Keeping a tidy sofa can be challenging. From unyielding pet hair and dander to wine and sauce spills that are a pain to remove. In short, your couch can undergo a lot of wear and tear. However, you don’t have to settle for a dirty sofa, learn how to clean your couch and keep it that way!
Step 1: Vacuum
Regardless of what kind of couch you have — fabric, leather, or microfiber — the first step to getting it clean is by busting out your trusty vacuum. This prevents dust and crumbs from settling into the furniture and can even help fade away stains. Pay special attention to the crevices where pet hair, food crumbs, and dirt are more likely to accumulate. And if you have detachable cushions, remove them and vacuum both sides.
Step 2: Check for Cleaning Instructions
Once you’ve vacuumed, it’s time to investigate. Did you know, just like clothing comes with cleaning tags, most furniture comes with cleaning codes? Check under the sofa, on the platform, or look for tags on the cushions to locate yours. Then, decode your upholstery cleaning tags using this guide:
- 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.
How to Clean a Fabric Couch
If you have a fabric couch, try giving it a good steam. While you could go the extra mile and purchase a brand-new steamer, using the “steam” button on your iron is just as effective. Steaming your sofa will loosen up any stains and make them easier to remove.
Another way to clean your couch is by making your own cleaner. This is a more eco-friendly option, and it takes just a couple of ingredients. Mix 1/4 cup vinegar, 3/4 warm water, 1 tablespoon for dish soap or Castile soap, and fill up a spray bottle. Next, mist the soiled area and scrub with a soft cloth until the stain comes out. Finally, grab a second cloth, moistened with clean water, and clean up the soap. Dry with a towel.
How to Clean a Leather Couch
Leather is amazingly durable but often requires additional care when cleaning. Fortunately, it’s a simple process that can be done with items you likely already have at home. After vacuuming thoroughly, wipe it down using a microfiber cloth and a specialized leather cleaner.
To avoid spreading any dirt, use a different patch of your microfiber towel every few strokes. Afterward, use a dry rag to absorb any excess moisture. If you’d like to leave your leather couch as good as new, utilize a leather conditioner after cleaning it!
How to Clean a Microfiber Couch
Polyester-based microfiber can mimic the look and feel of other materials like suede or leather. While it’s affordable, durable, and easily repels water, it’s not immune to stains. Unfortunately, because of the latter, you should avoid using soap and water to clean it.
Instead, grab a spray bottle and fill it with rubbing alcohol. Spray the soiled area liberally before blotting it with a cloth until the stain is removed. To refresh the texture of your microfiber couch, use a soft-bristle brush, and rub it over the fabric in a circular motion. There, good as new.
Buying Second-Hand Couches
Maintaining your couch’s cosmetic appeal isn’t difficult, but supporting its structural integrity can be a little more complicated, especially if you purchased it from a thrift store or online marketplace. In many cases, even a good cleaning can’t diminish the risks of buying secondhand furniture from questionable vendors.
Fortunately, CORT offers pre-inspected, gently-used furniture that has undergone a certification process. This includes cleaning every product thoroughly before it ever hits the sales floor. And if we know one thing, it’s how to sanitize a used couch. You no longer have to worry about unwanted pests — and whatever else might come from used furniture.
If you find your sofa in irreparable shape, it’s time to find a new, gently-used one. Browse CORT Furniture Outlet to find previously-rented and inspected sofas backed by our CORT Certified promise. Visit your local CORT Outlet today to see what’s in stock.
