If you are wondering how to clean a cloth sofa safely and keep it looking fresh, the simplest method is to vacuum it thoroughly, spot clean stains with mild detergent, and allow it to dry properly without soaking the fabric.
Most cloth sofas can be cleaned at home with basic products, but stubborn stains, deep odours, and ageing fabric may require professional treatment to protect the material and prevent long-term damage.
Keeping a cloth sofa clean can feel like a big task, especially when it is one of the most used pieces of furniture in your home. Families, pets, guests, and daily use can all leave marks, spills, and dust behind. Fortunately, with the right steps, you can bring back the comfort and cleanliness of your sofa without risking damage.
1. Check the Cleaning Code First
Many sofas come with a small tag hidden under the cushions or frame showing the recommended cleaning method. These codes usually include:
🗹 W: Water-based cleaners are safe
🗹 S: Solvent-based cleaners only
🗹 WS: Water or solvent cleaners
🗹 X: Vacuum only, no liquid products
If your sofa is marked with X, stick to dry cleaning methods and avoid moisture completely. If water-based products are allowed, you have more flexibility.
Understanding this code is the first step to avoid causing stains, shrinking or colour changes.
2. Start With a Thorough Vacuum
Dust and grit settle deep into cloth fibres. Vacuuming removes loose dirt before it becomes harder to clean. Use:
🗹 A soft brush attachment
🗹 Crevice tools for corners
🗹 Low to medium suction to avoid pulling threads
Vacuum slowly and cover every section, including under cushions and along seams. This helps stop dirt from becoming embedded and also prevents minor marks from turning into permanent stains.
3. Treat Stains Immediately
Whether it is coffee, pet accidents, food spills or general marks, the sooner you act, the better. Follow these steps:
🗹 Blot, do not rub. Rubbing pushes the stain deeper.
🗹 Use cold water, not hot, which can set the stain.
🗹 Apply a small amount of mild liquid detergent mixed with water.
🗹 Blot gently with a clean microfibre cloth.
🗹 Rinse with a lightly damp cloth.
🗹 Dry with a towel to absorb excess moisture.
For oil-based stains, a small amount of solvent cleaner may work better, but always test on an unseen patch first.
4. Deodorise With Baking Soda
Australian homes often deal with humidity, pets and open windows, all of which can cause lingering smells in cloth furniture. Baking soda is safe for most fabrics and helps neutralise odours.
🗹 Sprinkle a thin, even layer over the sofa
🗹 Leave it for 15 to 30 minutes
🗹 Vacuum thoroughly
This method is gentle, affordable and effective for general freshness.
5. Use a Fabric Safe Cleaner
Once dust and spot marks are addressed, you can give the whole sofa a light clean. Choose a cleaner suited to your fabric code.
If safe for water-based products:
🗹 Mix warm water with a small amount of gentle detergent
🗹 Lightly dampen a cloth
🗹 Wipe the sofa in sections
🗹 Avoid over-soaking
If only solvent products are allowed:
🗹 Use a dry cleaning solvent
🗹 Apply sparingly
🗹 Ventilate the room well
Never use bleach or harsh chemicals, as they can damage fibres instantly.
6. Steam Cleaning (Only If Allowed)
Some cloth sofas benefit from an occasional steam clean to remove deep dirt and bacteria. However, this should only be done on fabrics labelled safe for water-based methods.
If using a home steamer:
🗹 Use the lowest heat
🗹 Work in slow, even movements
🗹 Do not hold the steamer in one spot
🗹 Let the sofa dry fully before use
If you are unsure whether your fabric can handle steam, avoid it. Many sofas are not designed for high moisture levels.
7. Dry the Sofa Properly
After cleaning, the fabric should dry fully to avoid mould and musty smells.
Tips for faster drying:
🗹 Open windows for airflow
🗹 Turn on ceiling fans
🗹 Use a portable fan
🗹 Keep pets and kids off until it is completely dry
Even slight dampness can cause issues over time, especially in humid parts of Australia.
8. When To Call a Professional
DIY cleaning is suitable for light maintenance, but some situations need expert help. Contact a professional if:
🗹 Stains are old or deeply set
🗹 The fabric is delicate or expensive
🗹 The sofa has a large water-based spill
🗹 Odours persist even after cleaning
🗹 The cushion filling is affected
🗹 You are unsure of the correct method
A specialist uses safe, tested products and advanced equipment to give your sofa a complete refresh without risking damage.
If you want expert care for your furniture, a friendly soft option is to speak with Demir Leather for guidance and tailored cleaning support.
The Way Forward
For regular cleaning, deep stain removal, or fabric rejuvenation, consider reaching out to Demir Leather. Their team can handle delicate materials safely and help your sofa look fresh again.
Book your expert sofa cleaning today with Demir Leather for safe, reliable, and high-quality results every time.
