A DIY Solution for Surface-Clean-Only Items
Learn the secret of washing “surface-clean only” items using homemade soap foam. Say goodbye to stains with this simple, effective method!
Our weekend started off on a somewhat sour note. A sour stomach, to be more specific. Both boys were sick as dogs. I believe it was the questionable dinner that Dad served, but I have no proof—just a theory. The only true highlight of this sick-y subject is that I learned how to wash things that are typically not washable.
I will now share my pearls of wisdom with you, my dear readers.
Washing Surface-Clean Only Stuffed Animals
My middle child’s bunny has been his BFF since he was 1 year old. We have a tradition of having the kids make a lovey at Build-a-Bear for their first birthday. Bunny still sleeps with him every night, even 7 years later.
So how did I restore Bunny to his former glory?
Washing Slippers and Footwear
Minus the fact that I become more static-charged than a load of clothes in the dryer in winter when I wear my UltraIdeas slippers, they are the best slippers ever. Unfortunately, between the faux wool and the rubber soles, they don’t tend to survive the washing machine, even on the delicate cycle. There is a large flaw in the design of my comfy slippers.
So how did I get my slippers good-as-new?
Washing Upholstery and “The Ugly Chair”
Okay, so you can tell from the title of this one that I am not particularly fond of said chair. It’s like the ’70s threw up on it (pun intended), but it’s my (now “ex”) husband’s favorite chair, and, as the compromising wife that I am (was), I let him keep it, though I cover it with a throw when I know company is coming. I lack a steam cleaner, and that tweed holds solids and liquids like you wouldn’t believe.
So how did I save the chair I secretly loathe?
My Recipe for Surface Washing Foam
The secret to cleaning “surface clean only” items lies in the gentle power of Dawn dish soap foam. Create a cleansing potion by whisking Dawn dish soap into water until it transforms into a fluffy foam.
Add 2 cups of warm water into a mixing bowl, and then add a squirt of liquid dishwashing soap (like Dawn). Use an electric mixer at medium speed to mix the solution, and it will create a foam that can be used to clean your unwashable stuff. Simply scrub the item with a clean cloth or washcloth. Remember to only use the foam. You can use the mixer repeatedly if you need more foam. An old toothbrush is great for small-scale scrubbing.
Use a spray bottle with cold water to gently rinse the surface of the said item. Do not saturate the item!
Rinse as much soap suds away as possible without letting it soak the inside. Remove excess water with a clean towel and let the item air dry. With items like slippers and stuffed toys, you can fluff it with a hair dryer on a warm or cool setting.
So, wave goodbye to stubborn stains and embrace the revitalizing touch of Dawn dish soap foam, giving your “surface clean only” items a new lease on life.
Tip: For stubborn stains, consider treating the area with a specialized stain remover suitable for the fabric type. Perform a spot test in an inconspicuous area first to ensure compatibility. Remember, patience is key, and gradual, gentle cleaning is often the best approach for delicate items.
Frequently Asked Questions
Need more cleaning help?
- Remove cooking spray residue from your pots and pans and prevent it from coming back by switching to homemade cooking spray (a great alternative to PAM).
- Green Clean is all well and good, but they aren’t all created equally. Check out my 7 favorite green cleaners and the 4 I suggest you avoid or learn to make your own cleaning products.
- Learn the trick to having ridiculously clean windows inside and out with this secret technique for sparkly windows.
- An organized house automatically looks cleaner. Get your homestead organized with these handy organizational printables.
- Have you ever made your own laundry detergent? It’s easier than you may think!
If you’ve found value in this blog post and enjoyed reading it, why not share it with your Pinterest community? Pin the image below and spread the love!
Once you’ve mastered the skill of cleaning “surface clean only” items, there are countless ways to preserve your beloved possessions. You can revive delicate textiles and keep your beloved possessions looking new and vibrant with the help of Dawn dish soap foam and the right approach for tough stains. Take your time to safeguard the longevity of your cherished possessions.
Which “surface clean only” item are you excited to rescue using the Dawn dish soap foam method? Share your experiences and tips below!
How to Wash Delicates with Soap Foam
This post may contain paid links. If you make a purchase using the links in this recipe, I may earn a commission.
Equipment
- 1 Mixing Bowl
- 1 Spray Bottle
Ingredients
- 1 squirt Dish Soap I prefer Dawn
- 2 c. Warm Water
Instructions
- Put warm water into a mixing bowl, and then add a squirt of liquid dishwashing soap.2 c. Warm Water, 1 squirt Dish Soap
- Use an electric mixer at medium speed to mix the solution until it creates foam.
- Gently clean the item with the foam.
- Use a spray bottle to rinse the surface of the item with clean water.
- Let the item air dry or use a hair dryer on a warm or cool setting.