Sofa cleaning: how to clean a couch and cushions at home

Your complete guide to how to clean a couch, no matter what material it’s made from.

Updated 12 July 2023

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Author By Cleanipedia Team

Reading Time 5 minutes

An orange pillow on a white couch with a pair of blue slippers on a wooden floor. In the home

A good couch is a must in every home and keeping yours clean is very important! Whether it has suffered a stain or is just in need of some care to make it look brand new again, we’ve got plenty of sofa cleaning tips, tricks, and advice for you to follow.

When sofa cleaning at home, always be sure to check the care label follow the wash instructions it provides.

How to clean a couch: step-by-step

1) Start by vacuuming 

Clear everything away. Take off the cushions and pick up any pens, remote controls and coins that might have fallen in between them. Then, use a soft brush attachment on your vacuum to clear the dirt and dust, making sure to get into the corners and hard to reach areas.

2) Read the care tags to learn how to clean a sofa

Check the care tag on your couch to see what the recommended cleaning method is. The process of how to clean a fabric sofa at home will differ from material to material so what works for one couch may not be best for you.

3) Spot clean any stains

Before washing your whole sofa, pot clean any stains. If your couch isn't very dirty this might be all that's required:

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    Treat the stain with a mixture of warm water and detergent, such as OMO Auto Liquid. 

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    Test it on a small section of the couch to make sure it doesn’t damage the fabric.

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    Apply the mix with a clean cloth and don’t get the sofa too wet.

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    Never rub a stain - just dab gently.

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    'Rinse' the area by patting it with a clean cloth dipped in clean water.

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    Let it dry naturally.

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    To get rid of smells, sprinkle baking soda over the fabric, leave it to settle, then vacuum off.

4) Wash your sofa

The final step is washing the sofa itself. Only do this if it is safe - check the care label again and make sure washing won't cause any damage. Remove the covers from your sofa cushions and wash them in the machine or by hand, using a gentle detergent.

An infographic titled

How to clean a fabric sofa without removable covers

If your couch doesn’t have covers that you can take off, there are still ways that you can wash it  - just remember to read the care instructions first! Try upholstery cleaners, being sure to follow the directions on the label, or hire a steam cleaner for a deeper clean. 

How to clean a leather sofa

The best way to clean a leather sofa is with a specialist product, not water and soap which can damage the material. Keep your leather sofa protected by vacuuming away dirt using a gentle brush attachment and using specialist leather wax or cleaner to treat the material. Apply the wax after reading the directions on the label and wipe away any excess. To treat mould and other stains on the leather, create a mild mixture of water and vinegar, spray it onto the couch, and buff it with a clean cloth.

Whether your sofa has got a simple stain or is in need of a deep clean, our steps will help you get it looking great in no time. Just remember to always read the labels of products you use, follow the instructions carefully, and test any new cleaning methods on a small area first to avoid damage or mishaps.

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    Vacuum your couch at least once a week to stop dust or dirt from collecting.

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    Never soak your couch in water, especially if it’s made from leather.

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    Use a steam cleaner if your sofa covers aren't removable (fabric sofas only).

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    Always check the care label on your sofa before cleaning.

FAQs

  • What is the best method to clean a couch and cushions at home?

    The best method to clean a couch and cushions at home depends on the fabric and type of stains. Vacuuming regularly and spot-cleaning spills immediately are good practices. For deeper cleaning, refer to the manufacturer's instructions or use appropriate cleaning methods such as steam cleaning or upholstery shampooing.

  • Can I clean all types of couch fabrics at home?

    While many couch fabrics can be cleaned at home, it's crucial to check the care label and manufacturer's instructions. Some fabrics may require professional cleaning or have specific cleaning recommendations. Always perform a spot test in an inconspicuous area before cleaning the entire couch or cushions.

  • How often should I clean my couch and cushions?

    The frequency of cleaning depends on usage, household factors, and personal preference. Generally, it's recommended to vacuum the couch and cushions once a week to remove loose dirt and debris. Deep cleaning can be done every 6-12 months, or as needed if there are stains or odours.

  • Can I machine wash my couch cushions?

    Not all couch cushions are machine washable. Always check the care label or manufacturer's instructions to determine if machine washing is suitable for your cushions. If they are machine washable, follow the recommended instructions, such as using a gentle cycle and mild detergent. For non-removable cushion covers, spot cleaning or professional cleaning may be necessary.

  • Are there any preventive measures to keep my couch and cushions clean?

    Yes, there are several preventive measures to maintain the cleanliness of your couch and cushions. Avoid eating or drinking on the couch to prevent spills and stains. Use removable and washable covers for added protection. Place throw blankets or covers to shield the upholstery from pets or excessive wear. Regularly vacuuming and dusting the area around the couch can also help reduce dirt and debris accumulation.

  • Can I use a steam cleaner to clean my couch?

    Steam cleaning can be an effective method to deep clean some couch fabrics. However, it's crucial to check the care label and manufacturer's instructions to ensure that steam cleaning is suitable for your couch. Some fabrics may not tolerate high heat or moisture, and using a steam cleaner incorrectly can cause damage. If unsure, consult a professional cleaner.

  • How long does it take for a couch to dry after cleaning?

    The drying time after cleaning depends on various factors, such as the fabric type, cleaning method used, and environmental conditions. It can range from a few hours to a day or longer. To speed up the drying process, ensure proper ventilation, use fans, or open windows. Avoid using the couch until it is completely dry to prevent mould or mildew growth.

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