How to Clean a Couch? Expert Tips For Every Type of Couch

The living room couch holds a special place in every home. It serves as a hub for various activities like watching movies, entertaining guests, or simply relaxing with a good book. However, frequent use can result in the accumulation of pet hair, crumbs, dust, dirt, and oils, which might tarnish its appeal.

If you're unsure about how to clean a couch or how often it needs cleaning, don't worry. We'll discuss everything you need to know in this guide so you can maintain a clean couch and healthy living environment throughout the year.

 

How to Clean a Fabric Couch?

 

Following these steps will help keep your fabric couch clean and fresh, ready for you to enjoy.

1. Apply Baking Soda: First, vacuum the couch to remove loose dirt and debris. Then, sprinkle baking soda over the couch surface. Let it sit for at least 20 minutes, or up to an hour, to absorb odors and freshen the fabric. Afterward, use a vacuum with a brush attachment to thoroughly remove the baking soda.
2. Prepare a DIY Cleaner: While the baking soda is doing its work, mix up a DIY cleaner in a small spray bottle. Combine 1 teaspoon of dishwashing liquid/ 1 Fomin multi-surface refills, 1 tablespoon of white vinegar, and 1 cup of warm water. Put 1 tbsp of baking soda into the mixture, but be prepared for some bubbling because baking soda reacts with vinegar chemically.
3. Wipe Down the Couch: Once the baking soda has been vacuumed off, spray a clean cloth with the DIY cleaner and wipe down the entire surface of the couch. For tougher stains, you can apply the solution directly to the affected areas. Let the fabric air dry completely before using the couch again.

 

How to Clean a Leather Couch?

 

 

When figuring out how to clean a leather couch, remember that methods can vary greatly depending on the type of leather. Follow these steps to clean your leather couch:

1. Remove dirt and dust from the couch by using a vacuum.

2. Mix half the amount of water and white vinegar in a spray bottle. You can also use mild, soapy water made with natural liquid dish soap. "Patch-test your couch first if you are unsure.

3. Spray this solution all over the couch surface.

4. Use a microfiber cloth to dab this solution onto the couch in circular motions gently.

5. Finally, use a clean towel to dry it.

 

How to Clean a Suede Couch?

Suede couches require special care as they are prone to staining. Follow these steps:

1. Use a vacuum to remove dirt and dust from the couch.
2. Check the label of your suede couch to determine suitable cleaning solutions.
3. If permitted for your suede fabric type, dampen a clean microfiber cloth with water.
4. Gently rub and wipe the stain on your couch.
5. Allow it to air dry.

For tougher stains, prepare a cleaning solution of water and diluted white vinegar or use a manufacturer-recommended product. In some cases, you can gently brush off residue after cleaning using a soft fabric brush.

 

How to Deep Clean a Couch?

 

If you want to know how to clean a cloth couch, follow these steps:

1. Utilize your vacuum's upholstery attachment to cover the entire couch: back, arms, skirt, and cushions. If the cushions are removable, remove them and vacuum the fabric underneath.
2. Treat food and pet stains with an enzyme-containing formula, following package directions for fabrics cleanable with water.
3. Alternatively, mix ¼ teaspoon mild dish soap with one cup of warm water. For cushions with removable covers, unzip them and place a paper towel between fabric and filling to absorb excess moisture.
4. Apply cleaner to a cloth, and blot the stain carefully from the outside in. 
5. Once removed, dab the area with another damp cloth to rinse thoroughly and blot dry.
6. For solvent-only fabrics, it's best to seek professional cleaning services for safe and thorough cleaning.
7. Once clean and dry, eliminate lingering bacteria and odors on water-safe upholstery with a fabric sanitizing spray.

 

How to Steam Clean a Couch?

For a more robust method of cleaning your couch, consider steam cleaning.

 

For Strong Fabrics

Using a standing or hand steamer on everyday couches, such as those made of fabric or microfiber, effectively eliminates odors and removes debris. Hold the steamer above the couch and glide it across the entire surface, ensuring the steam reaches every part of the fabric. Now concentrate especially on areas that see frequent contact, like the arms of the couch.

 

For Delicate Fabrics

When handling couches made from delicate materials like silk or velvet, keep a distance of 6 to 8 inches from the fabric to prevent water stains.

 

How to Clean a Couch that Smells?

When combating odors from your couch, baking soda is an excellent neutralizer, as many of us are aware of using it in our refrigerators and freezers. Sprinkle baking soda on the couch cushions (always check labels and test in a small area first). Consider using a soft bristle brush to work the baking soda into the fabric. Allow it to sit for a few minutes before vacuuming it up.

 

 

Vinegar is another exceptional natural cleaning option for tackling stubborn odors. To use vinegar, dilute it in a spray bottle and apply it to the couch. As the vinegar dries, its odor will dissipate. If baking soda or vinegar alone doesn't suffice, try combining them for a more potent odor-eliminating effect. To eliminate pet odors, consider using an enzymatic neutralizer or Fomin deodorant wipes.

 

Clean, Conscious & Convenient: Fomin's Contribution to a Plastic-Free World

Fomin is committed to playing a pivotal role in creating a plastic-free world. With every product we offer, we aim to make a positive impact. Our dedication to sustainability is reflected in our packaging, which is 100% TUV-certified material. We proudly hold Plastic Bank certification, ensuring that 12 plastic bottles are saved from entering our oceans with each purchase.

 

 

The statistics on plastic pollution are alarming. Annually, over 10 million tons of plastic end up in our oceans, endangering marine life and ecosystems. Fomin believes in taking a stand against this crisis, offering eco friendly alternatives that not only clean effectively but also contribute to a cleaner, more conscious, and convenient world.

 

Final Words

Knowing how to clean a couch effectively is essential to maintaining a fresh and inviting living space. By following the cleaning techniques outlined in this guide for fabric, leather, suede, and other couch materials, you can ensure your furniture remains free from stains, odors, and dirt buildup.