Your couch is used every day and takes a surprising amount of abuse. You may not consider it but the constant rising, sitting, and moving is abrasive. This slowly wears the fibers and introduces dirt into them. In addition, food and drink spills can create stains on your couch and even encourage mold growth. That’s not beneficial for your health.
To combat this it’s essential that you know how to deep clean your couch. However, if you’ve never done this before or simply don’t have the time you’re likely to benefit from a professional couch cleaning company.
Here’s what you need to do:
Check The Label
Your couch will have a label detailing the fabric used to make it, this can help you decide what materials to use when deep cleaning it. It’s likely you’ll find a code on the couch which will help you:
- W – Water
You’re recommended to use water only when cleaning this couch.
- WS – Water Soap
Water and a mild detergent can be used or you can choose a steam vacuum. It’s even possible to use dry detergent on this type of couch.
- X – No Water
Water isn’t an option with this couch, you’ll have to vacuum it to clean it.
- S – Dry Detergent
There are plenty of dry detergent options which can be used with this type of couch, just don’t introduce any water into the mix.
Remove Excess Grime & Stains
Before you do anything else you’ll want to inspect your couch and find the worst affected areas. You may be surprised to discover that baking soda is very effective at removing most embedded dirt.
It is a good idea to test the baking soda on a small, unnoticeable, area first. Once you’re satisfied give the couch a brush with a stiff brush to remove all loose debris.
You can then sprinkle baking soda onto the couch and leave it for 20-30 minutes. If you wish you can mix the baking soda with a dry couch detergent to give it an even deeper clean.
After half-an-hour has passed vacuum the couch with the brush attachment. You’ll be amazed at the transformation.
Particularly difficult stains can be removed with a mixture of dish soap, vinegar, and warm water. Again, you’ll want to test it first. Then apply it to the affected area and allow it to sit for 5-10 minutes. Dab it to remove excess liquid, rubbing will damage the fibers of the couch.
If the label permits it is is a good idea to steam clean the couch after you’ve done the above. This will remove any remaining dirt and ensure it retains an even finish.
You will need to leave the couch to air afterward before using it.
It’s may also be possible to remove the seat covers and wash these in your washing machine, the couch instructions will tell you if this is an option. But, you must follow the instructions, wash them on too high a setting and you may not get them back on your couch.