Couches are hard to clean. You can’t simply throw them into the washing machine, and wiping them down with a wet cloth doesn’t get you very far. That unfortunate red wine spill looks devastating when it happens, even if you jump to clean it up immediately.
Even if you’ve managed to avoid big spills, couches get a lot of wear and tear. Chances are, your couch has some combination of crumbs, mysterious stains, pet hair, and dirt. It’s time to learn how to clean a couch.
Start with a Vacuum
Most vacuums come with an attachment for those dirty crevices in your couch. Remove the loose dirt and debris, and make sure to remove the cushions to access the dirt in the couch frame.
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Prepare Your Vacuum: Ensure your vacuum cleaner is equipped with an upholstery attachment or a crevice tool.
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Remove Cushions: Take off all removable cushions and pillows.
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Vacuum Thoroughly: Start with the surface, then move to the crevices, making sure to vacuum every nook and cranny.
Wipe Down What You Can
While wipes aren’t too successful on couch fabric, they work well on wood or metal parts. Use warm water and soap to clean these areas.
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Identify Non-Fabric Areas: Locate all wooden, metal, or plastic parts of your couch.
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Prepare Cleaning Solution: Mix a small amount of dish soap with warm water.
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Wipe Down Surfaces: Use a microfiber cloth dipped in the solution to clean these areas.
Check the Manufacturer Instructions
Depending on your couch's material, check the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions. Look for a tag with a cleaning code:
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W: Use water-based detergents.
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S: Use dry clean (water-free) detergent only.
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WS: Use water-based or dry clean detergents.
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O: Wash in cold water.
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X: Vacuum only, no water, or have it cleaned by a professional.
Locate the Tag: Find the manufacturer’s tag, usually located under the cushions or along the couch frame.
Decode the Tag: Understand the cleaning codes provided to avoid damaging your couch.
Remove Stains
To remove stains, you can use store-bought cleaners or homemade solutions:
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Fabric: Mix ¼ cup vinegar, ¾ cup water, and 1 tablespoon dish soap. Spray the stain and scrub with a cloth until it disappears. Dry with another cloth.
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Leather: Mix ½ cup olive oil with ½ cup vinegar. Spray on unclean spots, rub with a cloth, and dry with another cloth.
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Synthetic materials: Mix ½ cup vinegar, 1 cup warm water, and ½ tablespoon dish soap. Spray, scrub with a cloth, and dry.
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Spot Test: Before applying any solution, test it on a small, inconspicuous area.
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Apply Solution: Spray the mixture directly onto the stain.
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Scrub Gently: Use a clean cloth to gently scrub the stain until it lifts.
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Dry the Area: Use another clean cloth to blot and dry the area.
Remove Foul Odors
Baking soda can help remove bad smells from both leather and fabric couches. Sprinkle baking soda generously, wait 20 minutes, then vacuum it up.
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Sprinkle Baking Soda: Spread baking soda evenly over the entire surface of the couch.
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Let It Sit: Allow the baking soda to sit for at least 20 minutes to absorb odors.
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Vacuum Up: Vacuum the baking soda thoroughly to remove it along with any absorbed odors.
Wait For It to Dry
Ensure your couch is completely dry before using it again to prevent mildew. Soak up excess water and air dry your couch.
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Absorb Excess Moisture: Use clean, dry towels to soak up any remaining moisture.
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Air Dry: Allow your couch to air dry completely, possibly using fans to speed up the process.
Conclusion
Cleaning your couch may seem like a daunting task, but with the right approach and tools, it becomes manageable. Regular vacuuming, spot cleaning, and deodorizing can keep your couch looking and smelling fresh.
By following these DIY couch cleaner tips, you can effectively maintain your couch’s appearance and hygiene, ensuring it remains a comfortable and inviting part of your home for years to come. Good luck with your couch clean, and enjoy your newly refreshed seating.
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