Are Sofa Covers Machine Washable?

Spots, stains, and spills on your sofa are inevitable. But what do you do when your sofa cover gets dirty?

Well, sofa covers are machine washable – you’ve got to take some precautions before you throw them into the machine!

In this article, we’ll cover:

• Whether or not you can machine wash your sofa covers
• How to clean your sofa covers in the washing machine
• Our top tips.

Let’s get into it!

Is It Okay to Machine Wash Sofa Covers?

The easiest method of cleaning a sofa cover would be to just put it through the washing machine — but is this safe? Or is it going to damage your sofa cover?

It Depends on the Type of Fabric

There is no catch-all rule for washing sofa covers. Since sofa covers are made with different types of fabric, they all have different specific ways they need to be cared for.

Some fabrics are fine to be put through a machine cycle, while others are more delicate and are therefore strictly hand-wash only.

Check the Label First

Checking the label on your sofa cover is an absolute must. This will tell you exactly how to care for the cover and prevent you from damaging it by cleaning it incorrectly.

This label can generally be found on the underside of the main section of your sofa. This typically means they will be attached to the bottom of the seat cushions, near the back and sides of the sofa.

If you cannot locate the label, the information can often be found on the manufacturer’s website.

Follow the Indicated Cleaning Code

Located on the label will be a cleaning code, which is where you will find all the information regarding how to care for your sofa cover.

This cleaning code will consist of a specific code: W, S, S-W, or X.

• W
  This indicates that you should only use a water-based solution to clean the cover. For this, you could use soap, dish liquid, or a type of water-based upholstery cleaner.
• S
  This is the solvent indicator, meaning you should use water-free solvents to clean this. Rubbing alcohol and dry-cleaning solvents are ideal for this type of fabric.
• If the fabric is smooth, like leather, then you may also use baby wipes to clean it.
• S-W
  This key indicates a combination of both solvent and water, meaning you can use either or both to clean this fabric. Any of the wet and dry options listed under ‘W’ and ‘S’ are appropriate for this fabric.
• X
  This code means that the fabric should only be cleaned by a vacuum or a brush.
• If you spill a liquid on this type of fabric, this unfortunately means that it will require specialist equipment to clean, and you may have to pay the dry cleaners a visit.

How to Clean Sofa Covers in a Washing Machine

Say you’ve gotten a spill or stain on your sofa cover and want to machine wash it — how do you go about this? Can you just toss it in and put it through a normal cycle? It’s not necessarily that simple.

Make Sure That the Tag Allows It

First things first, always check the tag and make sure the fabric of your sofa cover is machine washable.

This is vitally important, as machine washing the wrong type of fabric can cause tears, discolouration, and shrinkage.

Vacuum the Sofa

Giving your sofa cover a vacuum before popping it into the machine will remove any debris and ensure your washing machine doesn’t get clogged up with dander or pet hair.

It doesn’t have to be super, thorough — just a light vacuum will do.

Use a Hair Removal Tool to Eliminate Pet Hair (Optional)

If you have pets that shed on your sofa, you’re definitely going to want to clear this off before putting your covers in the machine.

If a vacuum doesn’t cut it, use a pet hair tool to ensure that this hair is off your cover before you wash it.

Remove Any Stains Using an Upholstery Cleaner

A simple machine wash might not be able to combat particularly stubborn stains. Use an upholstery cleaner or stain remover to break down any harsh stains.

Just be sure to check that any product you use to spot clean is safe for the fabric.

Zip Up the Sofa Covers and Put Them in the Machine (Without Overfilling)

You only need to wash the outside of the sofa covers, so ensure they are zipped up to prevent the zips from getting pulled out of shape.

Then you can pop the covers in the washing machine, but be careful not to overfill — just one large sofa cover or a few small cushion covers at a time!

By overcrowding the machine, you run the risk of the covers not being washed properly.

Set the Washing Machine to a Delicate Cycle and Cold-Water Wash

A delicate cycle and cold-water wash are preferable for sofa covers. These covers are typically fragile, and by doing a cold and delicate cycle you prevent damage, tears, shrinking, and stripping of the colour.

Add Mild Detergent

Since this sofa cover is likely going to have a lot of contact with your skin, it is ideal to use a mild or sensitive detergent.

This also avoids the risk of harsher detergents affecting the fabric and draining the colour or impacting the texture.

Take the Sofa Covers Out to Dry in the Open Air Once the Cycle Has Finished

Be sure to only air dry your sofa covers. Any form of dryer or intense heat will cause many fabrics to shrink, and they will no longer fit on your sofa and cushions.

Hanging them out on a washing line for a few hours will ensure that they keep their original size and shape, and won’t do any damage to the fabric.

