If you want to clean a sofa at home easily and safely, this guide will show you exactly how to do it.
If you want to clean a sofa at home easily and safely, this guide will walk you through every step. With simple tools and household ingredients, you can remove stains, eliminate bad smells, refresh the fabric, and keep your sofa looking new — without hiring a professional.
Clean a Sofa at Home
This guide will make it easier for anyone to clean a sofa at home using simple, safe, and effective steps.
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Vacuum cleaner
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Mild dish soap
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Baking soda
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White vinegar
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Spray bottle
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Microfiber cloths
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Soft brush
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Warm water
These materials are safe for most fabric sofas and help you clean a sofa at home without damaging the fabric.
Step-by-Step: How to Clean a Sofa at Home
1. Vacuum the Entire Sofa
Start by removing crumbs, dust, dirt, and pet hair.
To clean a sofa at home effectively, make sure to use the right materials.
Use a brush attachment to reach corners, seams, and under the cushions.
A clean surface helps cleaning products work more effectively.
2. Remove Odors with Baking Soda
Sprinkle baking soda generously across the sofa.
Let it sit for 15–20 minutes to absorb odors.
Vacuum again thoroughly.
This step alone dramatically improves freshness.
3. Spot Clean Visible Stains
Mix a cleaning solution:
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1 cup warm water
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1 teaspoon mild dish soap
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1 tablespoon white vinegar
Dip a microfiber cloth into the mixture and gently blot the stain.
Avoid rubbing — it can push the stain deeper into the fabric.
Repeat until the stain fades.
4. Deep Clean the Sofa Fabric
For a deeper clean:
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Fill a spray bottle with the same soap–vinegar mixture.
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Spray lightly across the fabric (do NOT oversaturate).
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Scrub gently with a soft brush in circular motions.
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Wipe away excess moisture with a dry cloth.
This method helps remove dirt buildup and makes the sofa look brighter.
5. Clean the Cushions Separately
If the cushion covers are removable, wash them according to the label.
If not:
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Sprinkle baking soda
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Let it sit
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Vacuum
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Spot-clean as needed
Cushions tend to hold most of the odors, so this step is essential.
6. Refresh Strong Odors (Optional)
Mix inside a spray bottle:
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1 cup warm water
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½ cup white vinegar
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A few drops of lavender or lemon essential oil
Lightly mist the sofa to neutralize heavy smells.
This is safe for most fabrics and dries without leaving a scent of vinegar.
7. Allow the Sofa to Dry Completely
Let the sofa air-dry naturally.
Improve airflow by opening windows or turning on a fan.
Do NOT sit on the sofa until it’s fully dry to avoid new marks.
Extra Tips for Cleaning a Sofa at Home
How to Remove Strong Odors from a Sofa
If your sofa has strong smells from food, pets, or sweat, you can refresh it easily.
Sprinkle baking soda over the entire surface and leave it for at least one hour, or even overnight for heavy odors.
After waiting, vacuum the sofa thoroughly.
For deeper deodorizing, lightly mist the surface with a mixture of water, vinegar, and a few drops of lemon essential oil.
Let it dry naturally.
Tips for Cleaning Fabric Sofas
Fabric sofas can absorb stains quickly, so it’s important to treat spills immediately.
Blot liquid stains with a dry cloth — do NOT rub.
For water-safe fabrics (marked with W), use warm soapy water.
For solvent-only fabrics (S), use a dry-cleaning solution instead of water.
Always test on a hidden area of the sofa first.
Tips for Cleaning Leather Sofas
Leather requires softer cleaning.
Mix a solution of water + a few drops of mild soap, wipe gently, and dry with a clean cloth.
Avoid using vinegar on leather — it can dry it out.
Once a month, apply a leather conditioner to prevent cracking and fading.
When Should You Call a Professional Cleaner?
In some cases, cleaning the sofa yourself will not be enough:
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Deep mold or mildew
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Persistent unpleasant smells
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Very old stains that won’t lift
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When the fabric is delicate or expensive
If you notice these issues, a professional cleaning service may be the safest optio
Check the Cleaning Code
Most sofas have a tag with letters:
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W – Water-based cleaners are safe
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S – Use solvent-based cleaners only
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W/S – Both are safe
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X – Vacuum only (no liquids!)
Always check the code before applying liquids.
For Leather Sofas
Leather requires gentler care:
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Use a dedicated leather cleaner
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Wipe with a microfiber cloth
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Apply conditioner once a month to prevent cracking
When to Call a Professional Cleaner
Call a specialist if:
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The fabric is delicate
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There are deep or old stains
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The sofa has mold or water damage
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Odors remain after multiple cleanings
By following these methods, you can clean a sofa at home quickly and maintain it regularly without professional help.
Conclusion
Learning how to clean a sofa at home is simple when using the right methods. Baking soda removes odors, soap and vinegar lift stains, and regular vacuuming keeps your sofa fresh.
With just a few basic materials, you can restore your sofa’s appearance, extend its lifespan, and keep your home clean and smelling great.
For additional safety information about cleaning products and stain removal, you can check the official Mayo Clinic guide: https://www.mayoclinic.org
These tips ensure you always know how to clean a sofa at home the right way.