How to Clean a Fabric Couch: The Ultimate Guide

Kids, pets, and those wine nights (to escape the kids and pets) can be especially hard on couches, making them look dirty quickly. Here are the best tips to get your couch looking presentable again!

Couches are often one of the most-used pieces of furniture in a home. Over time, they can become stained and dirty, making them less appealing to look at and sit on. In this blog post, we will discuss how to clean a fabric couch using different methods and products. We will also provide tips on how to get the best results!

Let’s get started.

Check the cleaning codes

When it comes to cleaning your couch, you want to be sure that you’re doing it properly to avoid any damage. A couch cleaning code can help you understand the best way to clean your couch, based on the type of fabric it is made out of.

How to clean a fabric sofa using an upholstery cleaner

Upholstery cleaning is necessary to remove dirt, dust, and other allergens that can accumulate over time and, if you’re looking to keep your couch in tip-top shape, upholstery cleaner is a must-have. Not only will it help remove dirt and stains, but it will also help keep your couch looking new for years to come.

Step 1. Vacuum the couch

You’ll want to make sure you have a good vacuum with powerful suction. Start by vacuuming the entire couch, paying special attention to any areas that seem dirtier than others, like along the back and under cushions. Once you’re finished, you should see a significant difference in the couch’s appearance.

Step 2. Spot test the upholstery cleaner

Find an inconspicuous spot on your couch (such as the back or side) to test your cleaning solution. Once you have determined that your cleaner is safe to use, apply the cleaner to a clean rag or sponge, and use it to clean the couch fabric. Work in small sections, under couch cushions, and be sure to rinse the rag or sponge often to avoid re-depositing dirt on the couch.

Step 3. Keep the air circulated

One thing that is often overlooked is turning on a fan. Turning on a fan will help to circulate the air and dry the couch faster. If you don’t have a fan, you can open a window to help with the circulation. Just be sure to keep an eye on the couch so it doesn’t get too wet.

Step 4. Air dry your couch

The best way to dry your couch after cleaning it with chemicals is to use a fan. Place the fan so that it is blowing directly on the couch and leave it on for a few hours. You may need to check on the couch periodically to make sure that it is drying evenly. Once the couch is dry, you can put it back in its rightful place and enjoy your clean couch!

How to clean a couch using baking soda

Use baking soda for a more natural way to clean your couch

If you’re looking for a natural way to clean your couch, baking soda is a great option for cleaning your couch because it’s gentle, effective, and natural. Plus, it’s affordable and easy to find! Just make sure to vacuum first to remove any loose dirt and debris.

Follow the steps below to learn how to use it:

  1. Sprinkle baking soda on your couch and let it sit for 30 minutes to an hour. Sprinkling baking soda instead of dumping it will help make sure you don’t go overboard.
  2. Vacuum it up. You may need to do this a few times to get rid of all the dirt and grime.
  3. Form a paste. Mix equal parts of baking soda and water
  4. Apply the paste. Using a clean cloth, apply the paste to any stained areas on your couch and let it sit for about 15 minutes.
  5. Wipe away the paste. Finally, use a damp cloth to wipe away the paste, and voila – your couch is clean!

How to clean a couch using vinegar

If you’re looking for a simple and effective way to clean your couch, then look no further than white vinegar. All you need is a bowl of vinegar, a sponge, and some elbow grease, and your couch will be good as new in no time.

  1. Start by vacuuming your couch to remove any loose dirt or debris.
  2. Mix a bowl of equal parts water and vinegar. Dip your sponge into the mixture and start scrubbing away at any stains or marks on your couch. Be sure to rinse the sponge in clean water frequently to avoid re-depositing dirt onto the couch.
  3. Give the couch a once-over with a damp cloth to remove any vinegar residue.
  4. Allow the couch to air dry completely before using it again.

How to clean stains out of your couch

Stains can be frightening, but there is hope in getting them out

Act quickly

Whether it’s from pets, wine, or just general wear and tear, your beloved couch has an inevitable chance of getting dirty. Unfortunately, some of these accidents can result in stains. So when a stain does happen, it’s important to act quickly. The longer a stain sits, the harder it will be to remove. And if you have a light-colored couch, any stain is going to be very noticeable.

Identify the type of fabric your couch is made of

Properly identifying your couch material will determine what cleaning products and methods you can use. The most common types of fabrics are cotton, polyester, microfiber, and leather. When using a water-based cleaner, always test it in an inconspicuous area first to make sure it won’t damage your couch. When using a solvent-based cleaner, make sure to follow the instructions on the label carefully.

Once you’ve chosen the right cleaner for your couch, you’ll need to follow these steps:

  1. Vacuum your couch to remove any dirt, dust, or debris.
  2. Pre-treat any areas with stains using a stain remover.
  3. Apply your chosen cleaner to the couch, using a clean cloth.
  4. Rub the cleaner into the couch in a circular motion.
  5. Allow the couch to dry completely before moving on to the next step.
  6. Vacuum the couch again to remove any cleaners or residue.

Following these steps should help you clean your couch and get rid of any stains. If you have any stubborn stains that don’t seem to be coming out, you may need to call in a professional cleaner.

