We all like lounging on a dirty sofa, but it’s not much fun. Crumbs, spills of soda, pet hair, dirt and oil from your hands and feet accumulate over time on your couch and make it look filthy. There is no need to be concerned. Here’s how to clean a sofa so that it’s ready for you to binge-watch an entire season of your favourite TV program.
Vacuum the Sofa
To clean the sofa surface, use a hand vacuum or a brush attachment on your vacuum. Remove any loose cushions and vacuum both sides if they aren’t attached.
Clean the Wood or Metal Surfaces
With a solution of warm water and liquid dish soap, clean the sofa feet and other non-fabric components of the sofa.
Examine the Fabric for Type
Find the tag on the sofa and follow the instructions for cleaning upholstery. On labels, these are the core values:
- WS: Use a mild detergent, such as BOLD, with a steam vacuum or a dry-cleaning detergent instead.
- S: Only a dry cleaner detergent should be used.
- X: Vacuum only. No water is required.
- W: You can clean it with water.
Remove Stains
It is also necessary to understand how to clean a couch in order to eliminate stains. You may use a commercial cleaner or create your own from natural ingredients you already have in your home. Homemade cleaners are more cost-effective and environmentally friendly.
Here’s the guide to cleaning a sofa by fabric type:
For upholstery made of fabric: 1/4 cup vinegar, 3/4 cup warm water, and 1 tablespoon dish soap or Castile soap are combined in a spray bottle. The soiled area is lightly sprayed with the solution. Wipe off any stains using a soft cloth until they disappear. To remove the soap, use a clean towel after drying it with another one.
For leather furniture: Combine 1/2 cup olive oil and 1/4 cup vinegar in a spray bottle. Spray the couch surface and buff it with a soft cloth to clean it.
For synthetic upholstery: In a spray bottle, combine 1/2 cup vinegar, 1 cup warm water, and 1/2 tablespoon liquid dish soap or Castile soap. Wipe the spot clean with a soft cloth until the stain is gone.
Allow the Couch to Dry
Allow the sofa to dry fully before replacing, cushions and all. A towel is handy for absorbing any excess water from the furniture surface. Allow the sofa to air dry if necessary. Set up a box fan blowing toward the sofa for efficient drying if it’s humid. Water may cause cushions and fabric to mildew.