The Best Way To Clean A Couch

We spend a lot of time on our couches, so they’re bound to get dirty and stained from time to time. Knowing how to clean couch stains is a skill we should all have up our sleeves. Be it an emergency red wine spill or just a buildup of grime from the dog sitting on the couch every day, we have the answers and will show you how to clean a couch effectively!

First, and most important, is making sure you read the manufacturer’s suggestions for cleaning. Couches always come with a cleaning tag, just like your favorite items of clothing. Check the tag for cleaning clues. Here are some codes you’re likely to find and what they mean:

• W – It’s okay to clean this material with water.
• S – Do not use water to clean this material. Use a solvent-based cleaner.
• WS – It’s okay to use water or solvent-based cleaners on this material.
• X – Only vacuum this material. Do not use water or solvent-based cleaners.

PAINTED FURNITURE

Everyday care: Painted furniture is almost the easiest to keep clean. On a weekly basis, dust or wipe clean with a cloth dampened with water. Be sure not to leave water spots on the surface, as they’ll dry and could leave permanent marks.
Special cleaning: If your piece of painted furniture has stains on visible surfaces or nicks and scratches on it, you’ll want to make whatever repairs you can. Gently sand down any mars, taking care not to damage more painted finish than you have to. Carefully glue and clamp any loose joints.
Match the paint as best you can or select a new color of paint and restore the piece to near-perfect condition. Add an oil finish for greatest protection.

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WOOD FURNITURE

Everyday care: Before you decide how to clean your piece of furniture, you need to determine what type of finish it has on it. You should find information about cleaners and conditioners for your wood furniture and information on getting built-up finishes off to expose the beautiful wood underneath. You should use a lint-free cloth to polish your furniture on a regular basis. Use just a little furniture polish on the cloth and rub the surface to get a beautiful shine. When choosing a furniture polish, use the same type for each cleaning, either oil- or wax-based, to avoid polish smudges. Wipe in the direction of the grain of the wood whenever possible.
If you love antiques, you’ll need to be aware of their special needs.

Special cleaning: When it comes time to remove built-up wax, use either mineral spirits or synthetic turpentine with a soft, lint-free cloth. Clean the entire piece with the product, not just the area that’s soiled.

LEATHER FURNITURE

Everyday care: Because leather can dry out and crack, it is recommended that you keep your valuable leather furniture at least two feet from heat sources and out of direct sunlight. Clean the piece with a damp sponge or soft cloth and dust it regularly.
Special cleaning: For excessive soil, use a solution of 1/4 cup white vinegar with 1/2 cup water to clean with a soft cloth. Follow this by washing with leather saddle soap. Rub the furniture with a dry soft cloth.

UPHOLSTERED FURNITURE

Everyday care: Keep upholstered furniture out of direct sunlight as most fabrics will fade. Vacuum surfaces weekly. Flip cushions and pillows regularly so both sides wear evenly. For added safety, carefully apply Scotchguard to help repel spots and stains.
Special treatments: When it comes to cleaning, start out by wiping up any spills and spots as soon as you see them.