Keeping your sofa cushions fresh and clean should be part of your regular upholstery care routine. Over time, cushions accumulate dirt, odors, stains, and more from daily use. Learning the right techniques for cushion cleaning and maintenance will extend the life of your sofa investment.
Understanding Upholstery Soil Types
In order to select the best cleaning method, you need to identify the type of soiling present:
- Dust and dirt – Regular vacuuming prevents buildup in fabrics.
- Stains – Spot clean spills quickly before they set, using blotting and mild cleaners.
- Odors – Baking soda or vinegar remove odors and freshen fabric.
- Grime – A buildup of skin oils and dirt causes dinginess over time.
- Pet hair/dander – Frequent brushing and vacuuming keeps upholstery hair-free.
Pre-Treating Stains and Odors
Before washing covers, apply a targeted pre-treatment to stains to prevent setting:
- Enzyme cleaners – Break down proteins in food, sweat and pet stains.
- Oxygen bleaches – Lift dingy buildup and deodorize without fading color.
- Vinegar – Removes odors naturally without residue.
Always spot test cleaners first on an inconspicuous area to check for discoloration or damage.
Washing Removable Cushion Covers
For machine washable cushion covers:
- Wash in cold water on a gentle cycle using mild powder detergent.
- Air dry or tumble dry on low heat to avoid shrinkage and fading.
- Sort by color and fabric type to prevent bleed and pilling.
- Use zippered wash bags for delicate prone to snagging.
- Wash foam inserts separately from covers.
Deep Cleaning Non-Removable Upholstery
- For cushions with non-removable covers, professional deep cleaning services are recommended every 12–18 months.
- Steam cleaning uses hot vapor extraction to deep clean fibers, lift stains and remove allergens.
- Dry cleaning employs chemical solvents to dissolve and extract ingrained dirt and oils.
Freshening and Sanitizing Cushion Interiors
To refresh cushion filling:
- Sprinkle baking soda liberally over inserts and let sit before vacuuming away.
- Mist with vinegar solution and allow to fully dry to eliminate odors.
- Replace old filling annually to maintain comfort and support.
- Proper cushion care is key to enjoying fresh, clean upholstery. Always refer to fabric labels and follow safe cleaning methods.