Does anybody have any advice on how to clean the fabric on an Eames Aluminum Group side chair? I've read people simply hosing them down, but is that something that could do damage to the chair itself?
Since it's winter and I can't use a hose anyways, would it be OK to lightly agitate the fabric with something like Woolite, and then simply rinse the fabric down in the shower?
FYI, I'm specifically referring to 80's vintage aluminum group chairs w/ black fabric with graphite frames on the 5-star bases.
I have no experience washing textiles...
but since the textile is black, it would probably fade slightly even with gentle household products. Consider lugging the bad-boy into the coolest shower that you can stand. I'd be tempted to use a mild water flow, and start with the underside. After its bath, dry the aluminum parts with your wife's favorite beach towel, and see what happens.
But I could be wrong.
Good luck,
Aunt Mark
Yes, specialist fabric...
Yes, specialist fabric cleaning products are the way to go. What type of textile is it? With most textile types used in furniture it is essential to not overwet the fabric. Use a foaming type cleaner and a barely damp cloth to remove.
I had good success cleaning some 1970's upholstered Eames armshells with a product that came in an aerosol can.
I ended up just using a...
I ended up just using a diluted solution of woolite with a gentle brush to agitate some spots. Then lightly rinsed using a spray bottle of water. Since it's winter, I did all the cleaning in the shower and it was a PITA. the results were good though. I then took a shop vac to it to dry the fabric. I didn't notice any color loss but there was a lot of grime that came out of it.
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