Tips on Washing Sofa Covers

If you’re particularly apprehensive about washing your sofa cover – or if none of the previous advice has worked for you – then here are our top tips:

Contact the Manufacturer

Either visit the website or give the manufacturer a call or email with any specific questions you may have.

There may be a blog you can visit to answer these questions or a company email you can contact.

This is the best way to get the most accurate information regarding your sofa cover, directly from the source.

Only Remove the Sofa Cover if It Is Detachable

Be sure you are only removing your sofa cover if there is a zip, buttons, or other means to safely and easily remove it.

Take care not to tear your covers when removing them, as it may damage your sofa and make the cover difficult to put back on!

For leather sofas and other fabrics that aren’t detachable, you may have to spot-clean them by hand. Double-check the fabric tag to see what kinds of products you can use.

Look Into Professional Cleaning

Depending on the fabric and the type of cleaning needed, you may have to have your sofa professionally cleaned.

Luckily, you can find deals on professional sofa cleaning — the manufacturer may even be able to suggest a good company!

Remember to Spot Clean Stains

Cleaning as you go can be a great preventative measure to lighten the load when it comes to cleaning your sofa cover.

Wipe up spills and spot clean stains as they happen to prevent the formation of stubborn marks and make the next machine wash a bit easier.

Key Takeaways

Cleaning sofa covers can be a finicky process. How you go about it is entirely dependent on the fabric and cleaning instructions.

The first thing you should do when it looks like you need to clean your sofa cover is to check the cleaning code.

From here you can figure out whether you can do a machine wash, or if you have to bust out the spot cleaner and give the sofa a wipe down.

If you spot-clean or vacuum your sofa regularly, you shouldn’t have to worry about washing the cover too much — a full clean every month or so will suffice.

If you’re at a loss when it comes to cleaning your sofa, hopefully our tips will help! Your sofa will be crisp and clean again in no time.

How to Clean a Sofa with Baking Soda

Baking soda is an age-old cleaner and deodoriser that’s both gentle and effective.

As a cleaning agent, baking soda is ideal for people who don’t want to introduce harmful cleaning concoctions into their homes, and for those who are environmentally conscious.

One of its pre-eminent uses is in cleaning furniture – especially old, musty sofas that need refreshing!

In this guide, we’ll explore:

• Why baking soda is ideal for sofa cleaning
• The best baking soda cleaning method
• The tools and ingredients you’ll need for cleaning sofas with baking soda

Without further ado, let’s get sprinkling!

Why You Should Use Baking Soda to Clean Sofas

Effective in Removing Odours

Baking soda is a wonderful odour absorber.

Whether your dog has been sleeping on the couch or you’re carrying out the annual spring clean, you can reach for baking soda to get the job done.

The reason it works so well is quite simple. When you sprinkle baking soda onto your couch, it works to neutralise the odours. It balances the pH of bad smells, which are generally acidic (that’s why your nose scrunches up).

With the acidity gone, baking soda allows your couch to smell fresh once more!

Safe for Most Upholstered Fabrics

In most cases, baking soda will be completely fine on your couch’s fabric. However, it’s best to do a small patch test before covering the whole thing in powder.

Baking soda has a high pH, which means it can damage natural fibres like wool, cashmere, or silk by breaking down the proteins in these fabrics and degrading the fabric as a whole.

Repeated use of excessive amounts of baking soda can also result in your couch feeling rough or coarse. In addition to that, the chemical has the potential to gradually fade colours.

Luckily, most couch upholstery is not wool, cashmere, or silk – so in the majority of cases, baking soda will be harmless!

Easy to Use

You can use baking soda for a wide variety of things: cleaning your drain, brushing your teeth, or getting a stain out of a white t-shirt.

Anyone can pick up a box, packet, or scoop of bulk bin baking soda, take it home, and use it for cleaning. In terms of cleaning your couch, all it takes is a sprinkle.

Baking soda is harmless to you and the environment and requires next to no elbow grease to apply!

Affordable Alternative to Commercial Cleaners

Not only is baking soda blissfully cheap, but it’s also available in virtually all supermarkets and corner shops.

Unless you have a massive stench or stain problem with your couch, you won’t need to fork out hundreds of dollars for professional cleaning.

How to Clean a Sofa with Baking Soda

Now that you have a better appreciation for all the wonders that baking soda has in store for your sofa, it’s time to learn how exactly you should get to work with this chemical:

Materials

While baking soda is the star of the show, you’ll need a few other materials at the ready to make the entire cleaning process faster and more effective.

