How to Clean Your Sofa
For most families, the living room is one area of the home that is used time and time again. It’s a room where family members, guests, and pets alike spend hours lounging, watching TV, playing games, and catching up on life. Similarly, for many families, the main piece of furniture that is used in the living room is the sofa—the most comfortable and welcoming place to sit after a long day at work.
Given that the sofa is such a much-loved and important part of the home, it can easily become a spot that collects dust, pet hair, and stains from spills (we’ve all done it—eating dinner in front of the TV has become the standard in so many American homes!) Despite the fact that the sofa is a magnet for dirt and grime, it is often neglected or downright ignored when it comes to cleaning. Many people don’t know how to clean their sofa, or only know how to clean any upholstered furniture with store bought cleaners that contain harshl chemicals and can not only harm you and your family, but break down the sofa material over time.
If your much-beloved sofa is in need of some tender loving care, look no further. We’ve got you covered with some safe (and effective) ways to clean your sofa.
Use a Vacuum
Depending on how dirty your sofa is, this may be the only step required to clean it. Start by grabbing either a hand-held vacuum cleaner or using the hose attachment on your full-size vacuum. Next, remove the couch cushions and pillows entirely from the couch. Finally, use the vacuum to clean all the nooks and crannies in your sofa’s frame where dust, crumbs, and pet hair can hide.
Wipe Down Hard Surfaces
Depending on the materials your sofa is made of, this might be a quick job or the bulk of the work. Using a damp cloth, simply wipe over any wooden or metal areas of your sofa. Most often these hard surfaces will be in the frame of the sofa or on the legs. Pay special attention to any stuck-on grime or areas where wood might be scratched or damaged.
Tackle the Fabric-Covered Areas
For cushions, most of the fabric covers can be unzipped, removed, and placed in the washing machine. Be sure to follow any instructions listed on your sofa’s labels.
For fabric upholstery, a mixture of vinegar, warm water, and dish or castile soap works wonders on stains or discolored areas. Simply spray this mixture over the surface of the fabric, scrub with a cloth to remove the stain, and then use plain water to remove any leftover soap.
For leather upholstery, mix olive oil and vinegar, then spray onto the surface of the sofa. Use a soft cloth to buff the mixture into the leather, and wipe with a dry cloth to remove any extra residue.
If you haven’t cleaned your sofa in a while, take this as your sign to do so! With a little bit of time and effort, your sofa can start looking good as new.
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