How do you clean a couch? Cleaning a couch or upholstery can be tricky. Unless you use covers, spills and stains are almost inevitable. The best approach is to be prepared and clean your couch when needed. However, hiring a professional upholstery cleaning service makes the process much easier, ensuring a deep clean without the hassle.
Before you begin, look at the cleaning instructions on the tag. The tag has essential details, including one of these four codes:
- W: This means you can clean the material using water. Use minimal water and avoid soaking the upholstery.
- S: This code requires a solvent-based cleaner. Water should not be used on this type of fabric, as it can cause shrinking, water stains, and damage to fabric dyes.
- WS: You can use either water or a solvent-based cleaner. However, it is best to test a small area before using either method to avoid potential damage. Calling a professional is often the safest choice.
- X: This means the upholstery should only be vacuumed. Do not use water, solvent, or foam cleaning agents, as they can damage the fabric.
If you cannot find the tag or are unsure about the code, contact the manufacturer for guidance or test a hidden spot before cleaning the entire surface.
How to Clean a Fabric Sofa
Fabric couches are commonly marked with Code X, requiring extra care. Follow these steps to clean fabric upholstery:
- Gently Brush: Lightly brush off dust, dander, and debris gently to make vacuuming easier.
- Vacuum: Attach a soft brush to your vacuum and clean the couch, including the corners and creases.
- Be Cautious with Baking Soda: While many recommend baking soda for deodorizing, its pH level of 9 could lead to fabric discoloration, especially on natural fibers like cotton, linen, or rayon. If you use it, test a small, hidden area first and dry it quickly to check the results.
- Call the Experts: Cleaning upholstery can be complex. Call G & A Carpet Service at (571) 655-1812 for delicate fabrics. Our professional technicians can safely clean your upholstery using the proper methods.
Steps to Clean Your Microfiber or Suede Sofa
Microfiber couches are popular due to their affordability. Depending on the cleaning code (W or S), here’s how to clean them:
- Create a Cleaning Solution: Add a few drops of dish soap to warm water in a spray bottle for W-code microfiber. For S-code microfiber, use rubbing alcohol in the spray bottle.
- Spray & Blot: Lightly spray the affected area and blot with a clean, white towel in a circular motion.
- Brush: Gently fluff the fabric with a soft scrub brush once dry.
How to Clean a Leather Sofa
Before cleaning your leather couch, confirm whether it’s genuine leather and check the label for cleaning instructions. If your couch is genuine leather, follow these steps:
- Vacuum: Attach a soft brush to your vacuum and clean the couch, making sure to get the corners and cracks.
- Make a Cleaning Solution: Combine the same amount of water and vinegar in a spray bottle or bowl.
- Wipe: Apply the solution to a microfiber cloth and wipe the couch.
- Dry: Use a neat towel to dry the couch.
- Condition: Mix one part vinegar with two parts flaxseed oil and rub it onto the couch in circles with a soft cloth. Leave overnight.
- Buff: Buff the following day with a clean cloth to bring out the shine.
Leather Couch Care
To keep your leather couch looking fabulous, follow these care tips:
- Dust & vacuum Regularly: Clean your leather couch by dusting and vacuuming it once a week.
- Avoid Sunlight: Direct sunlight can fade leather. Keep your couch shaded, or use blinds to protect it.
- Clean Spills Quickly: Always clean spills right away to prevent stains.
- Keep Away from Heat: Avoid placing leather furniture near radiators or heat sources to prevent drying or cracking.
- Condition Regularly: Leather can dry as time passes, so condition it every six months.
Looking for Professional Upholstery Cleaning?
G & A Carpet Service specializes in upholstery cleaning for fabric and microfiber couches. Our professional team removes dirt, stains, and allergens using safe, effective methods tailored to your furniture’s fabric type. Whether your couch needs a deep clean or routine maintenance, we’re here to help. Call us at (571) 655-1812 for expert upholstery cleaning!