• Baking soda: You probably already have some in your kitchen or laundry room! If not, visit your local corner shop or supermarket. A little box or packet will be plenty.
• Hand-held vacuum cleaner or vacuum cleaner with an upholstery attachment.
• You’ll need to clean up the baking soda after letting it sit for a while. Instead of going through all the trouble wiping up powder, make the cleanup part stress-free by using a vacuum cleaner.
• Upholstery cleaning brush or any other clean, soft bristled brush. Use this to work the baking soda into the fabric.
• Vinegar-water-soap solution (optional). For really tough stains, baking soda alone might not be enough. Make sure to have a batch of vinegar, water, and soap that you can quickly mix to form a powerful solution.

Procedure

Step 1: Remove Sofa Cushions, If Possible

Whenever possible, remove anything that might get in the way of the baking soda, (which includes the sofa cushions). This is an ideal time to pop the cushion covers into the washing machine.

Step 2: Vacuum Debris (Dirt, Hair, Crumbs)

Before getting to work, make sure that you first have a clean space to work on.

Leaving any dirt, dust, or crumbs on the surface is unhygienic and you’ll risk having them stick to the fabric.

It’s always good practice to ensure that the sofa is free of all debris so that the subsequent cleaning process is more effective.

Step 3: Sprinkle on a Thin, Even Layer of Baking Soda

Now that you have a visually clean surface, it’s time to sprinkle on your baking soda. You don’t need to overdo this — a thin, even layer of the compound will be sufficient.

If you have tougher stains, the additional steps below are recommended. These methods will make any heavy-set marks a lot more manageable.

3.1 Grab Your Vinegar Cleaning Solution

Vinegar, like baking soda, is cheap and widely available. To make a vinegar solution, mix equal parts vinegar and water in a bowl or a spray bottle.

Vinegar, combined with baking soda, is a strong yet safe cleaner. The two ingredients are at opposite extremes of the pH scale, and when they combine a fizzy reaction occurs.

The acidic vinegar breaks down the baking soda, “releasing carbon dioxide gas that can help lift dirt from the surfaces being cleaned.”

It’s important not to use equal parts of baking soda and (undiluted) vinegar for cleaning because the two will essentially just cancel each other out!

You’ll want to stick with an acidic or basic solution (ie, mixing more vinegar or mixing more baking soda) as it’ll be more effective.

3.2 Dab Stains with Solution on Cloth

Don’t feel the need to scrub or completely saturate the areas that don’t have any tough stains.

Simply dab the solution on and apply gentle pressure; this should be enough to do the trick.

Step 4: Brush Gently

The key word here: gently! Don’t scrub or push the baking soda into the fabric; instead, let the chemicals do the work for you.

Each baking soda particle has the mineral structure to provide a gentle abrasive clean without scratching or otherwise damaging the surface.

Step 5: Wait 20–60 minutes

Patience is a vital when using baking soda, Allow the chemical compound to sit and work its magic, cleaning the stains and absorbing the odours of your couch. A good timeframe to wait is around 20 to 60 minutes.

Step 6: Wipe (If with Solution) Or Vacuum Thoroughly

Once the baking soda has done its job, it’s time to vacuum the sofa thoroughly.

Make sure to get into all of the couch’s crevices with the vacuum attachment for a comprehensive cleanup.

If you used a vinegar solution, wipe the areas that were cleaned with a damp cloth.

Step 7: Enjoy Your Fresh-Smelling and Clean-Looking Couch!

Now that it’s clean and fresh, your couch is ready for you, your family, and guests to enjoy!

The Bottom Line

Baking soda is cheap, readily accessible, and very effective. Add it to your home cleaning toolkit and you’ll be amazed by what it can do.

Anytime your couch is stained or smells a bit funky, follow the steps we’ve detailed above to remedy the problem.

And as soon as you’re done, you’ll be rewarded with the bright, fresh scent of a clean sofa — something that you’re sure to love!

How to Remove Odours (Smells) From a Sofa

Sofas are one of the most-used pieces of furniture in many homes – and for good reason!

After all, there’s nothing better than a comfy couch to curl up on for a movie night or to flop on after a hard day.

But due to their frequent use, sofas can become a bit smelly at times. This is typically courtesy of a buildup of dirt, food crumbs, or messes from pets, kids, and general use (or a combination of all of those things).

Luckily, there are plenty of ways to get your sofa smelling fresh and new again! In this guide, we’ll cover a few of the most effective tricks, including:

• Tips for prepping to clean your sofa
• Our top 7 ways to remove odours from your sofa.

Let’s get straight into it so you can get your sofa smelling fresh once more!

