Your fabric sofa is more than just a piece of furniture – it’s the heart of your living room, a cosy retreat after a long day, and the ultimate spot for movie nights and lazy Sunday afternoons. But over time, it collects everything from pet hair and crumbs to accidental spills and mysterious stains. Cleaning a fabric sofa and keeping it fresh doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With the right techniques, you can clean your fabric sofa at home, extend its lifespan, and keep it looking as good as new. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to clean a fabric sofa properly, remove stubborn stains, and give it a deep clean without damaging the upholstery. Get ready to transform your corner sofa from drab to fab!
Before you start: check the label codes!
Before you reach for the cleaning supplies, take a moment to check the care label on your fabric sofa. These little tags hold the secret to keeping your upholstery in top shape – following the wrong sofa cleaning method can lead to permanent damage. Here’s what the codes mean:
- W – Water-based cleaners are safe. You can use mild soap and water to clean stains.
- S – Use only solvent-based cleaners. Water can cause damage!
- W/S – You’re in luck! Both water- and solvent-based cleaners are safe to use.
- X – Hands off the liquids! Stick to vacuuming and dry brushing only.
Ignoring these guidelines could leave your fabric discoloured or ruined. When in doubt, always perform a spot test in an inconspicuous area before applying any sofa fabric cleaning solution to the entire sofa.
How to clean your fabric sofa and remove odours
Over time, fabric sofas can absorb a medley of odours – from food and pets to everyday life. If your sofa bed has lost its fresh scent, a simple baking soda treatment can work wonders. How to clean sofa fabric with baking soda? Follow these steps:
- Vacuum the sofa thoroughly to remove dust, crumbs, and pet hair. Use an upholstery attachment for best results.
- Sprinkle baking soda generously over the fabric, focusing on areas prone to odours.
- Let it sit for 15–30 minutes to absorb lingering smells.
- Vacuum again, ensuring all traces of baking soda are removed.
For an added boost, mix the baking soda with a few drops of your favourite essential oil before applying. This natural sofa deep cleaning method is simple, effective, and will leave your sofa smelling wonderfully fresh.
How to remove stubborn stains from a fabric sofa
Accidents happen, but the key to stain removal is swift action. The longer a stain sits, the harder it becomes to remove. Here’s how to clean fabric sofa stains like a pro:
Natural Cleaning Methods
How to clean fabric sofa naturally? One of the best ways to clean a fabric sofa naturally is with a white vinegar solution. Mix equal parts of white vinegar and lukewarm water in a spray bottle and shake well. Lightly mist the stained area, being careful not to over-saturate the fabric. Using a clean, white microfiber cloth, gently blot the stain—never rub, as this can cause the stain to spread. Continue blotting until the stain lifts, then let the area air dry completely.
Another highly effective method of how to clean fabric sofa at home is using dish soap and warm water. Fill a bowl with two cups of warm water and add a few drops of mild dish soap. Mix gently to create a sudsy solution. Dip a clean, white cloth into the mixture and wring out excess liquid to avoid soaking the fabric. Dab the stained area carefully, working from the outside of the stain inward to prevent it from spreading. After blotting for a few minutes, use another damp cloth with clean water to remove any soap residue. Finish by patting the area dry with a dry cloth and allowing it to air dry.
Avoid using coloured cloths on light-coloured upholstery, as they may transfer dye to the fabric. Always test any cleaning fabric sofa solution on a hidden section of the sofa before applying it to a visible area to ensure there is no discolouration.
Commercial Stain Removers
If DIY solutions don’t cut it, opt for a fabric-safe upholstery cleaner. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and perform a patch test before applying it to visible areas of the sofa.
Sofa deep cleaning – is steam cleaning worth it?
If your sofa has seen better days, a deep clean might be in order. Steam cleaning fabric sofas can be incredibly effective at removing deep-seated dirt and grime, but only if your fabric allows it. If your sofa is heavily soiled, covered in stains, or hasn’t been cleaned in over a year, washing the sofa with steam is an excellent solution. Aiming for a sofa deep cleaning every six to twelve months will help maintain its freshness, and if you have pets or allergies, more frequent cleaning might be necessary. To get the best results, choose a warm, dry day so you can open windows and let the sofa air out properly. If you don’t own a steam cleaner, renting one or hiring a professional sofa cleaning service can make the process hassle-free and ensure the best possible outcome.
What to avoid when cleaning a fabric sofa
Cleaning mistakes can easily ruin a fabric sofa, so it’s essential to take the right precautions. Using too much water can lead to mould, mildew, and water stains, which can permanently damage the fabric. Harsh scrubbing should also be avoided, as it can weaken delicate fibres and cause stains to spread rather than lift. Additionally, bleach is never a good option, as it can cause severe discolouration and weaken the upholstery. Finally, always perform a patch test on a hidden section before applying any cleaner to the entire sofa to avoid unexpected damage or discolouration.
Best way to clean a fabric sofa – final thoughts
Keeping your fabric sofa looking its best doesn’t have to be a chore! With regular maintenance, quick stain removal, and the occasional sofa deep cleaning, you can ensure it remains fresh, clean, and inviting.
How to clean fabric sofa? Check the label code, use the right products, and avoid excessive moisture. With these tried-and-true fabric sofa cleaning tips, your sofa will stay in excellent condition for years to come – so go ahead, curl up, relax, and enjoy your spotless couch!
Author: Dako Furniture Team