How to Clean a Couch
Care for the center of your living room oasis for years of unsullied lounging.
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You Will Need
- A vacuum with an upholstery attachment
- A soft dust cloth
- Dish soap
- Upholstery stain remover
- Cream leather cleaner
- A rug shampoo machine
- A steam cleaner
Steps
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Step 1
Vacuum
Remove the cushions and vacuum everything thoroughly with the upholstery attachment to remove loose dust, dirt, hair, and food particles. Once weekly is recommended.
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Step 2
Dust
Dust non-upholstered parts of the couch, including frames and legs, with a soft cloth.
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Step 3
Remove stains
Read the label on the couch to get fabric descriptions and cleaning instructions. Pre-treat stains with mild dish soap and a damp cloth. Then apply upholstery stain remover.
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Always test cleansers on a small, hidden area of the couch. Allow it to dry and look for any marks before continuing.
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Step 4
Clean leather
Clean a leather couch by polishing it with cream leather cleaner and a soft cloth.
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Step 5
Deep clean
Test a hidden spot. Then deep clean the couch with fabric-specific shampoo and a rug shampooer. Clean the entire couch to avoid spots.
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Step 6
Steam clean
Rent a steam cleaner if your couch says, "dry clean only." Test on a hidden area before you clean.
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Freud's famous psychoanalysis couch is on display at the Sigmund Freud Museum in London.
