Learn how to deep clean a sofa at home with step-by-step instructions. Remove stains, deodorize, and keep your couch fresh using DIY and professional cleaning tips.
A sofa is often the heart of the living room, but over time it can collect dust, crumbs, stains, and even unpleasant odors. Whether you are preparing for guests, tackling spring cleaning, or just want a fresher home, knowing how to deep clean a sofa will make it look and smell like (almost) new again.
This step-by-step upholstery cleaning guide will answer common questions about removing stains, deodorizing, and cleaning different sofa materials, including fabric, microfiber, suede, and leather. Let’s get started…
Why Should You Deep Clean Your Sofa?
Your sofa is one of the most used pieces of furniture in your home. It sees daily wear and tear from eating, lounging, and sometimes even napping. Regular vacuuming helps, but deep cleaning your sofa at home is essential for:
- Removing dust, pet hair (I have two cats and the hair shedding is wild), and allergens
- Eliminating odors from food, pets, or smoke
- Preventing permanent stains from setting
- Extending the life of the upholstery
- Keeping your home feeling fresher and more hygienic
Households with pets or children will especially benefit from DIY sofa deep cleaning tips, as it reduces bacteria and helps fabric look newer for longer.
How Often Should You Deep Clean a Sofa?
The answer depends on usage and lifestyle:
- Every 6–12 months: For most households without pets or children.
- Every 3–6 months: For homes with pets, small children, or heavy daily use.
- Immediately: After major spills to prevent stains.
If you are wondering, “How often should you clean a couch?” the rule is simple …vacuum weekly, spot clean as needed, and deep clean at least twice a year.
Can You Deep Clean a Sofa at Home?
Yes! In most cases, you can deep clean a sofa without hiring professionals if you have the right tools and know your sofa’s material. Check the care label before starting:
- W: Safe for water-based cleaners
- S: Use solvent-based cleaners only
- WS: Safe for both water- and solvent-based cleaners
- X: Vacuum or brush only; professional cleaning recommended
If your sofa has an X code, it is best to avoid DIY methods and call a professional to prevent damage.
What Supplies Do You Need to Clean a Sofa?
The best sofa deep cleaning kit may include:
- Vacuum cleaner with upholstery attachment
- Soft-bristled brush
- Microfiber cloths
- Warm water bucket
- Mild dish soap or upholstery cleaner
- Baking soda
- White vinegar
- Spray bottle
- Steam cleaner (optional for fabric sofas)
If you are learning how to clean a leather sofa, you will also need leather cleaner and conditioner.
Best Homemade Cleaner for Fabric Sofa
If you prefer to avoid harsh chemicals or expensive store-bought cleaners, you can easily make an effective homemade cleaner for a fabric sofa using common household ingredients. Not only is it budget-friendly, but it is also safer for kids, pets, and sensitive skin.
Why Use a Homemade Sofa Cleaner?
Homemade cleaners can be just as effective as commercial products for everyday dirt, light stains, and odor removal. They also allow you to control the ingredients, avoiding unnecessary fragrances or harsh solvents.
Simple All-Purpose Fabric Sofa Cleaner
This recipe works for most W and WS code sofas. Always test it on a small, hidden spot first to check for colorfastness.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups warm water
- 1 tablespoon mild dish soap
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
- Optional: a few drops of essential oil (lavender, lemon, or eucalyptus) for a fresh scent
Instructions:
- Mix all ingredients in a spray bottle.
- Lightly mist the fabric — do not saturate.
- Gently blot with a clean microfiber cloth, working in small sections.
- Rinse the cloth with plain water and blot again to remove soap residue.
- Allow the sofa to air dry completely.
Homemade Odor Neutralizer
For how to deodorize a sofa naturally, sprinkle baking soda over the fabric, let it sit for 20–30 minutes, then vacuum it up. Baking soda is excellent for absorbing odors from pets, spills, and daily use.
