Clean your couch in 5 easy steps

Be it an emergency coffee spill or just a buildup of grime from your pet sitting on the couch every day, cleaning a couch is a handy skill to know! Cleaning and caring for your upholstery maintains its most important function in the long run, which is — to give you a clean and comfortable place to relax in. If neglected, even high-quality fabric can show signs of damage, and no one wants to flop onto a worn out sofa at the end of a long day. So let’s get on with it, here’s how you can clean your couch in 5 easy steps:

1. Determine the Fabric type

First and foremost, find the tag on the couch and read the instructions for how to clean upholstery. Here are some codes you will likely find and what they mean:

WS: Use a mild detergent with a steam vacuum or a dry-cleaning detergent. 
S: Use a dry cleaner detergent only.
X: Use a vacuum only. No water.
W: You can use water to clean it. 

Here’s a guide to identify your couch’s fabric pattern.

2. Vacuum the couch

You can use a hand vacuum or a brush to clean any debris and dirt from the surface. Don’t forget to clean the crevices where pet hair, food crumbs and dirt usually accumulates. A lint roller can help to quickly and effectively remove excess pet hair. If the cushions aren’t attached, be sure to remove them and vacuum both sides. 

3. Wipe down non-fabric parts

Some couches may feature metal or wood details, most commonly on the arms and legs. Other materials, including plastic, might be used as well. Luckily, cleaning them doesn’t require too much effort. Wipe down the sofa feet and other non-fabric parts of the sofa with a solution of warm water and liquid dish soap. Wipe with a dry microfibre cloth afterward to prevent spotting.

4. Remove Stains

Can’t call a couch clean without removing those pesky little stains. Start by consulting the care tag for the cleaning code, which will help you figure out what products and cleaners are safe to use on that particular type of fabric. You can use an eco friendly stain remover or make your own cleaning solution with water and dish soap.

5. Let the Couch Dry

Use a towel to soak up any excess water remaining on the sofa surface. Let the sofa air dry. If it’s humid, you may want to set up a box fan pointed at the sofa for speed drying. Water can cause cushions and fabric to mildew. Generally, it takes somewhere around eight to twelve hours to get back the couch in completely dry and ready to use state. Top it off with some linen spray! This herbal infused fragrant mist will not leave a residue and is safe to use on your most valued linens and fabrics.