Preparation Tips

Before you get going, there are a few important things to check so that everything goes as smoothly as possible:

Inspect Your Sofa, and Read the Manual

Different materials will react differently to certain cleaning agents, so it’s important to know what you’re working with.

If you’ve purchased your sofa new, you should have received a manual with it that will include a fabric specification and cleaning guide.

If you got your couch second-hand (or lost the manual — don’t worry, it happens), have a look online to identify the fabric and see which cleaning tip is right for you!

Vacuum

We’re here to help you tackle the sticky odours in your sofa, but it’s key to clean the crumbs up first.

Quickly vacuum your sofa before getting started. It’s also a good idea to remove the cushions (if they’re removable) and vacuum the area that they cover, the cushions themselves, and the backrest and armrests of the couch.

If the cushions or any throw pillows have removable covers, try running these through a wash cycle along with any blankets (or anything else) on the sofa. This could potentially be a quick fix for the problem!

7 Ways To Remove Odours (Smells) From a Sofa

Let Some Sunshine In

A good first step is to open up some curtains!

UV rays from sunlight work naturally to deodorise your sofa, and they don’t cost a thing.

Open up a window at the same time (if the weather allows) to really freshen up the whole space.

White Vinegar

You probably already have white vinegar around the house. If not: it’s cheap, easily available, and an effective way to get smells out of your sofa. Simply:

• Fill a spray bottle with a cup of warm water and a half cup of vinegar
• Spray the solution onto the sofa, targeting any noticeable stains
• Make sure you just get the material damp — you don’t want it to soak into the cushioning
• Wait a few minutes
• Gently dab the sofa with a clean cloth or paper towel to remove excess moisture
• If there are tough stains, scrub in circular motions until they are less noticeable
• Let the sofa air dry

Try adding some dishwashing liquid to your solution if you want an extra kick!

Bicarbonate of Soda

Bicarbonate of soda is another household product you probably already have on hand, and it makes for one of the easiest ways to deodorise your sofa!

Get rid of those stubborn smells in just a few quick steps:

• Sprinkle the bicarbonate of soda all over the sofa, leaving it evenly coated without any clumps
• Let it sit for at least fifteen minutes, and up to overnight if you’re able
• Vacuum the excess powder up

It’s as easy as that.

Bicarbonate of soda is amazing at absorbing unwanted smells — you can even use it on your clothing and in your fridge!

Activated Charcoal

If you’re wanting to step it up a level, activated charcoal is an even more powerful scent absorber than bicarbonate of soda.

You can technically use it the same way you would use bicarb. However it can stain, so it’s not the best choice to sprinkle onto a sofa — especially if you have a light-coloured couch.

Instead, try getting some charcoal freshening bags to stick under the cushions or behind your sofa. These will work as an ongoing scent defender.

Essential Oils

Essential oils are an excellent, chemical-free way to not only remove bad odours from your furniture but also to make it smell amazing.

You can either get a diffuser to fill the whole room with the oil of your choice (lemon, lavender, and tea tree are popular choices, if you don’t know what to try) or spray it directly on your sofa after diluting with water.

DIY Fabric Freshener Mix

Why not combine some of these tricks to combat a really stubborn, smelly sofa?

Adding essential oils to your vinegar and water solution can give you a powerful cleaning agent with a delightful scent.

Another option is to use vodka combined with warm water and liquid dish soap. This boozy solution works great on couches, fabrics, and even the carpet in a pinch!

Make Scented Sachets

If you’re looking for a longer-term, more hands-off solution: why not try making scented sachets?

Once you’ve got your sachet bags, the choice of scent is really up to you. These little packets will work for much longer and keep your sofa (and your home) smelling spectacular.

Try mixing a few drops of your favourite essential oil with some dry rice, or add in things like dried lavender, lemon rinds, or other plants and herbs for a natural, fragrant odour solution.

The Bottom Line

There are so many ways to get your sofa to smell fresh again!

To recap:

• Make sure you treat the sofa material in whichever method is most suitable
• Vacuum up any debris before you start
• Open the curtains and windows to let natural sunshine and fresh air help remove any smells and freshen up your space
• If you need to, you can also use the following to deodorise your sofa:

1. White vinegar
2. Bicarbonate of soda
3. Activated charcoal
4. Essential oils
5. Scented sachets
6. A combination of all of the above.

With these simple household items, you can get rid of unpleasant odours efficiently and get back to relaxing on your couch!

How to Remove Tricky Red Wine Stains from a Sofa

If there’s one thing you can be sure about, it’s that accidents happen. Whether your sofa is pristine white, or a smooth, elegant blue sofa – we all share a common enemy and that’s staining. Of all the types of stains, one is guaranteed to strike fear into the heart of anyone, and that’s red wine. No matter the size of the stain, or whether you got to enjoy the glass before it spilt; rest assured that it can be dealt with. With our guide, we’re sure your sofa will be clean, clear, and comfortable in next to no time.

