. Baking soda also helps inhibit mold.
Why does my bean bag chair smell bad?
Odors can build up in bean bags from mildew, bacteria, and everyday use. Clean vomit, food spills or pet accidents right away. Freshen with baking soda, sunlight or freezing. Wash covers and vacuum regularly. If odors persist, the interior filling may need to be replaced.
Should I rotate my bean bag chair?
Yes, rotating a bean bag chair helps it keep its shape and remain fluffy. The filling can become compressed on the floor side. Rotate or flip the bag every few weeks so no single area gets excess pressure. Fluff and knead it daily to maintain even filling distribution.
How often should I clean my bean bag?
For light use, clean your bean bag chair every 2-3 months. Vacuum every 1-2 weeks to remove surface debris. Spot clean spills right away. Wash removable covers monthly. Clean more frequently if pets use the chair or it gets heavy use. Let the bag air dry completely between uses.
Conclusion
Bean bag chairs are a comfy, fun kind of seating for any room. But like any upholstered furniture, they require regular cleaning to keep them in top shape. Follow this complete guide to thoroughly clean all parts of a bean bag chair.
Vacuum surfaces, spot treat stains, wash removable covers, and freshen the interior filling. With the proper cleaning methods and supplies, you can keep your bean bag chair looking fresh and new for many years. Consistent care will also get rid of odors and extend its usable life.
Keep the cleaning tips outlined above in mind and enjoy the casual comfort of your bean bag chair for a long time to come!