How to Clean a Sofa

Odds are, with everything else that life throws your way, the item on your tidying to-do list that keeps getting put off is cleaning your couch. But we’re here to make the case that your sofa is actually quite deserving of your cleaning time and efforts, especially when those efforts could take only 15 minutes or less. To help, we’ve broken down how to clean a sofa, as well as the best couch cleaners to use so you can get it done efficiently.

For real: there are several reasons why you should be taking the time to show your sofa some love. When you’re home sick with an inconvenient cold, who is there to snuggle you close? Who is always down to hang while you sit and read a book, or host your friends for a movie marathon? Who makes sure that your family and pets always feel comfortable? Your couch takes on a lot, and it rarely gets the thanks it deserves for everything it does. And to top it all off, think about the various stains, pet hair, and odors your sofa has endured.

Ahead, we’ve pulled together some specific ways to clean your couch depending on the fabric. From the best sofa cleaner sprays to homemade cleaning solutions, we know how to deep clean a couch, so get ready to give your sofa a well-deserved refresh.

How to Clean a Sofa

If you’re just noticing a buildup of hair or crumbs, the easiest thing you can do is vacuum your couch. We recommend using a portable hand vacuum or an upholstery-specific cleaner to get into all the tight cracks and crevices. If you don’t have a handheld vacuum handy, you can also use the brush attachment on your larger, standard-size vacuum to brush off any extra dirt.

If you want to take your cleaning to the next step, use a cleanser to get a deeper clean — but make sure you read the cleaning information for your couch fabric so you don’t ruin any materials. We’ve included the codes on sofa labels below, in case you weren’t aware or need a little reminder.

As for any odd odors or smells, the portable vacuum will come in handy with the help of a little baking soda. If your sofa fabric allows it, sprinkle some baking soda on the cushions and problem areas. Take a clean, soft-bristle brush and use it to gently rub the baking soda into the material of the couch. Once it’s brushed well into the fabric, vacuum up the remaining baking soda. This should deodorize your couch, leaving it smelling fresh and new.

How to Clean a Fabric Couch

The best homemade solution for cleaning your favorite fabric couch calls for vinegar, warm water, and dish or castille soap. You’ll want to take an empty spray bottle and fill it with 1/4 cup of vinegar, 3/4 cup of warm-hot water, and one tablespoon of dish or castile soap. Take your spray bottle and spray the stained and smudged areas.

Grab a soft, clean cloth and rub the mixture into the problem areas until they’re clean. Take a second cloth, dampen it with clean water, and use it to remove any excess soap. Grab a dry towel, dab the spot dry, and let it sit for a couple of hours.

How to Clean a Leather Couch

Now, if you’re the owner of a leather couch, don’t worry, because we also have a homemade-cleaner recipe for you. Using a spray bottle, mix 1/2 cup of olive oil with 1/4 cup of vinegar. Mist the mixture onto the cushions and surface of the couch, then take a microfiber cloth and buff it out. Your couch will be looking as shiny and new as the day you got it.

Best Sofa Cleaners

Though there are plenty of homemade remedies, if you’re feeling like purchasing a sofa cleaner might be a better (and easier) option, we’ve got you covered.

The Woolite Fresh Fabric Cleaner ($6) is an affordable fabric cleaner with a built-in brush. Plus, it’s great for cleaning all upholstery. It’s especially good for targeting any old, stubborn stains that might be overstaying their welcome on your beloved sofa.

The Woolite Instaclean Stain Remover 2-Pack ($22), meanwhile, promises permanent stain removal in only a matter of seconds and specifically calls out pet stains for sofas that have taken a little too much love from our furry friends. With this cleaner, it’s quick and easy to have a refreshed couch.

Charlotte Kho is a writer originally from Washington D.C. who spends her time watching classic rom-com movies, exploring art museums, and hunting for the best pizza in New York City.