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How to Get Ash Out of a Sofa

Lane Cummings

If you find ash on the fabric of your couch, you should always look on the bright side: An ash stain is better and easier to fix than a cigarette burn. An ash stain is most likely the result of a careless smoker not using an ash tray when necessary and allowing some stray ash to fall on your upholstery. It's important to treat an ash stain properly and strategically so that you don't make it worse.

Dry Cleaning Solvent Method

Cigarette ashes belong in the ashtray.

Step 1

Vacuum any loose ash up with the upholstery or crevice attachment.

Step 2

Moisten a soft cloth with dry cleaning solvent.

Step 3

Press the cloth against the ash stain. Blot the stain with a dry corner of the lint-free cloth.

Step 4

Repeat this process until the ash stain is completely gone.

Dish Detergent Method

Step 1

Remove any loose ashes using the upholstery or crevice attachment on the vacuum cleaner.

Step 2

Pour 2 cups of cold water into a small bowl. Add 1 tablespoon of dish detergent. Mix the two well.

Step 3

Dip a lint-free cloth in the mixture. Pat it against the ash stain.

Step 4

Blot the stain with a dry side of the lint-free cloth. Repeat this process until the ash stain is completely gone.

Step 5

Wipe the area with a damp cloth to rinse it.