Fabric sofa, couches, and armchairs are very popular because of their comfort and durability, but even the best fabric needs to be cleaned regularly especially before Christmas to keep it in top condition. Most sofas need to be thoroughly cleaned once or twice a year, but some fabric furniture requires more gentle maintenance, like vacuuming once a month and dealing with stains and spills as soon as you find them. Whether the time for regular cleaning has passed or you just want to make sure an occasional stain doesn’t disappear, our experts know how to clean a fabric sofa to keep it looking new.
How to clean a fabric couch
The first thing to do is check the manufacturer’s instructions. Many upholstered sofas are pre-treated to prevent stains, but some cleaning products can reduce the effectiveness of the treatment or even void the sofa’s warranty.
Many upholstered sofas come with cleaning recommendations on the label. Typical cleaning codes and their meanings can be found here. The sofa label is usually located under the cushions.
Cleaning codes for fabric upholstered furniture
W Use water-based cleaners for this fabric.
S Use solvent-based cleaners (dry cleaning only).
W/S Solvent-based or water-based cleaners may be used.
X Do not use water or solvent-based cleaners, use vacuum and brushes only.
Always test your sofa in an inconspicuous area before cleaning. This will ensure that you don’t damage the surface of the fabric. You should also wipe a small area with a white cloth and your preferred cleaning product to ensure that no paint drips. If the paint has dripped onto the fabric, do not use the cleaner on the entire sofa.
Cleaning upholstery without a machine
Steam cleaning is an effective way to remove stains from a fabric sofa and give it new life, but it’s not the only solution. Cleaning couches in Sydney can be as simple as a brush, a vacuum, and some oil.
Follow these simple steps to clean your upholstered sofa.
- Use a stiff bristle brush to remove crumbs and dirt.
- Vacuum the sofa with the brush tip.
- For stubborn stains, apply an appropriate cleaning solution.
- Let the sofa air dry.
How to clean couch cushions
If your sofa is upholstered and has removable cushions, you can clean them separately. Read the cleaning instructions on the label first. Some upholstered cushion covers can be machine washed. If this applies to your cushion, please remove the cover and wash it.
To wash foam cushions, pour a small amount of hand washes mild detergent into a basin of warm water. Dip the cushion, squeeze it and let the water and soap soak into the foam. Scrub the stain and then rinse with clean water to remove all soap residue. Let the pillow dry naturally and turn it over occasionally to prevent water from pooling in or under the pillow.
If the pillow cannot be washed, take it outside and blot it. This way, any dust or dirt will be removed. If there is dirt, treat it with an appropriate cleaning agent or steam clean the sofa with the code “W” or “WS” on the label. Sofas with the code X or S cannot be steam cleaned.
Now you know how to clean your sofa upholstery at home.
How to deep clean your sofa
Sometimes normal cleaning just isn’t enough and your sofa needs a deep clean. Children, pets, and even clumsy adults can cause stains that need to be removed. Whether you want to maintain your family sofa or clean and disinfect a used sofa, you’ll learn here how to make it look new.
- Brush the sofa to remove crumbs, dirt, and hair.
- use the Hoover brush attachment for a more thorough cleaning.
- If possible, remove the cushions and clean them separately.
- sprinkle the sofa with baking soda and let it soak for 20-30 minutes.
- Vacuum up the baking soda.
- Spread the stain.
- Let the sofa air dry.
Clean your fabric sofa yourself
There are many fabric-specific cleaners on the market, but you don’t have to spend a fortune to clean your sofa. These DIY cleaners can be used for a wide variety of fabrics. Just be sure to check the label and look at the inconspicuous areas first. And don’t forget to check the label on your sofa to make sure you’re using the right solution.
How to clean a fabric sofa with vinegar
White vinegar works well on tough stains and is safe for most fabrics. This makes it ideal for cleaning fabric sofas naturally. Prepare the following solution and rub it on the stain. Do not soak or scrub the sofa, as the stain may spread.
- 1 cup warm water
- 1 cup of white vinegar
- Optional: 1 teaspoon of dishwashing liquid.
How do I clean an upholstered sofa with detergent?
