How to Clean a Linen Bed Frame

A nice, clean linen bed frame is a great way to elevate your bedroom aesthetic. Unlike wood or metal frames, upholstered bed frames are soft and have their own unique sense of personality. 

If you’ve been toying with the idea of swapping out your old bed frame for a linen one, you may be wondering what the upkeep is like. Linen is technically more time-consuming to care for when compared to other forms of frames, but that doesn’t mean caring for them is difficult. 

In fact, cleaning an upholstered bed is simple if you maintain it properly. So, if you’ve been wondering how to clean care for a linen bed frame, you’re in luck. In this article, you’ll learn the best method for cleaning this frame type, what tools you’ll need, and a few other alternatives for you to try. 

What is a Linen Bed Frame?

Unlike the traditional bed frames constructed out of metal, wood, plastic, or acrylic, linen bed frames are padded and entirely covered in linen fabric. Linen is a sustainable and very durable, natural material. 

This bedframe type is very breathable and is known for its softness and longevity. Linen is a fabric produced from the fibers found in the stem of the flax plant. 

Linen has been used for centuries throughout the world to craft many homeware products. Products such as clothing, bedding, and upholstery. 

Upholstered headboards have seen a rise in popularity as of late due to the natural and warm look they bring to a room. These headboards come in a variety of styles, ranging from contemporary to more classic, traditional looks. 

Adding an upholstered headboard to any room can be an easy yet fashionable way to add a touch of luxury and elegance to any bedroom. 

What You Need to Clean a Linen Bed Frame

• Vacuum cleaner or a soft-bristled brush: Just as you would vacuum your bedroom rug, suck up and remove dust and dirt from the bed’s linen fabric. 
• Lint roller: For removing pet hair or other debris that may have gotten stuck to the fabric. 
• Mild detergent: To cleanse the linen fabric. Avoid using any harsh chemicals, such as bleach, as these can damage the fabric. 
• Clean cloth: Needed to apply the detergent and wipe down the frame. 
• Baking soda: For any oil or grease stains.
• Fabric protector spray: This will protect the linen fabric from future spills and stains. 
• Steamer or iron: To remove wrinkles and restore the shape of the fabric after cleaning. 

Additionally, it is best practice to check the manufacturer’s care instructions to see their recommendations before cleaning. If you are unsure about the best way to clean your upholstered headboard, it is best to contact the manufacturer or consult a professional.

Step-by-Step Instructions for How to Clean a Linen Bed Frame

Before you begin cleaning, make sure to double-check the care label on your bed frame to confirm that the material you are cleaning is, in fact, linen. Different fabrics require different cleaning solutions and methods, and using the wrong ones could damage the fabric. 

You can determine what kind of fabric you are dealing with by reading its upholstery fabric code. Once you have verified the fabric you are cleaning, it’s time to begin.

1. Strip the bed
2. Time to Vacuum 
3. Spot Clean
4. Going Deeper
5. Dry and Protect

Follow each step to guarantee a deep clean that’ll leave your bed frame looking like new. Each step is included to not only remove the stain but also to protect your furniture from future spills and messes.

Step 1. Strip the Bed

Start by removing all bedding, including sheets, comforters, pillows, and pillowcases. This creates easier access to all parts of the bed frame that require cleaning. 

Stripping your sheets also prevents the bedding from being damaged during this process. You could also take this time to throw your bedding in the washing machine.

Step 2. Time to Vacuum

Once the bedding is removed, you can easily vacuum the entire bed frame using the vacuum’s arm attachment. This will pick up any dust, dirt, or debris that may have built up over time. 

Vacuuming the entire upholstered fabric also helps maintain the overall hygiene of the bed and the people that sleep in it. The particles you remove can cause allergies, attract dust mites and even damage the fabric itself. 

Step 3. Spot Clean

Now it’s time to target specific areas that have more obvious stains. Targeting smaller spots first, rather than washing the entire bed frame with a cleaning solution, protects against over-saturation, which can cause discoloration to the linen. 

You’ll want to make a mild detergent mix that is easier on the fabric. Take your mild detergent and mix it with water to dilute it, then take the damp cloth or paper towel and begin to gently blot the soiled area. 

Do not scrub it. Scrubbing could damage the fabric. 

Step 4. Going Deeper

If the bed frame requires a deeper cleaning after you have spot treated, you can use an upholstery stain remover. Follow any instructions from the manufacturer on how to administer the fabric cleaner. 

