Your couch is more than just a piece of furniture—it's the centerpiece of your living space, the hub for movie nights, and the front row seat to family gatherings. But with frequent use comes the inevitable dirt, spills, and wear. 

That's why regular couch cleaning isn't just a chore; it's essential to keeping your favorite spot both inviting and hygienic.

Here’s how often you should clean your couch and the best industry methods to keep it dirt-free:

How Do You Routinely Clean a Couch?

To keep your couch looking its best, start with weekly vacuuming to pick up crumbs and dust. 

Fluff and rotate the cushions to maintain its shape and even wear, blot spills immediately (don't rub!) with a clean, damp cloth, and use manufacturer-approved cleaners for any stubborn stains.

Understanding Your Couch’s Material

Couches come in all sorts of materials, from plush fabrics to sleek leathers, and each type demands its own care strategy—fabric couches need a fabric cleaner and microfiber needs a solvent based cleaner while leather couches require conditioners to prevent cracking, for example. 

Always check the manufacturer's instructions for material-specific advice.

Determining Cleaning Frequency

How often should you clean your couch? If you're a once-a-week vacuuming kind of person and don't have pets, that might be enough. Homes with kids, pets, or allergy sufferers may need to clean more frequently. Aim for a deep clean every six months to keep it fresh and extend its life.

Contact COIT for a professional cleaning!

Will a Wet Couch Mold?

If a couch remains wet for too long, yes, it can mold. 

To avoid this, dry any damp areas quickly with a fan or hairdryer on a cool setting, and ensure good air circulation around the furniture.

When to Call Professionals

When you're facing tough stains, a general funk, or it's just time for that bi-annual deep clean, it's wise to call in the pros. 

Professional upholstery cleaning services can tackle the deep dirt and grime that DIY efforts might miss. Plus, professionals can offer specific treatments like pet odor removal and protective sprays.

Maintaining Your Couch

Keep your couch's fresh look between cleanings by implementing a no-food policy and using throws and covers, especially if pets are part of the family. 

As well, quick spot cleaning and immediate attention to spills can prevent most stains from setting in.

Common Issues and Solutions

Tackling Tough Stains

When it comes to stains, the type of spill matters. 

For food and drink spills, a good fabric cleaner is essential. For example, if you spill red wine, blotting the stain and applying a mixture of dish soap and hydrogen peroxide can lift it before it sets. For coffee stains, lemon juice or vinegar mixed with water should do the trick. 

For ink or oil marks, rubbing alcohol or a dedicated grease remover can do the trick. For specific spells, like candle wax, you’ll need ice and an iron to lift the stain. 

Eliminating Pet Odors

Pet stains and odors can be especially stubborn. An enzyme-based cleaner is not only effective for neutralizing these smells but also safe for your pets. 

For example, if your dog loves lounging on the couch, an enzymatic cleaner can tackle the 'wet dog' smell and even urine accidents that might happen now and then.

Sensitive Fabric Care

If your couch is made of a delicate material like silk or linen, harsh chemicals are a no-go. 

For these fabrics, it's often best to stick with water and a mild detergent, or better yet, consult a professional. Always perform a patch test on an unseen part of the couch to avoid any mishaps.

Deodorizing DIY Style

Sometimes, all your couch needs is a bit of freshening up. Baking soda is a great natural deodorizer—sprinkle it on the couch, let it sit for a few hours to absorb odors, then vacuum it up. This can be particularly helpful for removing that musty smell that sometimes sets in with age or humidity.

How often you clean your couch really comes down to your lifestyle and the kind of traffic your couch sees. But one thing's for sure: Regular cleaning keeps your couch comfortable, clean, and durable. 

With these tips and tricks up your sleeve—and the occasional help from cleaning professionals—your couch will continue to be the best seat in the house.

Contact COIT for a professional cleaning!