5 options to pick from

We know that not everyone has access to the same accessories and cleaning agents, so before we dive in, why not take a look at 5 of the most effective options at your disposal, that you can often find around the home or in supermarkets?

• Vinegar and soda – ideal for a deep clean that can lift stains and clean right into the fibers of your sofa and leave them looking fresh
• White wine – fighting fire with fire in a simple, effective way that won’t risk damaging your sofa
• Washing up liquid – not just for the dishes, but ideal for neutralising and lifting away even the most stubborn stain
• Hydrogen peroxide – clean, clear and show dirt who’s boss with one of the most effective anti-staining chemicals on the market
• The softly/softly method – is perfect if you’re still a little traumatised from the spill and have the time to act fast to prevent the wine from sinking in too deep

1) Vinegar and soda, a match made in heaven

You might not know this, but vinegar contains an active ingredient capable of breaking down other acids, and as red wine is acidic, it’s a natural enemy. Soda on the other hand compartmentalises on contact and will react with vinegar, creating a foaming formula capable of lifting even the most stubborn stain.
All that you’ll need is: White vinegar, baking soda

Creating the formula

First, pour the baking soda generously over the stain until you can only see a soft, pink tone underneath the white of the soda. Next, gently pour white vinegar over the soda and wait for a little reaction. You should see some bubbling and possibly the sound of terrified red wine knowing that its days are numbered. Lastly, wait a few minutes and then begin pressing a clean, white (or light coloured) cloth into the stain, rubbing in circular motions. Simply repeat this process until the stain is lifted away.

2) White wine

They say that the enemy of my enemy is my friend, and that’s certainly the case when facing white and red wine against each other. Make sure the wine is white, however, as even slightly darker types can leave their own stain which is the last thing you’ll want to do.
Here’s what you’ll need: White wine, baking soda

Prepare for Battle

The first thing you need to do is prepare the stain for the attack. Do so by pouring white wine over the entire area and allowing it a few moments to properly sink in. After a few minutes, add some baking soda and gently massage it in to create a lather. Allow a few more minutes to pass and then use a clean cloth to press and extract the liquid – which should have dissipated and dispersed the red wine stain. Repeat as needed.

3) Washing your woes away

Not many people realise this, but washing-up liquid contains an ingredient that degreases anything it touches. That’s why it’s so good for the dishes – it traps and then lifts oil and grease away by destroying the molecules that bond it together to give a smooth, flawless finish.
You’ll need: Washing-up liquid, a bottle of cold water

First of all, create a formula of washing-up liquid and water at a ratio of 1:2 (1 part liquid, 2 parts cold water). Give it a stir and let it settle for a few moments. Use a sponge to absorb the mixture and start massaging the stain. You’ll notice that the red colour will dissipate gradually, but be sure to massage gently to really allow time for the degreasing properties to take effect.

4) Hydrogen peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide has been used for centuries to bleach, whiten and remove stains. Although it can be abrasive (so use with caution sparingly), it’s certainly an effective destroyer of red wine stains, as well as mud, dirt, grime, and everything in between.
Things you’ll need: Hydrogen peroxide, baking soda
First of all, prepare for a foamy, bubbly reaction as you mix the baking soda and hydrogen peroxide. Pour baking soda over the stain and allow it to sit and absorb any still-wet residue from the wine. Now, carefully pour hydrogen peroxide over the baking soda and you should see an instant reaction. This is good because the reaction will begin breaking down the red wine particles in the fibers of your sofa. Finally, begin rubbing the formula with a clean, damp cloth and you should start to see the stain disappear.

5) Softly does it

Depending on when the spillage took place, the quicker you react, the easier your stain removal will be. If the wine is still wet, grab a clean, damp cloth and place it on top of the red wine on the sofa and follow these instructions:
With the cloth on top of the stain, press it into the sofa with your knuckles and fingertips. This will help to absorb the excess red wine. Although the stain won’t be removed, you’ll have stopped the red wine from penetrating too deeply and the quicker you act, the quicker you can choose one of the above methods to finish the job.

Final thoughts

And there you have it, a simple guide to removing red wine from your sofa. Keep in mind that the different ingredients mentioned have varying properties. Hydrogen peroxide is considered a catalyst and although effective on its own, when combined with baking soda it becomes a true powerhouse.
White wine and vinegar are actually from the same line of ingredients and both are acids capable of combatting other acidic liquids. Washing-up liquid is a degreaser as mentioned and it’s ideal for removing stubborn stains. Whichever option you go for, don’t give up until the red wine has left the building – or at least until you’re ready to pour yourself another glass and put your feet up after a hard day’s work.

