Cleaning Fabric Couches

If you have a fabric couch, you know how easily it can get stained and dirty. And let’s face it, a dirty couch isn’t exactly a pretty sight. But don’t worry, cleaning fabric couches is actually pretty easy! In this blog post, we’ll give you some simple tips and advice on cleaning fabric couches with common household items. By the end, you’ll definitely know how to keep your couch looking fresh and clean. 

Whether you have a pesky stain that just won’t go away or you’re getting ready for Christmas with a good deep cleaning, we’ve got you covered. With a little elbow grease and some basic household products, you can have your couch looking like new again in no time.

Check The Manufacturer’s Recommendations Before You Clean

Before you start cleaning your fabric couch, there are a few important things to keep in mind. First and foremost, you should always review the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure that you don’t accidentally void any warranties or damage your couch. If you can’t find the manufacturer’s instructions, check the tags on your cushions. They should provide you with information about the material and how to clean it properly.

The tags on your couch cushions will typically have one of four letters on them, each of which represents a different cleaning method. The letters and their meanings are as follows:

• W: Water-based cleaning is allowed.
• S: Solvent-based cleaning is allowed.
• WS: Both water- and solvent-based cleaning are allowed.
• X: Vacuuming is the only recommended cleaning method.

It’s important to follow the recommended cleaning methods on the tags, even if they seem counterintuitive. For example, using water to clean a couch that requires a solvent-based cleaner can actually cause staining. So, to avoid damaging your furniture, stick to the instructions on the tags.

Why Upholstery Cleaning is Important

1. Avoid Poor Indoor Air Quality

Research by Daikin Australia found 52% of Australians have experienced health concerns such as respiratory problems, asthma, allergy symptoms, poor sleep and headaches due to poor air quality at home. One of the main sources of poor air quality in the home is upholstered furniture. Every time you sit down on your fabric couch, you’re releasing a variety of pollutants into the air, such as dust, dirt, grime, dead skin, bacteria, and mould spores. These pollutants can quickly build up in your furniture, making it a breeding ground for allergens and other harmful particles.

Cleaning your upholstery regularly can help improve the air quality in your home by removing allergens, dust, and other pollutants that can be trapped in the fabric.

2. Extend The Lifespan Of Your Fabric Couches

Couches have a lifespan of about seven to 10 years. Regular cleaning can help extend the lifespan of your upholstery by removing dirt, stains, and other pollutants that can cause the fabric to wear down over time.

3. Remove Unpleasant Odours

Regular cleaning helps to remove any unpleasant odours that may be trapped in your upholstery, such as pet smells or smoke.

4. Improve The Appearance Of Your Fabric Couch

Cleaning fabric couches regularly helps to improve the appearance of your furniture by removing stains and restoring its original colour and shine.

Professional vs DIY Fabric Couch Cleaning

When it comes to cleaning fabric couches, there are times when DIY methods just won’t cut it. For example, if you have spilled a large amount of wine or if your pet has had an accident on your couch, it may be best to put your sofa into the hands of a professional cleaner.

Here are some key benefits of hiring a professional cleaner for your fabric couch:

• Expertise and experience in removing stains
• Access to professional-grade cleaning products and equipment
• Time-saving and hassle-free
• Peace of mind

Whether you choose to hire a professional cleaner or do it yourself will depend on your specific situation and needs. If you have the time, energy, and expertise to clean your couch yourself, DIY cleaning can be a cost-effective option. However, if you want the best possible results and don’t mind paying a little extra, hiring a professional cleaner may be the way to go.

Cleaning Fabric Couches With Vinegar

Vinegar is a natural disinfectant and a gentle cleaner that won’t damage the fibres of your fabric couch like some harsh chemicals can. It’s also a very effective way to remove stains from fabric couches.

