A couch is one of the most used pieces of furniture in the home, so it’s natural for it to develop unpleasant smells over time. Food spills, pets, moisture, dust and everyday use can all contribute to lingering odours.
The good news is that many couch odours can be treated with the right cleaning approach. In this guide, we’ll walk you through simple and practical steps to freshen your couch, remove the source of unwanted smells and help keep your upholstery clean and comfortable.
Check the Couch Care Label First
Before applying any cleaning product, check the manufacturer’s care label on your couch. Upholstery fabrics can react differently to water and cleaning solutions, so using the wrong method could cause staining, discolouration or damage.
If you are unsure about a product, test a small amount on a hidden area first and allow it to dry before continuing.
Remove Cushions and Prepare the Couch
Start by removing any loose cushions, throws and other items from the couch. Check underneath and between the cushions for crumbs, pet hair and other debris.
Preparing the couch properly makes it much easier to clean all the areas where dirt and odours can build up.
Vacuum the Couch Thoroughly
Use a vacuum cleaner with an upholstery attachment to clean the entire couch, including the seats, backrest, arms and cushions.
Pay particular attention to seams, crevices and underneath the cushions. Removing dust, crumbs, hair and other loose debris before treating odours will help you achieve a much better result.
Treat the Source of the Odour
Once the couch has been vacuumed, focus on the areas causing the smell. Depending on the couch material and its care instructions, an appropriate upholstery-cleaning product may help treat spills, stains and lingering odours.
Avoid soaking the fabric, as excessive moisture can take a long time to dry and may create additional odours. Always follow the product instructions and the manufacturer’s cleaning recommendations.
"For the best results, always check your couch care label before applying moisture or cleaning products, and test any product on a small hidden area first"
Freshen and Finish Your Couch
After treating the source of the odour, allow the couch to dry completely before replacing cushions or using it again. Good airflow can help speed up drying and prevent moisture from becoming trapped in the upholstery.
Allow the Couch to Dry Completely
Keep the room well ventilated and give the couch enough time to dry naturally. Avoid sitting on damp upholstery, as trapped moisture can contribute to musty smells.
Freshen the Surrounding Area
Odours can also come from nearby rugs, cushions, throws or pet bedding. Cleaning these items at the same time can help keep the whole living area smelling fresher.
Know When to Call a Professional
If strong odours remain after cleaning, or you’re dealing with stubborn stains or delicate upholstery, professional cleaning may be the safer option. Kleanest Australia can help with professional upholstery cleaning to refresh your furniture and achieve a deeper clean.
Great post! It’s so important to make the switch to eco-friendly cleaning products. Thanks for sharing these recommendations; I’m definitely going to check some of them out.