Is there a better feeling than coming home after a hard day’s work and lounging on your living room couch? That is, if the sofa is clean, plush, and comfortable. Which leads us to the topic of today’s article – how to keep the most important piece of home furniture in pristine condition.

We will look at the most common questions related to sofa cleaning and give our two cents on hot topics like DIY vs professional care and what materials you should use for specific surfaces. 

How Often Should You Vacuum?

Vacuuming your sofa regularly is the first line of defence against dirt, dust, and residue buildup. Ideally, you should do it at least once a week, especially if you have pets or small children. Use a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment to gently remove surface dirt and pet hair. Pay extra attention to crevices and seams where dirt tends to accumulate.

If your sofa cushions are removable, be sure to vacuum both sides thoroughly. This way, you will prevent odours and keep your sofa looking fresh for longer. Additionally, consider using a handheld vacuum or upholstery attachment to clean fabric sofas more effectively.

When Should You Book a Professional Cleaner?

While regular vacuuming can help maintain the cleanliness of your sofa, there comes a time when professional intervention is necessary. We recommend booking a certified upholstery cleaner every 12 to 18 months to deep-clean and refresh your couch thoroughly.

However, certain factors may warrant more frequent professional cleaning. If you have pets that frequently lounge on the sofa or someone in your household suffers from allergies, you may need to schedule professional cleanings every six to twelve months. Specialised upholstery cleaners have the expertise and equipment to tackle tough stains, remove embedded dirt, and revitalise your furniture.

What Are The Best Furniture Cleaning Methods? 

The furniture cleaning method you choose will largely depend on the fabric type and the nature of the stains. Here are some effective cleaning methods for standard sofa fabrics:

Upholstered Sofas: Start by checking the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions. Most fabric sofas can be spot-cleaned with a mixture of mild detergent and water. Blot the stain gently with a clean cloth, careful not to rub it further. Consider steam cleaning or hiring a professional upholstery cleaner for tougher stains or overall cleaning. We highly recommend Astonish Fabric Stain Remover and Vanish Gold Carpet Care Stain Remover. These products are effective in lifting stains without damaging the fabric.

Leather Sofas: Leather sofas require special care to maintain their luxurious appearance. Wipe spills immediately with a clean, damp cloth to prevent staining. Periodically, use a leather cleaner and conditioner to moisturise the leather and prevent cracking. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaning tools, as they can damage the leather finish.

Our top-notch choice for cleaning materials is Leather Honey Leather Cleaner and Leather CPR Leather Cleaner & Conditioner. They gently clean and condition leather surfaces, keeping them supple and wear-resistant.

Microfibre Sofas: Microfibre sofas are known for their durability and stain resistance. Follow these treatment steps for best results:

1. Use a mild detergent and water solution or a specialised upholstery cleaner.
2. Gently rub the stained area with a soft-bristled brush or sponge, then blot with a clean cloth to absorb excess moisture.
3. Allow the sofa to air dry thoroughly before using it again.

Dr Beckmann Carpet Stain Remover and Pro-Kleen Carpet & Upholstery Shampoo should be on top of your shopping list if you have a microfibre couch. These products are specially formulated to lift stains from microfibre fabric without leaving behind residue or causing discolouration.

DIY vs Professional Cleaning: Making the Right Choice

When it comes to cleaning your sofa, you have two main options: DIY cleaning or professional cleaning. Each approach has its advantages, depending on the level of cleanliness required and the specific needs of your sofa. Let’s explore the benefits of each.

DIY Cleaning

• Cost-effective: DIY cleaning methods are generally more budget-friendly than hiring a professional cleaner. You can use household items such as baking soda, vinegar, and mild detergents to tackle stains and freshen up your sofa.
• Convenience: With DIY cleaning, you have the flexibility to clean your sofa whenever it’s convenient for you. You don’t have to wait for an appointment or schedule around a professional cleaner’s availability.
• Control: Cleaning your sofa yourself gives you greater control over the process. You can choose the products and methods you feel comfortable with and tailor them to suit your sofa’s fabric and condition.
• Immediate action: DIY cleaning allows you to address spills and stains promptly, preventing them from setting in and becoming more difficult to remove over time.
• Learning opportunity: You gain valuable experience and knowledge about the best cleaning methods and products for your specific sofa fabric by cleaning your sofa yourself.

Professional Cleaning:

• Expertise: Professional upholstery cleaners have the training and expertise to clean and revitalise your sofa effectively. They understand the nuances of different fabrics and stains and can tailor their approach accordingly.
• Deep cleaning: Furniture cleaning technicians use specialised equipment and solutions to clean your sofa thoroughly, removing embedded dirt, allergens, and odours that DIY methods may not fully address.
• Time-saving: Hiring a professional cleaner saves you time and effort, as they handle all aspects of the cleaning process from start to finish. You can sit back and relax while they work their magic on your sofa.
• Long-term maintenance: Regular professional cleanings help prolong the lifespan of your sofa and maintain its appearance and integrity over time. The seasoned experts can also provide recommendations for ongoing maintenance and care.
• Peace of mind: With professional cleaning, you can rest assured that your sofa is in good hands. Certified specialists are insured and guarantee their work, giving you peace of mind knowing that your investment is protected.

Ultimately, the choice between DIY and professional cleaning depends on factors such as your budget, time constraints, and the level of cleanliness and maintenance required for your sofa. Whether you opt for a DIY approach or enlist the help of a professional cleaner, prioritising regular cleaning and care will ensure that your sofa remains a comfortable and inviting focal point in your home for years to come.