Deep Cleaning Sofas: How to Scrub A Couch Clean

As one of the key furniture pieces in the entire home, not only will you want your sofa to match your decor and be comfortable, but ensure that it is clean and lasts as long as possible.

As sofas are heavily used, it can be especially important to ensure that they stay in top condition for as long as possible – and using deep cleaning methods at least once a year can be a worthwhile idea. There will be times when you will need to spot-clean and frequent vacuuming will likely be necessary if you have kids or pets, but ensuring that you properly care for your sofa can have a big impact on your home and potentially even your health.

Basic care information for fabric sofas

Not all sofas are made out of material, but the majority of them are, so it can be worthwhile to take a look at the needs of your specific sofas before approaching them with water or any cleaning supplies or chemicals.
Different materials will have different needs when it comes to cleaning, so it can be important to take a look at the manufacturer’s instructions before moving forward. These can typically be found under the cushions and will feature symbols that comprise a cleaning code to help you define the right way to proceed. The most common symbols are:
W – Water-based cleaners only
S – Solvent-based cleaner (dry clean only)
W/S – Safe for water-based and solvent-based cleaners
X – Vacuum only
You may not know that many fabric sofas are pre-treated with specialist substances to prevent stains and the methods you use for cleaning could reduce the effectiveness of these or even invalidate your warranty if you haven’t had your sofa for long. It is always advisable to do a spot test before cleaning and a top tip when doing so is to use a white cloth so you can check the colour fastness of the material.

Cleaning your upholstery by hand

Dry methods

For a basic sofa clean, it can be a good idea to use a stiff-bristled brush before vacuuming and then doing a quick check for any spot treatment needs.
While a host of sofa designs will feature cushions that can be taken off and that have removable covers, there are still many models out there that won’t allow for constituent parts to be removed and put into the washing machine. If this is the case for your sofa, consider the following deep clean method:
Start with the basic cleaning steps and then sprinkle baking soda across the back, arms and cushions of your sofa and leave it for around 30 minutes. Once it has been left to sit, vacuum it off and then treat any spot stains that may remain.
To help homeowners keep things in extra good condition, you can now purchase dry cleaning cloths from most high street stores – and these will come complete with their own dry cleaning solution to help to remove dried-on stains. All you’ll have to do is simply remove one from the packet and use it when needed. Different brands will have different uses, so be sure to check the instructions on the label of the one you buy (some may be heat activated, so it can be a good idea to use a hair dryer to warm them up and ensure they function as well as possible).

Using water

When it comes to cleaning a sofa using water, you may worry that a specialist sofa cleaning solution will either be extremely expensive or difficult to use, as you won’t have specialist knowledge. The good news is that this isn’t typically the case, as there are many brands on the market that have been designed specifically for home use. You can also use carpet cleaners to clean sofas, but of course no matter what you use, always do a spot check in an inconspicuous area.
Always begin by vacuuming and try not to use too much water, because your sofa could potentially suffer from damp and mould down the line if the moisture doesn’t have time to dry out. If you are using an electric upholstery cleaner, the suction feature can help to remove excess water, but if this isn’t the case, you can always use old towels (if you have a light-coloured sofa, beware of colour transfer). Once everything is done, let your sofa air dry and if the cushions are removable, remember to keep them separate.

Steam cleaning

Steam cleaners can be a handy solution for many homes, as they are easy to use, quick and will be suitable for a host of fabrics. Plenty of steam cleaners come complete with upholstery attachments, so all you’ll need to do is follow the instructions given with your model and avoid the steam that emanates to avoid getting burned.
The best way to steam clean a sofa is by removing the cushions and using quick strokes to steam one side of each, allowing it to dry and then turning it over to treat the second side. Move onto the frame of the sofa and work in small sections, so that everything is covered. Always allow your sofa to air dry before replacing the cushions once everything is complete.

Stain removal

Even if you don’t have children or pets, getting stains on your sofa is unavoidable, especially as these are integral parts of our living spaces. We often eat and drink while sitting on them as part of everyday life and many fabrics will even show some marks if you spill water.
Luckily, water marks can be removed if the fabric isn’t water resistant and this can be done with half a cup of white vinegar and 2 cups of distilled water in a spray bottle. Work your way in from the outside of the stain, towards the centre, and blot it as you go with a microfiber cloth. Once this is done, use a hair dryer to quickly dry out the solution you have added, as this will stop a new stain from appearing in its place.
If you find yourself with a more stubborn stain, like grease or similar food stains, it’s an insider tip that dish soap will be your best bet. All you’ll need to do is add a teaspoon of this to two cups of water and blot the stain using a light-coloured cloth. If your sofa isn’t water resistant and you are reluctant to use dish soap as it may leave a watermark, look for dry cleaning cloths that are able to remove grease, as these are also widely available.

