Sofa cleaning tips – simple steps for a fresh couch

Got a couch that looks tired after a few spills? You don’t need a pricey service to bring it back to life. With a few household items and the right moves, you can wipe out stains, kill odours and keep the fabric happy. Below are everyday tricks and a deeper clean you can do yourself.

Everyday maintenance

First, keep a soft brush or dry microfiber cloth handy. Every week, give the sofa a quick brush‑down to lift dust and loose crumbs. This stops dirt from grinding into the fibres and makes deeper cleaning easier later.

If a spill happens, act fast. Blot – don’t rub – with a clean white towel. Press gently until the liquid is absorbed. Rubbing spreads the stain and can damage the weave.

For most fresh stains, mix one part dish soap (Dawn works well) with two parts warm water. Dip a corner of a cloth into the solution, wring out excess, then dab the spot. Test on an hidden area first to make sure the colour doesn’t bleed. After the stain lifts, wipe with a plain water‑dampened cloth and let it air dry.

Deep cleaning tricks

When you’re ready for a full‑scale clean, remove any loose cushions and give them a good shake. Vacuum the entire sofa – use the upholstery attachment and go slow over seams and creases. This pulls out pet hair, sand and the grime that builds up over months.

Next, create a gentle cleaning solution: two cups of warm water, a tablespoon of baking soda, and a splash of white vinegar. The fizz helps lift stubborn marks. Lightly spray (or mist with a spray bottle) the area, then scrub with a soft brush in circular motions.

For fabric sofas, a steam cleaner can work wonders. Hold the nozzle a few inches away and move steadily across the surface. The steam loosens deep dirt and kills odours without soaking the fabric.

Leather couches need a different touch. Wipe with a damp cloth, then apply a thin layer of leather conditioner. This keeps the material supple and prevents cracks.

After any deep clean, let the sofa dry completely before putting cushions back. Open windows or use a fan to speed up drying and avoid mildew.

Finally, protect your sofa with a fabric protector spray. A light coating repels spills and makes future clean‑ups easier. Reapply every few months, especially if you have kids or pets.

With these simple steps, you can keep your couch looking new without hiring a pro. Regular brush‑downs, quick stain action, and an occasional deep clean are all you need for a fresh‑looking sofa that lasts.