These days, keeping your couch clean is critical. With more and more people spending time at home, it’s critical to have a comfortable and clean space to unwind in. However, keeping your couch clean can sometimes feel like a daunting task, especially if you’re not sure where to begin. This article will provide you with some simple and useful tips for keeping your couch clean and cosy. Whether you’re dealing with spills, pet hair, or just everyday dirt, these simple tips will help you keep your couch looking fresh and inviting, so you can relax after a long day.
Vacuum weekly
Make sure to vacuum your couch once a week to keep it clean and free of dust bunnies. Use the vacuum’s little brush attachment to get into all of the small spaces, such as under the cushions and along the edges. Also, remember to flip or turn the cushions around so you can clean them evenly. You may relax in comfort and not worry about dirt and dust build-up by following this easy routine, which will help keep your couch feeling and looking new.
Spot clean spills promptly
Accidents happen, but don’t stress! Keep some gentle upholstery cleaner handy for those unexpected spills. Just dab it on the affected area and gently blot with a clean cloth to tackle stains before they set in.
Freshen up with baking soda
If your couch needs a little refresh, sprinkle some baking soda over the cushions and let it sit for about 15 minutes before vacuuming it up. This natural deodoriser will help eliminate any lingering odours, leaving your couch smelling as fresh as a daisy!
Fabric protector for easy cleaning
Make cleaning your couch a breeze by considering a fabric protector, especially if you have a light coloured sofa. It’s like giving your couch a shield against spills and stains. Simply spray on the fabric protector according to the instructions and you’ve got an extra layer of defence. Cleaning up accidents becomes a piece of cake, and you can relax knowing your couch is protected. And for even more couch-cleaning goodness, here are two extra tips:
Test in a hidden spot
Before spraying the fabric protector all over your couch, test it out in a hidden spot to make sure it won’t cause any discoloration or damage. Better safe than sorry.
Reapply regularly
The fabric protector may eventually wear off, particularly in areas with frequent use. Make sure to reapply it on a regular basis to keep your couch protected and looking good for years.
Nix the crumbs
Say goodbye to those pesky crumbs that can attract unwanted guests. Use your vacuum’s crevice tool to regularly remove crumbs from between cushions and around corners to keep your couch looking nice. It’s similar to doing a thorough spring cleaning on your couch! Plus, here are two more tips to help you keep those crumbs at bay.
Shake out cushions
Every now and then, take your cushions outside and give them a good shake to dislodge any crumbs or debris that may have accumulated. It’s a quick and easy way to freshen up your couch.
Use a handheld vacuum
A handheld vacuum is useful for quick clean-ups in between regular vacuuming sessions. It’s ideal for removing crumbs and spills as soon as they occur, allowing you to maintain a crumb-free couch with little effort.
Sunshine freshens
Allow the sunshine to work its magic on your couch cushions! On a sunny day, open your windows and position your cushions in indirect sunlight. It’s like giving your cushions a fresh breath of air! Sunlight not only kills bacteria but also naturally freshens fabrics, making your couch smell clean and inviting. These two additional suggestions are for some extra sunshine-fresh goodness:
Rotate regularly
To ensure all sides of your cushions get some sun exposure, rotate them every hour or so. This way, every inch gets a chance to soak up the sunlight and benefit from its natural cleaning properties.
Use caution with delicate fabrics
While sunlight is beneficial to most fabrics, some delicate materials are susceptible to fading or damage. Before exposing your cushions to direct sunlight for an extended period of time, double-check their care instructions.
Deep clean when needed
When your couch requires a thorough cleaning, it is time to go the extra mile! Consider professional upholstery cleaning every 1-2 years, especially if you have a large number of people lounging or if your couch is frequently used. Professional cleaning can get deep into the fabric and remove stubborn dirt, dust mites, and allergens that regular cleaning may miss. Here are two additional tips for cleaning your couch:
Spot clean as needed
Don’t wait to address any stains or spills between professional cleanings! Spot clean the affected areas with a gentle upholstery cleaner to keep your couch looking good in between deep cleanings.
Invest in washable slipcovers
If you have a busy household or pets, consider investing in washable slipcovers for your couch. They’re a convenient way to protect your couch from spills and stains, and you can easily toss them in the washing machine whenever they need a refresh.
For pet owners
A lint roller can help keep your couch fur-free. It’s like having a secret weapon for removing pet hair! Make it a habit to regularly roll over your couch to remove any stray fur before it becomes a permanent part of the upholstery. And here are two more pet-friendly cleaning tips.
Brush your pet
Regular grooming can help reduce shedding and keep your furry friend’s coat in tip-top shape. By brushing your pet regularly, you’ll minimise the amount of loose fur that ends up on your couch.
Wash pet bedding often
Don’t forget about your pet’s bedding! Wash their blankets and pillows frequently to prevent them from shedding onto your couch. This simple step can go a long way in keeping your couch clean and pet hair-free.
FAQs
Aim for weekly vacuuming with the upholstery attachment to remove dust, dirt, and crumbs.
Act fast! Blot up any excess liquid with a clean, absorbent cloth. Check the cleaning code on your couch (usually under the cushions) and use a cleaning solution appropriate for the fabric.
Absolutely! Fabric protector creates a barrier against spills and makes cleaning easier, especially for light-coloured couches.
Baking soda is a natural deodorizer. Sprinkle it on the couch, let it sit for 30 minutes, then vacuum it up. Fresh air also helps - open windows on a sunny day (avoid direct sunlight) to freshen things up.
Leather requires special care. Avoid harsh chemicals and use a leather cleaner specifically formulated for your type of leather.
Always check the cleaning code on your couch for specific instructions. Generally, water-based solutions work well for cotton and linen, while solvent-based cleaners are better for synthetic fabrics.
Many online resources offer stain removal guides. Look for tips based on the specific stain and fabric type.
Don't use harsh chemicals, abrasive cleaners, or excessive water. Always test any cleaning solution on an inconspicuous area first. How often should I vacuum my couch?
What do I do if I spill something on my couch?
Is it worth getting a fabric protector for my couch?
My couch smells a bit musty. What can I do?
What cleaning solution should I use on my leather couch?
What cleaning methods work best for different couch materials?
How can I remove a specific type of stain from my couch (e.g., coffee, wine)?
What should I avoid doing when cleaning my couch?
| Got any questions or point of view on our article? We would love to hear from you. Write to our Editor-in-Chief Jhumur Ghosh at jhumur.ghosh1@housing.com |