Get a fresh clean sofa with little fuss

While sofas are often some of the biggest items of furniture around the home, they can be so simple to clean that it doesn’t have to take more than an hour of your day (even for full cleaning treatments).
A good rule of thumb is to always maintain your sofa along with your everyday cleaning habits by just giving it a brush or a vacuum as little as once a week. Always aim to treat stains as they happen and do a full deep clean or sanitisation once a year.

How To Clean A Fabric Sofa

You probably sit on your couch every day. It’s where you go to cuddle with family, partners or even your pets. It’s also where you sit to watch TV, drink a cup of tea and unwind. Naturally, you want to feel relaxed when you’re sitting on the couch, which means you want it to be clean and odour-free – but when was the last time you cleaned your sofa?

If you’re not quite sure of the answer, or if you have any visible stains or odours, it’s probably been too long since your sofa has had a good clean. So, in this article, we’ll cover all of our best tips on how to clean your favourite fabric sofas as well as how often you need to do it.

How Often Should I Clean My Sofa?

Keeping your sofa clean should be a real priority for any homeowner – particularly if you have children or pets. Leaving it too long to clean the fabric on your couch could lead to bacteria build-up, mould growth, and unpleasant smells. However, there are certain types of cleaning that are better to do at different stages.

Regular, Weekly Cleaning

When it comes to cleaning your fabric sofa, little and often should be your methodology. This is because It’s much easier to tackle any dirt as it arises than leaving it to deal with later.

So, in terms of regular weekly cleaning, you should:

• Vacuum the surface of the fabric to remove any pet hair or crumbs.
• Lift the sofa cushions to vacuum underneath.
• Wipe down any small stains that accumulate.
• Wipe any larger stains immediately rather than waiting – the longer you leave a stain, the more difficult it is to remove.
• Use a non-staining fabric freshener or odour eliminator to keep your sofa smelling fresh.

Heavy Duty, Deeper Cleans

You should think about giving the surface fabric of your sofa a deeper clean once every few months. This will prevent stain build-up, remove dust and dust mites as well as keeping your sofa odour free.

In addition, once a year you should have your sofa cleaned by a professional who could use a method such as steam cleaning or dry cleaning. This will make sure any dirt, dust and odours aren’t collecting in the cushion stuffing or in the upholstery.

An easy way to make this much simpler is to opt for a high-quality faux leather sofa instead of a fabric one. These clean way easier than fabric sofas.

What Is the Best Way To Clean A Fabric Sofa?

When choosing a cleaning method for your sofa, you have lots of different options. However, there’s not necessarily one best method because the one you choose will depend on your sofa specifically as well as your own needs.

The best way to clean your fabric sofa may vary depending on:

• The exact fabric used.
• How long it’s been since you’ve cleaned it.
• Whether you have any allergies to harsh cleaning products.
• Whether you’d rather use a chemical or a natural cleaner.
• The type of dirt on your sofa – from red wine, to coffee, to pet fur, each comes with its own recommended cleaning method.
• The manufacturer’s instructions.
• The colour of your sofa

Always Check The Manufacturer’s Instructions

Before we give any advice on how to clean a fabric sofa, the most important thing is to check the manufacturer’s instructions and any labels to avoid causing any damage or discolouration.

You should look out for upholstery cleaning labels with specific codes including:

• ‘W’ – Spot clean with water. (This doesn’t mean machine washable.)
• ‘S’ – Do not use water. Spot clean with solvent based fabric cleaner or dry clean.
• ‘SW’ – Use water or solvent based cleaners for spot cleaning. Dry clean also suitable.
• X – Only use a vacuum cleaner.

What Is The Best Fabric Cleaner For A Couch?

When it comes to the best fabric cleaner for your couch you have a few different options depending on the type of spillage, the type of couch as well as whether you’re looking for a spot clean or a deep clean. Just remember, if you have a beautiful crushed velvet sofa, you will want to consider a different cleaning method to some of those below.

Vacuum Cleaner

The least invasive way to clean your couch is to use your vacuum cleaner with its upholstery attachment to hoover crumbs and pet hair from the surface fabric as well as under the couch cushions.

