How to Clean a Couch (Fabric, Microfiber and Leather)
Your couch probably gets more use than any other piece of furniture in the house. Movie nights, snacks, kids, pets and naps all leave a mark. Over time the fabric looks dull, the cushions smell a bit stale and there is a mystery stain or two.
The good news is that most couches clean up well at home. The key is knowing what your fabric can handle. Here is how to clean a couch step by step, with tips for fabric, microfiber and leather, and how to deal with stains.
Quick answer: To clean a couch, first check the cleaning code on the tag. Vacuum the whole couch, including under the cushions, then sprinkle it with baking soda, wait at least 20 minutes and vacuum again. For stains on a W or W/S coded fabric, dab with a cloth dipped in warm water mixed with a little dish soap, blotting from the outside in. Rinse by blotting with a damp cloth, then let it air dry.
Step 1: Check the Cleaning Code
Look for a tag under the cushions or on the bottom of the couch. It usually has a letter that tells you which cleaners are safe. According to Living Spaces:
| Code | What it means | What to use |
|---|---|---|
| W | Water-based cleaning is OK | Mild soap and water, upholstery foam |
| S | Solvent only, no water | Dry-cleaning solvent; consider a pro |
| W/S or SW | Water or solvent | Either, but go gently; a pro is safest for big jobs |
| X | Vacuum only | No liquid cleaners at all; brush and vacuum |
If there is no tag, test any cleaner on a hidden spot first, like the back or underneath.
Step 2: Vacuum Everything
Remove the cushions and use the upholstery attachment to vacuum every surface: the top, sides, back, seams and the deck under the cushions. Use the crevice tool for corners where crumbs collect. Vacuuming first keeps dirt from turning into mud when you add liquid later.
Step 3: Deodorize With Baking Soda
Sprinkle a light, even layer of baking soda over the fabric. Let it sit for at least 20 minutes, or a few hours if the couch smells, then vacuum it up thoroughly. Baking soda is safe for most fabrics, but skip it on X-coded material if you are unsure and just vacuum.
Step 4: Spot Clean Stains
For W or W/S fabrics, mix a cup of warm water with a few drops of clear dish soap. Dip a white cloth in the mix, wring it out well, and dab the stain. Work from the outside of the stain toward the center so it does not spread. Living Spaces stresses blotting instead of rubbing, which can damage the fibers.
- Food and drink: Blot right away, then use the soapy water method.
- Grease: Sprinkle baking soda or cornstarch to soak up the oil, wait 15 minutes, vacuum, then spot clean.
- Ink: On W/S fabrics, a little rubbing alcohol on a cotton ball can lift it. Test first.
- Pet accidents: Blot, then use an enzyme cleaner made for upholstery to break down the odor.
Step 5: Rinse and Dry
Dampen a clean cloth with plain water and blot the area to remove soap residue, which can attract dirt. Then press a dry towel on the spot. Let the couch air dry with a fan running or a window open. Avoid using a hair dryer, which can leave water rings or shrink the fabric.
How to Clean a Microfiber Couch
Microfiber is often coded S, so check the tag. If it says S, use rubbing alcohol in a spray bottle: mist lightly, then scrub with a white sponge and let it dry. Brush the fabric with a soft brush once dry to fluff it up. If it says W, the soapy water method works.
How to Clean a Leather Couch
- Vacuum or dust to remove crumbs and grit.
- Wipe with a cloth barely dampened with water and a drop of mild soap.
- Wipe again with a clean damp cloth, then dry.
- Apply a leather conditioner every 6 to 12 months to keep it soft.
- Keep leather out of direct sun and away from heaters, which can dry and crack it.
How to Deep Clean a Couch
For a once-a-year deep clean on W-coded fabric, you can use an upholstery steam cleaner or rent a carpet cleaner with an upholstery tool. Follow the machine’s directions, do not oversaturate the fabric, and let it dry completely before sitting on it. For S or X fabrics, or an expensive couch, hire a professional upholstery cleaner.
How Often Should You Clean a Couch?
- Vacuum weekly or every other week.
- Spot clean spills right away.
- Deodorize with baking soda monthly.
- Deep clean once or twice a year, or more if you have pets or kids.
While you are freshening up the living room, see our guides on how to clean a mattress and how to clean a fan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use vinegar to clean my couch?
On W-coded fabric, a mild mix of white vinegar and water can help with odors. Test it on a hidden spot first and blot, do not soak.
Can I wash couch cushion covers in the washing machine?
Only if the care label says they are removable and washable. Many covers shrink, so wash in cold water and air dry.
How do I get a smell out of my couch?
Vacuum, sprinkle with baking soda, and leave it for a few hours or overnight before vacuuming again. For pet odors, use an enzyme cleaner.
What does X mean on a couch tag?
It means vacuum only. Do not use water or solvent cleaners. Call a professional for stains.
The Bottom Line
Knowing how to clean a couch starts with the cleaning code. Vacuum thoroughly, freshen with baking soda, and blot stains with the right cleaner for your fabric. Rinse, let it dry, and keep up with quick weekly vacuuming so a big clean is rarely needed.
Always follow the manufacturer’s care instructions and test any cleaner on a hidden area first. When in doubt, especially with S or X coded fabrics, contact a professional upholstery cleaner.
