Our couches provide comfort and relaxation. It is one of the home’s most used pieces of furniture and can become dirty from spills, dirt, pet hair and food particles that can give off unpleasant odours over time. Cleaning a couch takes effort, but we have a few tips that could make it easier if you plan to clean it yourself.

Please, check the manufacturer’s label.

The manufacturer’s tag will tell you the safest way to clean your couch. You can search underneath the sofa or cushions and follow the guidelines.

• Clean fabric labelled W with water-based solvents.
• If the tag has an S, consider using a water-free solvent or dry cleaning to remove dirt and stains. Ensure you use these chemicals in a well-ventilated room without open flames.
• Avoid using a cleaning agent if you see X on the tag. You can vacuum the fabric or hire a professional to avoid damaging the material.
• A mild detergent, steam vacuum, or dry-cleaning detergent can clean couch fabrics with the W-S tag.

Six steps to consider when cleaning your couch

If you plan on deep cleaning your couch, there are a few steps that you can use to get the job done well. Please remember the label guidelines when preparing for and during the cleaning process.  

Use a dry brush or steam the couch. A stiff brush with natural bristles can help loosen stains, remove loose particles, and bring dirt and dust to the surface. You can also use a handheld garment steamer to go over the entire sofa, allowing the steam to touch and penetrate the fabric to kill surface dust mites.

Vacuum. If you don’t have a dry brush, use a hand vacuum or the brush attachment to remove dirt and debris from the couch’s surface. Pay attention to areas where food crumbs, hair, or dirt accumulates. Remember to remove and vacuum both sides of cushions not attached to the sofa.

Apply baking soda for odours and stains. You can sprinkle the entire couch with baking soda to effectively loosen dirt and remove odours. Add water and baking soda (half water and half baking soda) to difficult stains and leave to soak for 15-20 minutes. Allow the baking soda solution to absorb the stain entirely. You can use the vacuum with the brush attachment to remove the dry or wet baking soda solution.

Use water and dishwashing liquid. Some people may prefer a solution of water (1 gallon) and dishwashing liquid (1 teaspoon) to wipe the couch after vacuuming. Dip a sponge or microfibre cloth in the solution and wipe the couch’s surface. Avoid getting water on metal buttons, frame legs or snaps to prevent rust stains.

Do a spot test. Use the recommended product to do a spot test to prevent damaging or causing fabric discolouration when using a cleaning solution. Follow the instructions on the packaging of the water-based solvent and use a microfibre cloth to wipe away the solution after application.

Allow the sofa to dry before using it. Dab wet areas with a soft dry towel to absorb the extra moisture. Then lightly brush off any remaining cleaning solution. Leave the sofa to air dry overnight.

We know house chores can be time-consuming, so we hope the tips provided in this article help. You can use the Guernsey Directory to locate needed products and services that can make everyday living easier.

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Sources: Good Housekeeping, Living Spaces, HGTV, and The Spruce.