Most things in your home need to be cleaned once in a while. This includes the couch that you and other family members use. Couch cushions are among the things that many people deal with daily, so if they are not well taken care of, they will wear out quickly.
Flipping couch cushions every two weeks can prevent excessive wear. At the same time, you should make sure to keep the shape of the cushions. It is also recommended to vacuum the cushions or use special brushes once a week or once in two weeks to clean them because the accumulation of dust and dirt on the cushions can cause various stains and in the end cause a bad smell.
Of course, it is better to know that the solutions mentioned only help to reduce wear and stains. It would help if you had a more specific schedule for cleaning your couch cushions. Here, Couch Cleaning Calgary will fully discuss Deep-clean couch cushions, which are one of the essential things at home.
How often should you deep-clean couch cushions?
A good rule of thumb in answering this question is to Deep clean couch cushions at least twice a year, and if you use the couch regularly, it’s better to do it four times a year. If your couch has covers that can be removable, this will be easier, if not, you may have to clean it the same way.
Before doing anything, it is better to check the labels on your couch cushions to make sure what process you should apply to clean them. Couch cushions have special codes that show how you should clean them. As a result, the risk of moisture damage and inappropriate cleaning materials will be eliminated.
Couch Cushion Cleaning Codes
Code S: This code recommends that the product should be dry cleaned. S stands for solvent here, which means that using water causes damage such as shrinkage or severe staining. Using a mild, waterless solvent or dry-cleaning product is the best way to handle this type of product.
Code W: This code is the opposite of the s code. Water-based cleaning is not a problem for this product. Suds from mild detergent solutions or special shampoos without solvents can be very effective.
Code WS: This code means that you should not clean this product with any liquid or foam cleaner. The best way to clean this product is to gently clean the surface of the material with a stiff non-metallic brush and then vacuum.
Code Wash: If you see this code, it means washing and you can wash the product with a washing machine
- Note: Use cold or lukewarm water for all the mentioned processes because hot water will damage the product.
How to Deep clean couch cushions?
Even if you clean your house regularly, couch cushions still need to Deep clean couch cushions every six months. People who own pets may need to deep clean their couch cushions more than anyone else. Here are the main steps of this process:
Vacuuming couch cushions
Before Deep clean couch cushions, remove them from the couch and vacuum all the parts with the help of a vacuum cleaner that is equipped with a cover brush. If the cushions have removable covers, remove them and wash them in cold water with a washing machine or hand wash them together with the cushions.
Fill the tub with water and detergent
Fill the bathtub about one-third full with cold water so that there is enough space for the cushions to be submerged and for your hands to move. Add 1 to 2 tablespoons of detergent. It is better to dilute the detergent with your hands and then spread it in water.
Soak the cushions in detergent
Place the cushions in the detergent and submerge them completely with your hands. Add more water if needed. Depending on the size of the cushions, you may need to wash a maximum of 1 to 2 cushions at the same time.
Agitate and soak cushions
Stir the cushions with the help of your hands so that the water and detergent penetrate completely into their fibers and all the dirt is removed. Allow the cushions to be in the detergent solution for 10 to 15 minutes, then repeat the movements with your hands.
Drain the cushions
After the cushions remain in the detergent solution, drain the detergent solution and press the cushions with your hands to remove the water and foam, then fill the tub with clean water and use your hands to remove excess water and foam. Remove from the cushions again. Repeat this process and if necessary, drain and refill the water tub until the bottom of the cushions is completely removed and the water becomes clear.
Extrude Excess Water
Squeeze as much excess water from the cushions as possible and gently press the cushions to do this, but do not twist them to avoid tearing. Remove the cushions from the tub and place them in clean, dry towels, then squeeze the cushions so that they can absorb more excess water.
Allow the cushions to air-dry
Allow the cushions to air dry completely before putting them back in place. To even out the drying time of the cushions, place them on a mesh rack or turn them at regular intervals. Setting up a dehumidifier or fan near them can also speed up their drying.
