How To Clean And Maintain Power Recliner Sofas?

TABLE OF CONTENT

1. Before You Start Cleaning Your Power Recliner Sofas
2. Cleaning And Maintaining The Electrical Components In The Recliner
3. What You Should Not Clean?
4. Cleaning Power Reclining Sofas Based on Upholstery
5. Conclusion

If you think cleaning a recliner sofa is no different from cleaning a power recliner sofa, you are WRONG. The latter includes electrical components that require careful cleaning and maintenance.

Imagine this situation where you are relaxing on a power recliner sofa, and suddenly, the recliner gets stuck and gives a grinding motion. When you enquire about it, you will find pet hair stuck to that.

We often focus on the exterior when it comes to cleaning a recliner on a sofa. It is also important to overlook that the interior parts that are out of sight also collect dust and dirt that clogs the working of these sofas. 

But let's be very clear: electrical components in a recliner ARE NOT meant to be cleaned the way a fabric surface or wooden frame is. This should be all about gentle maintenance.

This article helps you clean and maintain your power recliner sofa. Now, let's get started.

Before You Start Cleaning Your Power Recliner Sofas, Know That:

Safety is a top priority always, and make sure you have followed the below-given steps:

1. Always unplug the power recliner, especially when you clean anything electrical. Unplugging here means disconnecting the battery backup or unplugging the recliner from the wall outlet.
2. Strictly stay away from spraying any cleaner directly onto the components. Because the electrical components might have minute openings, the solution can seep into them, damage the internal circuits, and cause unnecessary accidents.
3. Don't use any wet cloth for cleaning this area, especially forget to use them on or near any plug, socket, or wiring parts.
4. Don't open anything sealed. If a part needs deep cleaning inside, that's a sign it's time to call a technician, or if you find something is broken, get it replaced ASAP.
   

Cleaning And Maintaining  The Electrical Components In The Recliner:

1. The Motor 

Also known as the heart of every power recliner, this part is responsible for moving the footrest, adjusting the headrest, or activating the lumbar support. Remember, you can't do any insider cleaning. We recommend just wiping the motor's exterior using a dry cloth to get rid of the dust and dirt collected.

Note: Make sure you unplug the recliner sofa before you get your hands dirty.

If you are noticing strange noises like grinding during movement, it's worth having it inspected before it becomes a big issue.

2. The Power Supply Unit

The transformer is the component that connects your recliner to the wall outlet and safely converts high-voltage AC power into lower-voltage DDC power for the motor.

Dust this part occasionally using a dry microfiber cloth and check that none of the cords are overheating while they work. If you find the power supply unusually hot or emits a smell, unplug it and seek professional help.

3. Wires And Connectors

The internal wiring harness and connectors form a delicate network that links everything together, from the motor to the power supply.

These wires are tucked away. But that doesn't mean they are immune to damage. So once in a while, ensure all cords are properly plugged in and not tangled. To clean them, simply wipe the cords with a dry cloth. Strictly avoid using a damp cloth or any chemicals.

4. Remote Control Panel

This part is often touched and it's obvious that they tend to collect oils, dust and grime faster than other components.

To clean the controls, unplug the recliner, then wipe the buttons using a slightly damp cloth. Use a cotton swab to clean tight corners or around buttons.

5. Battery Backup

Some power recliners are equipped with a battery backup system. If you are stuck in a reclining position during a power outage, this backup can get you to the normal position.

Maintaining the battery backup is easy. Every few months, simulate a power outage by unplugging the recliner and testing its ability to return to neutral using battery power alone. 

If the recliner doesn't respond, it may be time to replace the battery. Clean the battery case occasionally by dusting it with a dry cloth, and make sure it stays dry and protected from temperature extremes.

What You Should Not Clean?

Avoid laying your hands on internal circuit boards, wire ends, sockets, plug terminals, or any component that shows fraying wires, burns, or exposed metal that is supposed to be replaced and not cleaned.

Cleaning Power Reclining Sofas Based on Upholstery

In this section, we will discuss how to clean fabric and leather power reclining sofas:

Get Your Cleaning Supplies Ready, You will need:

• Soft microfiber cloths
  
• Mild detergent or leather cleaner(leather) 
  
• Soft-bristled brush
  
• Vacuum with attachments
  
• Disinfectant wipes (safe for surfaces)
  
• Upholstery cleaner
  

1. Cleaning Leather Recliners

You can start by dusting the leather surface using a dry cloth. Once done, you can wipe them down using a leather cleaner.  To treat stains, you can blot the spills immediately using a dry microfiber cloth.

Then use leather-safe cleaners. Dampen a cloth with the solution and wipe gently. Follow with a clean, dry cloth to remove any residue.

To keep the leather in a healthy condition, i.e. maintain suppleness and prevent cracking over time, we recommend conditioning them every few months.

2. Cleaning Fabric Recliners

You can vacuum thoroughly and then spot clean using fabric-safe cleaner. But avoid over-saturating the fabric. 

If spills occur or if the fabric recliner is already stained, follow these steps:

• Blot the spills immediately using a dry cloth or paper towel. Check the cleaning code label on your recliner: W, S, WS, or X.
  

 

• Use A Fabric-Safe Stain Remover To Remove The Stains.

Choose a water-based upholstery cleaner or if you want a DIY solution, mix mild dish soap and water. Try cleaning on a hidden area to check for colorfastness or texture change and wait 10 to 15 minutes to know if any issues pop up. Then apply the cleaner sparingly using a cloth and we recommend working from the outside in to avoid spreading. For tougher stains, you can use an enzyme-based upholstery cleaner.

Let it air dry. If you want them to dry quickly, use a hair dryer on a low setting.

You will find a more detailed guide on how to clean a fabric upholstery in a sofa. 

3. Cleaning Faux Leather/Vinyl

As usual, dust the sofa and then take a cleaning solution (mild soap + water). Damp a cloth on it and clean the surface. But ensure you stay away from harsh chemicals that crack the surface.

If spills occur, blot up it immediately. Faux leather is more water-resistant than real leather, so act quickly but without panic.

Mild soap and water does the trick here. Just mix a few drops of dish soap in warm water and use a damp cloth. Gently wipe the stained area, then immediately dry with a clean towel.

Note: Faux leather can vary in quality. So, first use a cleaning solution to a concealed area to check for peeling, discoloration, or cracking.

Also, read this guide that covers how to clean fabric sofas without a steamer.

Preventive care tips for cleaning power reclining sofas:

• Vacuum not just the surface but also under and around the sofas so that it reduces dust buildup.
  
• Use slipcovers to protect high-contact areas from sweat, oils, and daily friction. 
  
• Direct sunlight can cause fading, drying, or cracking, especially on leather. So keep the sofa away. Plus, heat vents can also wrap materials and strain motorized parts.
  
• Claws can puncture or tear the power reclining sofa's surface. Pet hair also gets embedded in seams and is tough to fully remove.
  

Conclusion

While regular maintenance goes a long way, don't hesitate to hire a professional if you notice electrical malfunctions, hear odd noises when you use the furniture, or experience uneven reclining or visible structural damage.

Annual servicing is especially smart for motorized or lift models, which is like tuning up your recliner's comfort engine.

At the end of the day, if you upkeep your power recliner, it will reward you with smooth functioning and make every penny you spend worthwhile.