When to Avoid Homemade Cleaners
If your sofa has an S or X cleaning code, skip water-based DIY solutions and opt for a professional cleaning or dry solvent cleaner to prevent damage.
Using a best homemade cleaner for fabric sofas regularly can help maintain freshness between deep cleans, extending the life of your furniture.
How to Clean a Sofa with Baking Soda and Vinegar
Two of the most effective and affordable natural cleaning agents for sofas are baking soda and white vinegar. When used together or separately, they can tackle stains, neutralize odors, and refresh fabric without harsh chemicals.
Why Baking Soda and Vinegar Work
- Baking Soda: A natural deodorizer that absorbs odors and helps lift dirt from fabric.
- White Vinegar: A mild acid that breaks down stains, kills bacteria, and helps remove soap residue.
Step-by-Step Cleaning Method
This method works best for sofas with a W or WS cleaning code. Always do a patch test on a hidden area before cleaning.
- Vacuum the Sofa
Remove crumbs, pet hair, and loose dirt using a vacuum with an upholstery attachment. - Apply Baking Soda
Sprinkle a generous layer over the sofa cushions and backrest. Let it sit for at least 20–30 minutes to absorb odors and loosen dirt. - Mix the Vinegar Solution
In a spray bottle, combine:- 1 cup white vinegar
- 1 cup warm water
- Optional: a few drops of mild dish soap for added cleaning power
- Lightly Spray the Sofa
Mist the fabric with the vinegar solution, focusing on stained areas. Avoid oversaturating the fabric to prevent water damage. - Blot and Wipe
Use a clean microfiber cloth to blot and gently scrub the fabric. Rinse the cloth with plain water and wipe again to remove any residue. - Dry the Sofa
Allow the sofa to air dry completely before using it. Use fans or open windows to speed up the process.
Pro Tip
For tough stains, apply the vinegar solution directly to the stain, sprinkle baking soda on top, and let the fizzing action lift the dirt before blotting clean.
Cleaning your sofa with baking soda and vinegar is an inexpensive and eco-friendly way to refresh fabric, remove light stains, and eliminate unpleasant smells between deep cleanings.
How to Deep Clean a Fabric Sofa
Cleaning a fabric sofa at home takes a gentle but thorough approach. Here’s how it’s done…
1. Vacuum Thoroughly
Use the upholstery attachment to vacuum cushions, seams, and crevices. This step removes dust, pet hair, and crumbs before wet cleaning.
2. Sprinkle Baking Soda
Baking soda helps deodorize a sofa and loosen dirt. Lightly sprinkle it across the fabric, let it sit for 20–30 minutes, then vacuum it up.
3. Test a Hidden Area
Before applying any cleaner, test it on a hidden spot to ensure it does not discolor the fabric.
4. Prepare a Cleaning Solution
For W or WS fabrics, mix mild dish soap with warm water. Add a splash of white vinegar to tackle odors.
5. Spot Clean Stains
For how to remove stains from a sofa, blot the spot with a damp microfiber cloth dipped in your solution. Do not rub — this pushes the stain deeper.
6. Clean the Entire Sofa
Dampen a clean cloth with your solution and wipe down the sofa in small sections. Rinse your cloth often.
7. Let It Dry
Allow your fabric sofa to dry completely before use. Use fans or open windows to speed drying.
How to Deep Clean a Microfiber Sofa
Microfiber is durable but requires specific care:
- Use a dry brush or vacuum to loosen dirt.
- Check your sofa’s label (many microfiber sofas require a solvent cleaner).
- For water-safe microfiber, mix dish soap and warm water, then gently blot stains.
- For S-code microfiber, use rubbing alcohol on a cloth and lightly scrub.
How to Deep Clean a Leather Sofa
Leather needs special treatment to stay soft and prevent cracking.
1. Vacuum and Dust
Vacuum with a soft brush attachment, then wipe with a dry microfiber cloth.
2. Apply Leather Cleaner
Gently clean the surface using a dedicated leather cleaner. Avoid harsh chemicals.