How do you deep clean a couch with DIY Upholstery Cleaning Solutions
Creating homemade upholstery cleaning solutions is a cost-effective and environmentally friendly way to refresh your furniture. Here are a couple of recipes using common household ingredients:
1. Baking Soda and Essential Oil Cleaner:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup baking soda
- 5-10 drops of your favorite essential oil (e.g., lavender, tea tree, or lemon)
- Vacuum cleaner with upholstery attachment
Instructions:
- Start by vacuuming the couch thoroughly to remove loose dirt and debris.
- In a bowl, mix the baking soda with a few drops of your chosen essential oil. Baking soda helps neutralize odors, while essential oils add a pleasant fragrance.
- Concentrating on any spots or smells on the upholstery, evenly distribute the baking soda mixture.
- Let the mixture sit for at least 15-20 minutes to allow the baking soda to absorb odors.
- Use the upholstery attachment on your vacuum cleaner to thoroughly vacuum the baking soda from the couch.
2. DIY Vinegar and Dish Soap Upholstery Cleaner:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup white vinegar
- 1 tablespoon dish soap
- 1 cup warm water
- Clean, lint-free cloth or sponge
Instructions:
- Mix white vinegar, dish soap, and warm water in a bowl to create a cleaning solution.
- Dampen a clean cloth or sponge with the solution, making sure not to oversaturate it.
- Gently blot the stained or soiled areas of the upholstery, working from the outside of the stain toward the center.
- Avoid rubbing vigorously to prevent pushing the stain further into the fabric.
- Use a dry, clean cloth to blot the treated areas to absorb excess moisture.
These homemade upholstery cleaning solutions are effective for general cleaning and can help tackle stains and odors. Always test a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure compatibility with your upholstery. Regular maintenance and prompt cleaning of spills duo to the “How do you deep clean a couch” guide can help keep your furniture looking fresh and inviting.
Fabric-Specific Tips for Deep Clean Couch Cushions
When you deep clean couch cushions, you need to adjust your approach based on the type of fabric to avoid damage and achieve the best results. Different materials require different cleaning techniques to maintain their texture and appearance. Here are some fabric-specific tips:
Microfiber
- Vacuum First: Before you deep clean couch cushions made of microfiber, vacuum thoroughly to remove loose dirt and debris.
- Rubbing Alcohol Solution: Use a mixture of rubbing alcohol and water in a spray bottle for spot cleaning. Lightly spray the solution, then gently rub it with clean cloth.
Leather
- Gentle Wipe Down: To deep clean couch cushions made of leather, start with a damp cloth to remove surface dust.
- Leather Cleaner: Apply a leather cleaner with a soft cloth, rubbing gently in circular motions. Always follow up with a leather conditioner to maintain softness.
Velvet
- Brush and Vacuum: Velvet cushions need a gentle touch. Use a soft brush to loosen dirt, then vacuum.
- Mild Detergent: When deep clean couch cushions in velvet, use a mild detergent diluted in water. Dab gently with a cloth and avoid soaking the fabric.
Cotton and Linen
- Mild Detergent: Use a mixture of mild detergent and cold water to deep clean couch cushions made of cotton or linen.
- Air Dry: Allow them to air dry completely, ensuring they don’t shrink or lose shape.
Adapting your cleaning method to the fabric type ensures your deep clean couch cushions process is both effective and safe, preserving the beauty and longevity of your furniture.
Takeaways for deep clean couch cushions process
You should keep in mind that if you regularly carry out the maintenance and Deep clean couch cushions process for your sofa cushions, you will increase their lifespan and maintain their appearance. With simple recommendations such as flipping the cushions every two weeks or vacuuming the cushions regularly, you can reduce damage such as wear and tear.
As we said above, couch cleaning Calgary recommendation is to clean the sofa cushions more than twice a year if you have pets. Be careful to understand the specific codes for the cushions before starting work to avoid damaging them. Following the steps Swift Maids mentioned above will ensure a proper way to wash the cushions.