Whether lounging with family, hosting gatherings, or simply enjoying a quiet evening, we spend much time on our couches. With daily use, our sofas can quickly become a magnet for dust, dirt, stains, and odors. Knowing how to clean a couch is crucial due to the frequent accumulation of dirt and stains from regular use.
While professional cleanings are essential for deep cleaning and prolonging the life of your furniture, maintaining cleanliness between visits is key. Here are five ways you can keep your couches clean and fresh:
1. Spot Clean Couch Spills Immediately
Spills happen. Whether your pizza ends up on the couch or your pet unintentionally tracks mud on your cushions, if you want to prevent a permanent stain, you must act quickly.
When a spill occurs, grab a clean cloth and blot the area to absorb as much liquid as possible. Don't rub the stain! Rubbing can push the stain deeper into the fabric.
Before using any cleaning solution, check the care label for the specific cleaning code. The cleaning code will dictate the appropriate cleaning method. Depending on the type of stain, you might want to use a mix of water, baking soda, and white vinegar to address the stain. Avoid using store-bought cleaning products, as they can contain harsh chemicals that can damage your couch.
2. Deodorize Couch with Baking Soda
Even when couches look clean, they can sometimes harbor unpleasant odors from pets, food, or just daily use. To keep your couch smelling fresh, consider using a natural deodorizer. Baking soda is a fantastic natural cleaner that can help deodorize and freshen your fabric couch. Here's how to use it effectively:
Sprinkle Baking Soda: Generously sprinkle baking soda over the entire couch, making sure to cover all surfaces evenly. This will help absorb any lingering odors.
Let It Sit: Allow the baking soda to sit for 30 minutes to an hour. This gives it time to work its magic, absorbing odors and loosening any dirt or stains.
Vacuum It Up: Use the brush attachment on your vacuum cleaner to gently remove the baking soda from the couch. This will also help lift away any dirt that has been loosened.
3. Protect Your Fabric Couch with Covers and Throws
Be proactive with washable couch covers, throws, or slipcovers that can help your couch stay clean. These not only add an extra layer of protection against spills, dirt, and pet hair but also can be easily removed and washed. Covers come in a variety of styles and fabrics, making it easy to match your home decor while keeping your upholstery safe. By using protective covers, you reduce the need for frequent deep cleaning and extend the life of your furniture.
4. Rotate and Fluff Cushions Regularly
Over time, couch cushions can lose their shape and become uneven due to consistent use. To maintain a plump, even look, rotating and fluffing your couch cushions regularly is essential. This not only helps to distribute wear and tear evenly, but it also prevents dirt from accumulating in one area.
5. Vacuum and Wipe Down Your Couch Between Professional Visits
Regularly vacuuming and wiping down your upholstered furniture can go a long way toward preserving your couches. Use your vacuum cleaner with an upholstery or brush attachment to vacuum the entire couch. Pay special attention to the crevices and corners where dust and dirt accumulate. After vacuuming, use a mixture of white vinegar, baking soda, and water to wipe down the couch. Avoid drenching your cloth in the mix; instead, use a spray bottle or a similar method to lightly dampen the cloth before wiping down the couch.
Maintaining clean couches between professional cleanings is all about consistency. Regular vacuuming, immediate spot cleaning, protective measures, and freshening up can significantly extend the life of your furniture and keep your home feeling clean and cozy.
While these habits are crucial, don't forget that nothing beats the deep clean provided by a professional. Schedule regular cleanings with Zerorez® to ensure your fabric sofa remains in top condition. Contact us today to schedule your next professional upholstery cleaning and experience the Zerorez difference!