How Do I Clean a Fabric Sofa?

You are doing some cleaning around your space and realize that your fabric sofa needs attention too. However, you do not know where to start. So, whether you want to get a stain off your sofa or perhaps want to clean the whole of it to keep your room clean and fresh then these are some of the things you can do yourself.

That way, you can save the money you would have spent on hiring a professional to do the entire cleaning for you. If you are wondering ‘how do I clean a fabric sofa’, herein are useful details to get the job done as needed.

Now, there are several reasons why your fabric sofa may need cleaning.

• For hygiene purposes
• Removing stains and germs
• Getting rid of dust, pet hair, and other particles
• Preventing allergies
• Ensuring fresh air around spaces

 

How Do I Clean a Fabric Sofa?

Note that fabric sofas come in four categories. You should find one of the following labels on your sofa to guide you on how to clean it.

• W: This means the sofa can be cleaned using a water-based cleaner.
• S: It indicates a solvent should be used to clean.
• W/S: Asofa with this label can be cleaned using a water-based cleaner or solvent.
• X: This means the sofa should only be vacuumed or cleaned by light brushing only.

Here are several steps to ensure you clean your fabric sofa properly.

 

Step 1: Dusting

Before you start dusting your fabric sofa, check to see if it has removable covers. If it does, remove the covers first to be cleaned separately before you start dusting your furniture. You can use a clean piece of cloth for dusting or a dusting brush to get rid of loose particles.

 

Step 2: Vacuuming

After dusting then you will need to vacuum your fabric sofa using a vacuum with an upholstery attachment. Vacuuming helps you get rid of more debris and dirt for efficient cleaning. Ensure you reach every corner of your sofa.

 

Step 3: Steaming

If your fabric sofa has a W or W/S label then you can steam it after vacuuming. You can use an upholstery steam cleaner here to eradicate dust mites and kill germs lingering around your sofa. Like vacuuming, ensure your steamer reaches all around your sofa for proper deep cleaning.

 

Step 4: Stain Removal

If your sofa has a stain then it will need some extra attention. You can use water and detergent to clean a spot using a clean cloth. If you have been reading on home cleaning then you have probably learnt of the cleaning powers of kitchen ingredients like vinegar and baking soda.

For W and W/S sofas, you can use a mixture of water, white distilled vinegar and dish soap to get rid of stains.

Baking soda is also a valuable cleaning product for S fabric sofas. Sprinkle a suitable amount on the stain, let it rest for about 20 to 30 minutes or longer if it is a serious stain and let baking soda help keep your sofa spotless. Wipe off the residue afterward or vacuum it.

This kitchen ingredient can also be used on W and W/S fabric sofas when mixed with water and dish soap.

 

Step 5: Use a Fabric Sofa Cleaner

Except for X fabric sofas, the other types can be cleaned using a fabric sofa cleaner, which you can get in a supply store near you or order online. With a cleaner, then you are able to eradicate stains, germs and bad smells from fabric sofas.

 

Step 6: Drying and Vacuuming

The next step is to dry your fabric sofa. Use a clean, dry cloth to remove as much moisture as possible from your sofa. If you have a fan then you can also use it to dry your sofa which can be faster than using cloth.

After drying, you need to vacuum your fabric sofa one more time just to get rid of any dirt or residue that may have remained lodged in during the cleaning process.

 

Step 7: Applying a Sanitizing Spray

Lastly, use a sanitizing spray to eliminate any remaining odors and keep your sofa germ free even after cleaning it. The spray also gives your furniture a pleasant smell to keep your space smelling fresh and clean.

If you have removable cushion covers, you can clean them according to manufacturer instructions.

With the above-mentioned guide, then you should have an easier time keeping your fabric sofa clean. Dust, vacuum, steam, remove stains and dry your sofa to keep it clean and more hygienic. Remember to check the label on your sofa to know how to clean it as required to avoid damage.