Final answer:
Restorers must consider the exposure time, type and susceptibility of microbes, intensity of treatment, the presence of organics, and environmental conditions before cleaning upholstery. They should also weigh the benefits and potential disadvantages of over-cleaning and be especially careful with sensitive items like optical components.
Step-by-step explanation:
Restorers should consider several important considerations before cleaning upholstery to ensure both the effectiveness of the cleaning and the preservation of the material. Firstly, they must evaluate the length of exposure time required for cleaning agents as different materials can tolerate cleaning agents for varying durations. Importantly, the specific type of microbe targeted, along with its susceptibility to the cleaning protocol, must be considered since certain microbes may require specialized treatment.
Moreover, the intensity of the treatment is crucial to avoid damage, and restorers should take into account the presence of organics that could interfere with the cleaning process. Environmental conditions, such as humidity and temperature, can also alter the effectiveness of the protocol, and thus should be monitored.
Restorers must also consider the benefits of achieving a level of cleanliness beyond what is required, which could extend the life and appearance of the upholstery. However, possible disadvantages include the overuse of resources and potential damage to delicate fabrics if cleaned too intensely. For items like optical components, precision is key, suggesting that using a cleaning cloth more than once might deposit previously collected debris, leading to scratches. Therefore, restorers should use a fresh cloth for each pass over such sensitive items.