How to deep clean a fabric sofa with a steamer

Upholstery steamers are excellent for deep cleaning a couch

Deep cleaning your couch with a steamer is a great way to get it looking new again and there many different reasons why you might need to deep clean your couch.

Here’s how to do it:

  1. Vacuum your couch to remove any surface dirt and debris.
  2. Mix up a solution of equal parts water and white vinegar. Using a clean cloth, sponge the solution onto any spots or stains on your couch.
  3. Let it sit for about 15 minutes, then blot it dry with a clean towel.
  4. Fill the steamer with water and start steaming your couch, working in small sections. Be sure to pay extra attention to any areas that were stained or soiled.
  5. Use a clean microfiber cloth to wipe down the couch and remove any remaining dirt or residue.

If your couch is made of natural fibers

Fill the steamer with water and turn it on. When steam begins to come out, hold the steamer about six inches away from the couch and move it back and forth across the surface of the couch. Be sure to go over all the nooks and crannies, as this is where dirt and dust like to hide. After you’re done steaming, vacuum the couch again.

If your couch is made of synthetic fibers

Be sure to read the care label before cleaning, as some fabrics may be damaged by steam cleaning. You can use a steam cleaner or upholstery attachment on your vacuum. If the care label says it is safe to use steam, fill the steamer with water and follow the same directions as above. If the care label says not to use steam, attach the upholstery attachment to your vacuum and vacuum the couch thoroughly. Again, be sure to go over all the nooks and crannies.


How to deep clean a fabric sofa without a steamer

If your couch is really dirty, you may need to deep clean it. This can be done by using a fabric cleaner and water. You will need to do this every few months to keep your couch looking its best.

  1. Vacuum your couch thoroughly using the upholstery attachment on your vacuum cleaner.
  2. Mix a solution of fabric cleaner and water according to the directions on the bottle.
  3. Test the cleaner on a small, inconspicuous area of the couch to make sure it won’t damage the fabric.
  4. Use a clean cloth to apply the cleaner to the entire couch. Be sure to work it into any stains.
  5. Use a clean cloth dampened with water to remove any excess cleaner.
  6. Vacuum your couch again using the upholstery attachment. This will help remove any residual fabric cleaner and will also help the couch to dry faster. Your couch should now be clean and fresh! Repeat this process every few months to keep it looking its best.

How to get grease stains out of a fabric sofa

When it comes to getting grease stains out of a fabric sofa, there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind. First, it’s important to act quickly. The sooner you treat the stain, the better. Second, you’ll need to be careful about what cleaning products you use. Some cleaners can actually make the stain worse.

  1. Start by blotting the area with a clean, dry cloth. If the stain is fresh, this may be enough to get rid of it. If the stain is more stubborn, you can try using a little bit of dish soap on a damp cloth.
  2. Rub the stained area gently with the soap, then blot it dry. You may need to repeat this process a few times before the stain is completely gone.
  3. If you’re still having trouble getting the stain out, you can try using a commercial upholstery cleaner. Follow the instructions on the bottle carefully, and test the cleaner in an inconspicuous spot first to make sure it won’t damage your fabric. Once you’ve treated the stain, be sure to blot it dry.

How to get bad smells out of your sofa from

When it comes to how to get smells out of a couch, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First of all, it’s important to understand that there are two types of smells that can linger in your furniture – those from spills and those from pets.

How to get rid of pet smells

To get rid of pet smells, it’s important to clean not only the surface of your couch but also the cushions. Vacuum them well and then sprinkle baking soda on them before vacuuming again. Let the baking soda sit for a few hours before vacuuming once more. You should also avoid using fabric softener when you wash your couch covers, as this can make the problem worse. Instead, opt for a mild detergent and vinegar solution.

How to get rid of smells from spills

If you’re dealing with smells from spills, the best thing to do is to clean the area as soon as possible. The longer you wait, the harder it will be to get rid of the smell. When you do clean it, be sure to use a mild detergent and plenty of water. You may also want to try using a little bit of vinegar in your solution.

How to clean couch cushions with or without covers

Please follow the directions on your cushions as only certain covers are washable in the machine. After that, ensure you take off the cover of your cushion and put them through whatever cycle is recommended.

If your cushions do not have removable covers, you can try using small amounts of vinegar to give them a light clean. Rub the dirt away before washing it off with clean water. For both methods, let your covers air dry to avoid any accumulated moisture from forming beneath the cushions.

The bottom line

As you can see, there are many different ways to go about cleaning your couch. Whether you decide to clean your couch with an upholstery steamer or vacuum, or a more natural method such as using baking soda and vinegar, cleaning a couch is a rewarding experience.

Not only will it make your furniture look nicer, but it will also extend the life of your couch. With just a little bit of time and effort, you can keep your couch looking and feeling new for years to come. So what are you waiting for? Get cleaning!

Written by Taylor Barefoot
Written by Taylor Barefoot

Taylor is the founder and sole chief editor of Snug Sensations. When he's not piecing together articles or managing this site, you can find him exploring the Appalachian trails with his wife and dog Booe (pronounced boo), playing the guitar, or cooking vegan meals.

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