Guide On How To Wash Couch Cushions

Thanks to COVID-19, most families have been spending a lot more time at home. From working Moms and Dads to school-going kids, more time is being spent working from home as well as enjoying down time on the couch. This has meant that our trusty, comfy couches are getting a lot more “bum” time than usual, leaving them slightly dirtier than they used to be.

If your couch is looking a little worse for wear but you don’t want to wash it too often (or perhaps you can’t wash it) sometimes just giving the cushion covers a good wash helps to give the couch a new lease on life.

Washing cushions is an easy enough task and the real trick to washing couch cushions is using the right method and products for the right material type. Here is a quick guide on how to wash the four most popular cushion types we find in lounges, cotton, leather, and suede:

What’s The Best Way To Wash Couch Cushions?

Below is the best way to clean couch cushions based on the material they are made of.

Cotton/Cotton Blend

One of the most popular fabrics for couch cushions is cotton or a cotton blend. They also tend to be one of the easiest material types to clean.

• Vacuum the covers to get rid of any excess dust and dirt.

• Check the care label to see if there are any restrictions to the washing instruction like hand-wash only or only cold wash.

• Spot clean stains on the cover before washing by using a mix of OMO hand washing powder and water. Be sure not to scrub the area to rub the mixture vigorously but rather gently into the stain and leave for 10 – 15 minutes.

• Place the cushion covers in the washing machine on a gentle cycle (or cotton cycle if they are pure cotton) and be sure to use a good quality laundry detergent like Skip Anti-Ageing Washing Powder to keep colours from fading.

• Hang out to dry in warm sun but try to avoid very harsh, direct sunlight.

Leather

Leather cushions can definitely not be cleaned in the washing machine or emersed in water for a hand wash at home. For best results rather send your leather cushions into a dry cleaner for a professional cleaning service. If you are just wanting to spot clean them, then use a commercial leather cleaning product that is diluted in water and gently rub the stain with a soft cloth.

Suede

Suede is also a very popular choice when it comes to cushions thanks to the lovely rich textures they offer. Wondering how to clean sofa cushions made of suede? Here’s how:

• As with cotton and blends, first vacuum your suede cushions to remove any debris or dust from them.

• Take a soft rubbing cloth or suede brush and give your cushions a thorough rub down. In a circular motion, rub the suede all over which will help to restore the fabric’s lustre and give it a polished look.

• For stained suede cushions, mix equal parts rubbing alcohol with warm water. Take a soft cloth and dab it in the solution (make sure the cloth is not too wet). Gently dab the damp cloth on your cushion and rub the stain softly.

• Once dried, give the cushion a final rub down with the suede brush once more.

The Best Way To Wash Couch Cushions

Can You Wash Couch Cushions In The Washing Machine?

Wondering how to clean couch cushions in the washing machine? The answer will really depend on the type of fabric your cushion is made of. Always check the care label first and find out if it can go into a washing machine before simply just chucking it in.

If you’re looking for some fun DIY couch projects, check out our article on how to cover your couch and even make your own couch covers! With a little time on your hands and some creativity, it’s amazing what we can achieve.