To clean a fabric couch with vinegar, follow these steps:

1. Vacuum the couch to remove any loose dirt and debris.
2. Mix a solution of equal parts water and vinegar in a spray bottle.
3. Test the solution on a small, inconspicuous area of the couch to ensure that it does not damage the fabric.
4. If the solution is safe to use, spray it evenly over the surface of the couch.
5. Use a soft-bristled brush or a microfiber cloth to scrub the couch in a circular motion, focusing on areas with stains or dirt.
6. Use a clean cloth or sponge to remove the solution and any dirt or stains that have been lifted.
7. Allow the couch to air dry completely before using it again.

How To Steam Clean Your Fabric Couch

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Steam cleaning isn’t just for your carpet. It’s a gentle yet effective way to remove dirt and grime from your fabric couch. This method uses hot steam to loosen and dissolve dirt and stains.

To steam clean a fabric couch with an upholstery steam cleaner, follow these steps:

1. Vacuum the couch thoroughly to remove any loose dirt or debris.
2. Check the couch’s care instructions to determine the maximum water temperature and steam settings that are safe to use.
3. Fill the steam cleaner’s tank with clean, cold water, and add any recommended cleaning solution according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
4. Pre-test a small, inconspicuous area of the couch to ensure that the steam cleaner and cleaning solution do not cause discolouration or damage.
5. Begin at the top of the couch and work your way down, using the steam cleaner’s upholstery attachment to apply the steam and cleaning solution. Move the steam cleaner slowly and evenly over the surface of the fabric.
6. Once you have cleaned the entire couch, use a clean, absorbent cloth to blot any excess moisture from the fabric.
7. Allow the couch to air dry completely before using it or replacing the cushions.

How to Remove Grease Stains From Your Fabric Couch

Grease stains on fabric couches are a common occurrence and can be challenging to remove. 

However, removing them is easy with the guide below.

To remove grease stains from your fabric couch, follow these steps:

1. Blot the stain with a clean, white cloth or paper towel.
2. Sprinkle baking soda or cornstarch on the stain and let it sit for 15 minutes.
3. Vacuum the baking soda or cornstarch from the fabric.
4. Apply a solution of warm water and mild laundry detergent to the stain and scrub gently with a clean cloth.
5. Rinse the area with warm water and blot with a clean, white cloth to remove excess moisture.
6. Allow the area to air dry completely and use a fabric brush to restore texture.

Remember to test cleaning solutions on a small, inconspicuous area first and work from the outside of the stain towards the centre to avoid spreading the grease.

How to Remove Grease Stains From Your Fabric Couch

Shaving Cream

As crazy as it sounds, shaving cream is one of the best fabric cleaners to get rid of general stains. Even a GlasgowLive article released back in February featured a “cleaning enthusiast” who said that shaving cream leaves couches and upholstered chairs looking “like new”. 

To clean your fabric couch with shaving cream:

1. Apply cream to the fabric stains.
2. Leave the cream on the stains for 20 minutes.
3. Blot the stained area with a clean, dry cloth.
4. Mix water and vinegar in a spray bottle and spray the stained area of the couch.
5. Wipe the area with a dry white cloth and let it air dry.

Hydrogen Peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide is a powerful stain-fighter, and it’s perfect for tackling tough stains like blood. Plus, it’s safe to use on most fabrics, so you can use it on your couch without worrying about damaging the material.

Of course, it’s always best to spot-test any cleaning solution on a small, inconspicuous area of your couch before using it on the entire stain.

Here’s how hydrogen peroxide can be used for cleaning stained fabric couches:

1. Mix mild detergent and water to create a solution.
2. Apply hydrogen peroxide directly to the stain and wait for it to foam.
3. Once the peroxide has foamed, use a clean, dry towel to dab at the stain, lifting and removing it from the couch.
4. Let the couch air dry.

Regular maintenance and deep cleanings are important for keeping your fabric couches looking and smelling fresh. However, if you are unsure of how to properly clean your fabric couches or do not have the time to do so, it is best to hire a professional cleaning service. 

If you want to keep your fabric couch looking like new, consider hiring a professional cleaning service for a thorough clean. With our experience, expertise, and specialised equipment, we  can help extend the life of your fabric couch and keep it looking its best. Contact us about upholstery cleaning services.