3. Remove Residue
Wipe with a damp cloth to remove cleaner, then dry with a towel.
4. Condition the Leather
Apply leather conditioner every 6–12 months to keep it supple.
How to Remove Common Sofa Stains
Food and Drink Stains
- Blot with a clean cloth immediately.
- For water-safe fabrics, use mild dish soap and warm water.
- For greasy stains, sprinkle baking soda, wait 20 minutes, then vacuum.
Ink Stains
- For how to clean ink from a sofa, dab with rubbing alcohol on a cotton ball (test first).
Pet Accidents
- Blot up moisture immediately.
- Apply enzyme cleaner to remove odors.
Can You Steam Clean a Sofa?
Yes , you can steam clean a sofa, but only for sofas labeled W or WS. Steam cleaning a sofa kills bacteria, removes dirt, and refreshes fabric. Avoid using it on silk, suede, or S/X-coded sofas.
How to steam clean a sofa at home:
- Vacuum first.
- Work in sections.
- Allow to dry completely before sitting.
How to Deodorize a Sofa
If your sofa smells musty or like pets, try:
- Baking soda sprinkle and vacuum
- Light mist of vinegar-water solution
- Upholstery-safe fabric freshener spray
These methods work for how to get smells out of couch cushions as well.
How to Clean Sofa Cushions That Can’t Be Removed
- Vacuum thoroughly.
- Use upholstery cleaner on the surface.
- Steam clean if the fabric allows.
- Let dry fully before sitting.
When Should You Call a Professional?
Hire a professional if:
- The sofa has delicate or expensive fabric.
- It has stubborn stains you cannot remove.
- The label says “Dry Clean Only” or X.
Professional Sofa Cleaning Cost
If you are considering hiring a professional instead of doing it yourself, you might be wondering, “How much does professional sofa cleaning cost?” Prices can vary based on location, fabric type, sofa size, and the cleaning method used.
Average Price Range
Most professional upholstery cleaning services charge $50 to $150 for a standard two-seater sofa. Larger sectionals or sofas with specialty fabrics can range from $150 to $300 or more.
Factors That Affect the Price
- Sofa Size and Type
A loveseat costs less to clean than a large sectional or L-shaped sofa. Extra cushions and detailing, such as tufting, can increase the price. - Fabric Material
Leather, suede, and delicate fabrics often require specialized cleaners and techniques, which can raise the cost. - Level of Dirt and Staining
Light maintenance cleaning costs less, while heavily soiled or stained sofas may require multiple treatments, increasing the price. - Cleaning Method
- Steam Cleaning: Effective for most fabrics, usually on the lower end of pricing.
- Dry Cleaning or Solvent Cleaning: Often needed for delicate fabrics and typically more expensive.
- Deep Extraction Cleaning: Removes embedded dirt and allergens, priced at the higher end.
- Additional Services
Some companies offer extras like fabric protection sprays, deodorizing treatments, or stain guard application, which can add $20–$50 to the total.
Is Professional Sofa Cleaning Worth It?
If your sofa has delicate fabric, significant staining, or a “Dry Clean Only” label, professional cleaning can be worth the investment. Professionals have access to industrial-grade equipment and cleaning solutions that can achieve a deeper clean than most DIY methods, while reducing the risk of fabric damage.
For households with allergies or pets, scheduling professional sofa cleaning once or twice a year can help keep your furniture looking and smelling fresh while maintaining indoor air quality.
Tips to Keep a Sofa Clean Longer
- Vacuum weekly.
- Use throws or washable slipcovers.
- Rotate cushions.
- Wipe spills immediately.
- Keep pets off if possible.
Final Thoughts
Knowing how to deep clean a sofa at home will help you maintain a fresh, stain-free, and comfortable piece of furniture. Whether you are working with fabric, leather, microfiber, or suede, the right cleaning method will extend its life and improve your home’s overall appearance.