Fabric sofas are not only exposed to dust, dirt, and stains, but grime can become embedded into their fibers as well. Even if you can’t see dirt or dust, it is important to clean your upholstery on a regular basis for the purpose of cleanliness and hygiene.  However, the cleaning process doesn’t have to be exhausting or expensive. In this post, we will share tips on how to clean fabric sofa naturally

If your chairs and sofas have removable covers, then cleaning them is easier and simple as you will only need to put them in a washing machine and set it at the required wash cycle as specified by the manufacturer. You can also pop them to a dry cleaner- ensure to follow the instructions on their label.

However, if your sofa covers are not removable, you will need a suitable upholstery cleaning product and an easy method to tackle dirt and stains. We have compiled ways on how to clean fabric sofa naturally, effectively, and swiftly- leaving your time to do other relaxing activities.

Before you clean, there are several factors you need to keep in mind to know the best method to clean a fabric sofa;

1. You need first to review your sofa manufacturer’s instructions

Before attempting to clean embedded dirt, freshen up your couch, or remove stains from your sofa, always check their label for any cleaning instructions by the manufacturer. Failing to do so could flat-out damage your couch or render your warranty void.

2. Check the tags; it can clear any doubts you may have

If you don’t find your manufacturer’s instructions, don’t get worried. Check a tag on sofa cushions that explains important details such as the material used and whether it is water-soluble or not. Keep in mind that the tag may be written on two sides; one side addressing how to clean the sofa cover while the other offering information on how to wash the cushions themselves. Make sure to follow the correct tag before you clean.

3. Carefully read the cleaning tag

This can help you avoid cleaning sofas in the wrong way. Typically, you will find four letters written on cleaning tag of the sofa. Here is what each translates to;

W – This means you use a water-based detergent

S – This translate to mean that your couch should be cleaned with a water-free detergent or dry-cleaned

WS – this means your couch should be cleaned either using a water-based cleaner or a dry-cleaner

X – It should be vacuumed only

O – Your couch should be washed in cold water since it is made from natural fibers and/or organic materials.

Note; never overlook the recommended cleaning methods indicated on the sofa tags

Water may seem like a universal cleaning agent, but if you use it to clean a sofa that solely indicates the use of solvent-based cleaner, you are in for a big, unpleasant surprise. You may even find it staining your sofa covers or making them develop non-removable crisis. Don’t risk ruining your sofa by using the wrong cleaning agents or methods. Stick to the instruction in the tags. The manufacturer knows what is best for your couch.

How to Clean a Stained Fabric Sofa?

If your sofa has an “X” marked on its cleaning tag, ensure to only vacuum it using an attachment. And, as mentioned above, those tagged with “S” call for a solvent-based cleaner that should be specifically designed for cleaning those particular products. The cleaning method we are about to share should only be used on sofas tagged with “W” or “WS” marks.

The needed items and ingredients

• A vacuum cleaner like this that has an upholstery attachment
• At least three microfiber cloths (see my reviews)  with no shouting colors; they should not bleed on your sofa
• Distilled water (your tap water may have minerals that can leave a residue on your sofa. You can do a quick internet search to look for DIY instructions on how to distill water, or you can go for an inexpensive jug at your local grocery store.
• Distilled white vinegar
• Liquid dish soap
• A bucket

Note; you should spot test your homemade solution on a low-key area of your sofa before you apply it to the rest of your covers.

• Vacuum your couch to prevent seeping dirt and debris into its fibers while cleaning
• Mix one tablespoon of dishwashing liquid, one tablespoon of vinegar, and two cups of distilled water in a bucket
• Dampen one of the microfiber cloth with the resultant solution
• Moisten another microfiber cloth with distilled water and blot the stained area to remove any soap
• Use a fresh microfiber cloth to dry the area one more time
• Use a fan to ensure the area dries completely

Steam Cleaning Your Couch

If your sofa is marked “W” or “WS,” you can use an upholstery steam cleaner. However, before you begin the process, check the manufacturer’s instructions to know whether it is okay to use it on your sofa fabric or not. While sofas marked “W” and “WS” may withstand water, not all can withstand the heat.

Besides, you will need to use it on a small, inconspicuous part to make sure steaming won’t affect your couches.

To steam, a couch, follow your manufacturer’s instructions. They should tell you the settings you will need to use.

Here are a few tips that can make your cleaning more effective

• Vacuum your sofa before steam cleaning. Also, vacuum it again after you have steamed it and dried it completely
• Steam clean your couches regularly; open the windows to ensure dust leave the room
• If your steam cleaner like this use microfiber cloths to pick up dirt and debris, you will want to change them as you steam, so as to pick up all the debris and dirt
• After steaming, use a fan to dry your couches completely
• Dump it out after all the water in the steamer has cooled

The Bottom Line

Cleaning couches is not an epic task, but it can be easy and quick. We hope the tips above on how to clean a fabric sofa will help you brighten and freshen up your sofas.