Couch Cleaning Time: Ready to Evict the Crumbs?

couch deep cleaning step by step

Let’s Make That Couch Shine Like It’s Brand New

Let’s be honest: our couches have been through a lot. They’ve been our trusty sidekicks through every binge-watching marathon, lazy Sunday snooze, and those sneaky snack sessions where crumbs seem to multiply like magic. All that quality time has left them looking a little less than fresh. But fear not—today, we’re rolling up our sleeves and giving them the VIP treatment they deserve!

Think about it: your couch has been holding down the fort all winter long. It’s been collecting dust, absorbing every spill, and probably even hiding a few snacks we’d rather not think about. But instead of banishing it to the corner of shame, let’s show it some love! A good clean can breathe new life into your favourite lounging spot, making it feel like the cosy sanctuary it was always meant to be.

How to Clean a Couch and Sofa

take your couch covers off and wash them for a deep clean

Step 1: Cleaning the Covers
  • Removable Covers: If your couch has removable covers, it’s time to strip them off. Give them a cool to warm wash with laundry powder. Remember, we’re avoiding any shrinkage disasters here! So, if you’re nervous about the washing machine, hand washing is a safer bet.
  • Non-Removable Covers: If you can’t remove the covers, you can still give them a good clean. Spot clean with soapy water or Figgy Bar Soap. If you have a Bissell cleaner, add 1-2 teaspoons of Home Cleaning Castile Soap to the 1L tank and lightly clean the fabric. Just make sure to avoid soaking the couch too much.

vacuum you sofa when you deep clean it to get all the dust and crumbs

Step 2: Vacuum Like a Pro
  • Remove and Vacuum: Lift off the squabs (fancy word for cushions) if possible, and vacuum all their surfaces along with the base of the couch.
  • For Non-Removable Squabs/Cushions: Use the long, narrow attachment on your vacuum cleaner to get in between those cushions and tackle all those hidden crumbs. Don’t forget to vacuum underneath the couch, where a treasure trove of dust bunnies might be hiding!
Step 3: Rotate and Refresh
  • Rotate the Squabs and Cushions: Once everything is clean and dry, rotate the squabs and cushions. This simple trick spreads out the wear and tear evenly, keeping your couch looking fresh and extending its life.

How to Clean a Leather Couch

Leather couches are luxurious, but they need a bit of extra TLC to keep them looking their best. Here’s how to give your leather the pampering it deserves:

Step 1: Mix Your Leather Cleaner
  • DIY Leather Cleaner: Mix 1 teaspoon of Castile soap in a spray bottle filled with warm water. Shake it up to combine.
  • Spot Test First: Always test your cleaner on a small, hidden area of the couch to ensure it won’t discolor or damage the leather.
Step 2: Clean the Couch
  • Lightly Spray and Wipe: Spray the cleaner onto a soft cloth, not directly onto the leather, and gently rub the couch in circular motions. Focus on any particularly grimy spots, but avoid soaking the leather.
  • Dry It Down: After cleaning, use a dry cloth to wipe away any excess cleaner and allow the leather to air dry naturally.
Step 3: Condition the Leather
  • Condition: Leather needs to stay moisturized to prevent cracking. Use a leather conditioner or a mix of vinegar and oil (1 part vinegar to 2 parts linseed or coconut oil). Apply it with a lint-free cloth, rubbing in gentle circular motions.
Step 4: Regular Maintenance
  • Dust and Spot Clean: Regularly dust your leather with a soft cloth and spot clean as needed using the cleaner to keep it looking its best.

Why You Should Clean Your Couch

Cleaning your couch isn’t just about keeping it looking good—it’s about maintaining a healthy living environment. Over time, they can accumulate dust, pet dander, allergens, and even bacteria. Regular cleaning helps prevent the spread of these allergens and bacteria, which is especially important for those with allergies or respiratory issues. Plus, let’s not forget about those occasional spills and stains. Cleaning your couch removes these before they set in, extending the life of your furniture. And let’s be real: who doesn’t love the feeling of sitting on a fresh, clean couch?

Tips to Keep Your Couch Clean

Keeping your couch looking its best year-round doesn’t have to be a chore. Here are some easy tips to keep it fresh and fabulous:

  1. Vacuum Weekly: Make it a habit to give your couch a quick vacuum once a week. This helps keep dust, crumbs, and pet hair at bay. Use the upholstery attachment to get into all those nooks and crannies—yes, even under the cushions and along the seams.
  2. Spot Clean Spills Immediately: Life happens, and spills are inevitable. When they do, don’t let them linger. Grab some Figgy Bar Soap or Castile soap and a bit of water. A quick dab will help lift those stains before they have a chance to set in. The sooner you tackle them, the better!
  3. Use Protective Covers or Throws: If you’ve got kids, pets, or a habit of eating on the couch, consider using washable covers or throws. They’re super handy for high-traffic areas and can be thrown into the wash when they need a refresh. Plus, they add an extra layer of style and protection to your couch.
  4. Regularly Rotate Cushions: To keep your couch looking even and avoid those lumpy spots, rotate your cushions regularly. This simple trick helps distribute the wear and tear, keeping them in tip-top shape for longer.
  5. Refresh with Baking Soda: If you can smell an odour, sprinkle a thin layer of baking soda on the fabric and let it sit for about 20 minutes. Then, vacuum it up to remove odours. It’s an easy way to keep things smelling clean and inviting.
  6. Deep Cleaning: Follow the deep cleaning steps we talked about above to remove dirt, bacteria, and allergens that get embedded in the fabric. Every six months is ideal, or more often if you’ve got a busy household.

Ready for a Movie Marathon?

Now that your couch is clean and looking fabulous, it’s officially ready for its next big moment—a movie marathon! So, go ahead, sink into those freshly fluffed cushions, grab your favourite snack, and relax. You’ve earned this chill time! Enjoy the cosy vibes and make some new memories on your fresh, clean couch!

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