Using A Dry Cloth

If you’ve spilt some water or a clear liquid onto the couch, the best way to clean the fabric is to use a dry cloth to soak up the spill. Make sure to push firmly into the couch and remove the cushion cover if you can to make sure you’ve absorbed all of the liquid. Otherwise, you could risk mould growth or mildew. Then, simply leave the couch and cushion uncovered to air dry.

Baking Soda And White Vinegar

Whilst baking soda and white vinegar won’t give your couch a deep clean, they are great deodorisers and spot-cleaners. You can make a cleaning solution with warm water, 1 tablespoon of baking soda and a few drops of vinegar in a clean, empty spray bottle. Then, spray this lightly over sofas labelled with a ‘W’ to get rid of any nasty smells. You can also use a paste of baking soda and water to remove small stains.

Water Based Cleaners

If your sofa has a ‘W’ on the label, it is able to be cleaned using a water-based cleanser such as:

• Dish soap and water – Dish soap is great for removing any oil stains or build-up as it cuts through fat easily. Therefore, if you’ve had any oily spills or food spills on your sofa, add half a teaspoon of clear dish soap to a litre of water. Then, gently rub the stain with a non-dyed cloth.
• Carpet cleaner – A water-based carpet cleaner can also be used to spot clean as long as your sofa is water-compatible.
• Steam cleaning – If your sofa needs a deeper clean, you can use a steam cleaner. This is a good option for those who want to avoid harsh chemicals or solvents. It’s also a good deodoriser. However, you should hire a qualified professional in order to avoid causing damage.
• Washing machine – Not all water-compatible sofa fabrics can be washed in a machine. However, if you’ve specifically purchased a machine washable sofa, you can remove cushion covers and pop these in at a low temperature. However, always make sure to follow manufacturer’s guidelines.
• Detergent – You can also remove cushion covers and leave them to soak in a tub filled with lukewarm water and liquid detergent for a good, general clean.

Solvent Based Cleaners

Sofas made with materials like cotton, rayon, silk, and other organic fibres are unable to be cleaned with water due to the fact that this makes the fabrics swell. So, if you’ve got any of these materials in your couch, or it has a label with an ‘S,’ you’ll need to use a solvent-based cleaner instead.

Solvent-based cleaners are particularly good at removing greasy spills from sofas. Start by using a semi-stiff brush to rub any crumbs and dirt away, then use your solvent-based cleaner to remove grime.

How Do You Deep Clean A Fabric Sofa?

The best deep-cleaning method for your fabric sofa depends on its material as well as the type of spillage. Some of the most common deep cleaning solutions for popular stubborn stains include:

• Coffee – Blot the stain and use liquid detergent mixed with water. For milky coffees, use a cleaner such as dish soap or a carpet cleaning solution that cuts through grease. Blotting with vinegar and lukewarm water can also be effective.
• Red wine – Blot the wine as much as possible. Then, make a paste out of baking soda and water, scrubbing this into the couch. For best results, use a stain-remover spray.
• Dusty sofa – A heat-based cleaning method such as steam cleaning is the best way to remove dust, dust mites and bacteria. Then, use an antibacterial fabric spray to keep your sofa fresh.
• Nasty smells – Baking soda is a natural deodoriser and is great for absorbing smells. Sprinkle dry baking soda over your couch fabric and even the cushions once the cushion covers are removed. Gently rub the baking soda around and let it sit. Then hoover. You can also use an odour eliminator spray.

Remember, if you’re unsure, always consult a professional and remember to check your sofa label to check if it’s water-compatible or not.

How Do You Clean A Light Fabric Sofa?

The best way to clean a light fabric sofa is with clear liquids and a cloth. For a stain or just for a general clean, combine equal parts white vinegar and water in a jug or bowl and gently blot or wipe your couch. You should also make sure you’re not using too much and making the sofa too wet, as this can lead to mould.

You can also use a stain removal spray or powder as long as this is compatible with your sofa’s fabric.

You should also be really careful with the type of cloth you’re using to clean your light fabric sofa. This is because some types of fabric cleaner as well as rubbing the cloth onto the sofa can cause colours to run which can lead to even more staining.

Always make sure to spot test any cleaner or cleaning method on an inconspicuous area if the couch to make extra sure you won’t make any further stains or discolour the fabric.

Time To Get Cleaning

There you have it – our best top tips for cleaning sofas, fabric furniture and upholstery. For sofas compatible with water cleaners, a baking soda and vinegar solution, dish soap or steam cleaners will do the trick. Whereas, for sofas with organic fabric, you’ll need to use a solvent-based cleaner or take your fabric to the dry cleaner.

Just always remember to check your sofa’s label, test any cleaners on a small area of the fabric and consult a professional when in doubt or for any deep cleaning needs.