Some manufacturers may suggest using a spray bottle to mist the cleaner onto the bed frame. Then, gently blot it again until the stain fades away.

Step 5. Dry and Protect

Take a break for a few hours. You need the fabric dry before you perform the last steps. You may need to use a dry cloth to soak up excess moisture. 

Once the fabric is dry, if you haven’t used the baking soda yet, you could use it to cover the frame to deodorize it. Let it sit for a few minutes before vacuuming it off. 

You can then spray the frame with the fabric protector spray to safeguard against new stains. Lastly, you can steam or iron the frame to remove any wrinkles or creases, making the finished product look neat and tidy.

Key Considerations For Successfully Cleaning a Linen Bed Frame

The most important thing to consider for cleaning upholstered headboards successfully is to always check the fabric care label first before you begin. You always want to make sure that the cleaning method you choose is safe for the fabric. 

Address stains as quickly as possible. The longer they have to set in could make them harder to remove later. Always allow the frame enough time to air dry completely to avoid mold developing.

If you have a stubborn stain that doesn’t seem to respond well to the cleaning method above, you may need to repeat the steps. Linen is a soft material that easily absorbs stains making them more difficult to clean. You may need to perform the steps multiple times until you’re happy with the results. 

Alternative Methods for Cleaning a Linen Bed Frame

Baby Powder

If you are unable to apply baking soda, you could try baby powder for oil stains. Baby powder does contain an odor, so this may not be the best option for anyone who’s sensitive to fragrances. 

Simply apply the baby powder the same as you would the baking soda and continue with the steps listed above. 

Mild Detergent

You could also try a dry cleaning solvent in place of a mild detergent. You can use dish soap or laundry detergent, anything that’s relatively safe to use on your clothing. 

Detergent is geared towards cleaning and breaking down dirt on fabrics such as linen, so if you have a stronger solution, this is an excellent choice. 

Steam Cleaner

A steam cleaner uses high-temperature water vapor to kill germs and molds and help clean linen fabrics. If you have a steam cleaner, this is a great option for routinely cleaning your linen bed frame. 

These cleaners can also be rented and are worth the money to help keep your bed’s fabric free from allergens. 

Vinegar

Linen bed frames can absorb odors from its surrounding. Vinegar is an excellent solution for removing these odors naturally. 

Simply dilute a cup of vinegar, dip a rag in the liquid, and rub down your linen frame. Make sure the solution is diluted enough so that it doesn’t leave a vinegar smell on your bed. 

After it dries, the smell will dissolve. You can also add a small amount of vinegar to a spray bottle with water and spray your bed frame down periodically. 

Citrus Solution

Another great option is to spray your linen frame down with a citrus solution. To make the solution, you’ll need orange or lemon peels and a spray bottle full of vinegar or water. 

Place the peels in the bottle and allow them to soak for at least 24 hours. You can also add a few drops of essential oil to the water, such as thyme, for antimicrobial abilities. 

The citrus water leaves your bed smelling bright and fresh. 

FAQ

How often should I clean an upholstered headboard?

It is recommended that you clean your headboard at least once a month to prevent dust or mold from building up. Especially if you have allergies, the more often you clean your headboard, the better you’ll feel. You may need to clean yours more frequently or as necessary. 

What is the best way to keep my linen bed frame clean longer?

Take precautions and maintain a regular cleaning schedule. Use a mattress protector to keep out moisture from potential spills. Vacuum the bed frame regularly to prevent dust and dirt from building up over time. Keep a lint roller on hand for maintenance in-between deep cleans to reduce the amount of work that’ll need to be done. Don’t eat or drink in bed to decrease the likelihood of spills, which become stains from occurring in the first place. If you do spill, try to address it sooner rather than later, so it doesn’t have time to set into the fabric as deeply.

In Conclusion

Knowing how to clean a linen bed frame will keep your space looking fresh and neat while adding a touch of personality and charm to any bedroom. The piece can elevate the overall aesthetic of your space. 

Maintaining a regular cleaning schedule is essential for prolonging your furniture’s lifespan and ensuring a comfortable and hygienic sleeping environment. While cleaning your linen bed frame can seem like a daunting task at first, if you follow these few simple steps, you’ll have no problem removing any dirt or stains that may build up over time. 

Now you can easily keep your linen bed frame looking and feeling great for years to come.