How to Clean a Cotton Sofa

How to Clean a Cotton Sofa
Published: Jun 29, 2010
Updated: Nov 20, 2021
2 minute read

Over time your cotton sofa may begin to look a bit dingy as dust settles in and dirt tracked in from kids and pets works its way in between the fibers. If your sofa is due for a good cleaning it takes a small time investment and a few household materials to get it looking brand new once again.

Things You Will Need

  • Vacuum cleaner with brush attachment
  • Bleach-free laundry detergent
  • White vinegar
  • Dryer sheet
  • Dish detergent
  • Electric mixer
  • Clean cloths
  • Fan
  • Baking soda
  1. Remove the couch cushions and vacuum the entire sofa with the brush attachment of a vacuum cleaner to remove dust, pet hair and dirt. Vacuum over the cushions as well.

  2. Remove the cushion covers from the foam inside and machine wash them with warm water and a bleach-free detergent. If you have pet odors from cats and dogs sleeping on the sofa, add 1 cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle to help eliminate them. Machine dry the covers with a scented dryer sheet or hang them out to dry in the sunshine.

  3. Add 2 tbsp. of a bleach-free dish or laundry detergent into 1 qt. of warm water and mix it up with an electric mixer to create lots of bubbles.

  4. Dip a soft clean cloth or sponge into the suds and wipe down the upholstered surface with it.

  5. Dip a second cloth in warm water and wring it out well to wipe down the upholstery and remove any residual soap.

  6. Spot treat stubborn stains with a clean cloth dipped in white vinegar.

  7. Place a fan nearby to help the sofa to dry quickly.

  8. Reassemble the cushions and place them back on the sofa once it is completely dry.

  9. Sprinkle baking soda liberally over the sofa and leave it there overnight if you are dealing with odors. Vacuum it up in the morning.

The Drip Cap

  • Both soft and comfortable, your cotton sofa is the perfect addition to your living room.
  • Perhaps it’s so comfortable that your family spends considerable time on it.
  • Vacuum over the cushions as well.
  • Sprinkle baking soda liberally over the sofa and leave it there overnight if you are dealing with odors.

Photo Credits

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA image by ahmadismail from Fotolia.com

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA image by ahmadismail from Fotolia.com

Melynda Sorrels

Melynda Sorrels spent 10 years in the military working in different capacities of the medical field, including dental assisting, health services administration, decontamination and urgent medical care. Awarded the National Guardsman’s…

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