Always use a detergent that is appropriate for the fabric. You can buy special detergents for upholstery or use a mild soap for handwashing. You can also prepare the following solution and apply it to the stain with a sponge. Don’t let the stain get too wet. When the stain begins to loosen, dab it with clean water to remove the detergent, then absorb the excess water with a paper towel.
- 2 cups of water
- 1 teaspoon of detergent
How to clean a fabric sofa without water
One of the best ways to remove stains is to use baking soda, especially for wet stains. Sprinkle the baking soda on the stain and leave it on for 20 to 30 minutes (or until the baking soda has dried if the stain is still wet). Remove the baking soda with a vacuum cleaner.
Another option for removing dried stains is to use cleaning wipes. These wipes are pre-treated with a cleaning fluid and should always be kept on hand. Please follow the instructions on the label. Most cleaning wipes work by gently rubbing to dissolve the stain. If the cleaning solution needs to be activated by heat, heat it with a hairdryer.
How to shampoo your sofa
The easiest way to wash your sofa is to use a carpet cleaner or a cleaner specifically designed for sofas. Start by vacuuming the sofa to remove as much dirt as possible. Then pour water and detergent into the vacuum cleaner according to the instructions. Make sure the sofa does not get too wet. If the sofa does not dry quickly, moisture and mold problems may occur. Use the vacuum function of the vacuum cleaner to remove as much water as possible. When you’re done cleaning, you can speed up the drying process by using an old towel to remove excess water. Before replacing the cushions, let the sofa air dry. Using a fan will speed up this process, as the air can circulate faster.
How to steam clean your sofa
Another great way to clean sofa in Sydney is to use a steam cleaner. These machines are suitable for many fabrics, as they are only clean with heat and water. Choose a steam cleaner with a textile attachment to make the job easier. Follow the machine’s instructions and avoid entering the hot steam area to avoid burning yourself. Remember that the heat rises and do not lean over the nozzle while using it. It may be easier to work with the sofa if it is placed in an open area away from the wall.
To clean a fabric sofa with the steam cleaner, first, remove the cushions and clean one side at a time with the steam cleaner. Let each side dry, then turn it over and clean the other side. This will prevent wet odors from escaping to the outside. Move the spray nozzle quickly instead of directing steam continuously to one area. This will prevent the sofa from getting wet.
The next step is to clean the frame of the sofa. Do this in small areas, so that each area is thorough. Cleaned and nothing is missed. Let the sofa air dry, then put the cushions back in their place. A nearby fan will help with this process.
How to disinfect your sofa
Steam cleaning is an effective way to disinfect your sofa, but if you don’t have your own machine or want to hire a cleaning company, there are other methods. Cleaning alcohol is the best choice, as it can kill many bacteria and pathogens.
- 2 cups rubbing alcohol
- 1 cup of water
Mix it all together in a spray bottle and lightly dampen the sofa. Make sure it doesn’t get. Too wet. If possible, remove the cushions and spray the frame and all sides of the cushions one by one. Let the sofa and cushions air dry.
How to remove stains from a fabric sofa
Stains on sofas occur regularly. Many different things can cause stains, including food, drinks, and dirt. The cleaning methods mentioned above will remove most foods and stains. But some types of stains may require additional treatment to be. Completely removed.
How do you remove water stains from a sofa?
If the sofa fabric is not waterproof, spilled water will leave a water stain. Pour half a cup of white vinegar and two cups of distilled water into a spray bottle and lightly dampen the stain. Start on the outside of the stain and work your way in. Carefully wipe the stain with a not-so-wet microfiber cloth to remove the first traces. Dry quickly with a blower or hair dryer to prevent new stains from forming.
How to remove oil stains from sofas
The best way to remove oil stains is to use dishwashing liquid. Simply add a teaspoon of detergent to two cups of water and wipe the stain with a cloth or sponge. If you don’t have a water-based textile cleaner, use a dry cleaning cloth. These clothes are also. Treated to remove grease stains in a flash.
Bottom line
A stain on your upholstered sofa doesn’t have to be a disaster. Considering upholstered furniture is often difficult to maintain, but with Pros, it’s very simple. If you clean your sofa as part of your regular spring cleaning, you can extend its life and keep it looking new.
