The couch or sofa is one of the most used items in the house and it costs a pretty penny so is not regularly replaced. This means the pressure to keep it in good condition is justifiably high. Here are some ways to clean and care for yours so that it lasts longer and keeps looking good.
General care tips
Don’t let the sun hit the couch to avoid changing the colour of the coating. Too much sun can damage not just the fabric but can even cause fray.
Avoid jumping on the couch. Jumping on the couch can cause seam breakage. It can also cause it to be less supportive and even damage the frame.
Protect the fabric. Use couch covers or make other linings to cover your sofa. You can also use blankets to cover it. Slipcovers are the best way to keep sofas clean and protect the fabric as well. They are also easier to clean.
Don’t sleep on it. Sofas are not meant for sleeping and lying on for a prolonged time will cause them to sag and even deteriorate over time. A short nap is fine but a full 8-hours overnight is not a good idea.
If at all possible, rotate the cushions and pillows on your couch at least each week for even wear. Distributing wear and tear in this way extends the life of your cushions by preventing them from developing indentations right away. Change the cushions around from one part to the other in addition to turning them over. Some seats get more usage than others so this further ensures even usage.
The most perilous time for furniture is doing a move from one place to another. Always lift rather than push, pull or drag the couch. Handle with care.
Cleaning tips
All cleaning should be in line with the codes for the fabric of your sofa and the manufacturer’s recommendations.
1. Clean the sofa daily
It doesn’t have to be an intensive cleaning job daily. However, you should use a duster or a soft-bristled brush or the low speed of a vacuum cleaner to do a quick daily clean. Using a duster or brush removes any loose particles and prevents buildup between cleaning. Otherwise, cleaning should be done at least once a week.
2. Get to stains quickly
Attack spills and stains immediately. Waiting too long can even if it’s just a few extra minutes can cause the stain to set making it harder to remove. Never rub, blot gently with a clean towel or white fabric. If you must use a product to clean, test it on an inconspicuous area before using it on the rest of the couch just to be safe.
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3. Clean with baking soda
Sprinkling baking soda over the entire couch will help remove stains and further loosen stains. Baking soda solution is also great for removing any deep-set stains. In a bowl, mix together equal parts baking soda and water and use that to clean the couch. For either dry or wet baking soda usage, let it sit for 15-20 minutes. Once it has fully absorbed the stain, vacuum it up with a brush attachment. Lifestyle: 22 Different Uses Of Baking Soda Around The House
4. Air dry
Let your fabric and sofa air dry overnight and enjoy a fresh sofa in the morning.
5. Call a professional
The best practice is to have a professional clean your couch every few years or so. Taking too long means the sofa becomes visibly dirty. The dirtier a sofa becomes, the harder it is to restore it to its original glory. Also, get regular maintenance done on the rest of the couch. Get screws and bolts tightened as well as any wobbly foot before it gets worse.
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