We’re spending a lot of time indoors, which means many hours on the couch. If your favorite spot seems inundated with crumbs, now is the time to develop a cleaning routine and clean your couch. Try out these 10 steps to get your sofa looking brand-new!
1. Check the manufacturer’s tag
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If you want to clean your sofa the correct way, go right to the source—the tag. You’ll likely see some letters, with some of the most common ones including:
+W: It’s okay to use water or water-based products.
+S: Only use a water-free, solvent-based cleaner.
+X: Only clean by vacuuming or light brushing.
+SW: It’s safe to use water or a solvent cleaner.
2. Break out the vacuum cleaner
Use your trusted vacuum to suck up crumbs, dust and other messes. The fabric attachment or a soft brush head is excellent for getting rid of dirt. Be sure to get into all the nooks and crannies, including beneath removable cushions.
3. Sprinkle on some baking soda
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If there’s a strong bad odor, sprinkle some baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) on the fabric, which bonds with smelly chemicals and turns them into less reactive salts. Let it sit for 30 minutes, then vacuum up the powder with the fabric attachment.
4. Mix dish soap with water
For spot cleaning—combine 2 drops of dish soap with a cup of warm water. Dip a cloth into the bubbles of the mixture and blot the stain without saturating the fabric. Once you’re satisfied, let the fabric air-dry or grab your hairdryer.
5. Use a depiller
To make your favorite seat look new, invest in a depiller, also called a fabric shaver. Run the lightweight gadget over the entire sofa in circular motions to rejuvenate the material.
6. Try out a reliable disinfectant
One easy way to get rid of germs is to use a disinfectant spray or wipes. Be sure to use a bleach-free product and test a small patch of fabric first. Also, avoid any ingredients that can damage the wood of your sofa.
7. Combine white vinegar and water
Vinegar, which is primarily acetic acid, can kill some types of germs and break down dirt. Mix the white variety with water in a spray bottle, then coat the surface of your sofa. Once the liquid dries, the vinegar smell will dissipate.
8. Spray down with bug repellent
If you live in an area that’s prone to pests, spray down the surface of your sofa with bug spray. Though be sure to choose a pet-friendly option if you have furry friends. Open up your windows and allow the fabric to air out for 24 hours.
9. Invest in a steam cleaner
Use a handheld clothing steamer or your steam iron to kill bacteria and remove tough stains on your sofa. Release the steam onto the fabric, then drag the opening over the damp areas to suck up excess water.
10. Call in the couch professionals
Some people may choose to have their home goods professionally washed—like their linens—which you can also do for couch covers and bedding. Expert cleaners will also know how to remove tough stains.
SOURCE: PEXELS
Make your couch spotless
Give your couch a good deep-cleaning. You can find plenty of excellent products on the market, as well as everyday items in your own home.
AUTHOR: KACEY BRADLEY
Kacey Bradley is the blogger behind The Drifter Collective, an eclectic lifestyle blog that expresses various forms of style through the influence of culture and the world around us. Along with writing for her blog, she has written for sites like U.S. News, SUCCESS, Guides for Brides, Hotel Online and more!
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