How to Keep Your Fabric Sofa Looking Fresh and Flawless

You’ve found the sofa of your dreams—comfortable, stylish, and just right for your space. Naturally, you’ll want to keep it looking as lovely as the day it arrived.

From biscuit crumbs to the occasional splash of red wine, knowing how to clean and care for your fabric sofa will help keep it looking showroom-fresh.

Opted for a pale fabric or a bold hue that shows marks more easily than darker shades? Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered.

Below, you’ll find four simple steps for cleaning your fabric sofa at home, plus some practical tips to help it stay smart and stylish for years to come.

Step 1: Brush Off the Bits

If you're anything like us, the sofa is where you enjoy a cuppa—and maybe one too many biscuits. Naturally, that means the odd crumb is going to appear.

Start by removing any loose dust, pet hair or snack debris from the surface. A quick brush with your hand works well, or use a soft cloth if you’d rather keep things tidy.

This simple step stops dirt from becoming embedded in the fabric when you vacuum later.

Step 2: Time to Vacuum

Once you’ve cleared the surface debris, it’s time to bring out the vacuum cleaner.

Use a soft brush attachment to clean upholstery without damaging the fabric. Gently glide it over the cushions, arms and base to lift out any hidden dust and buildup.

Got a narrow nozzle attachment? Even better. It’s ideal for those hard-to-reach gaps between cushions—where you’re just as likely to find a coin or hair grip as last week’s popcorn.

Pro tip: Always check for lost items (like glasses or keys) before you begin.

Step 3: Deal With Stains the Easy Way

Let’s face it—between morning coffees, Friday night takeaways and the odd red wine spill, accidents happen. But stains don’t need to be permanent.

You can use a shop-bought upholstery cleaner, or if you’re in a pinch, try this easy homemade option using ingredients you likely have on hand:

DIY fabric sofa cleaning solution:

• 1 tsp bicarbonate of soda
  
  

• 1 tsp washing-up liquid
  
  

• 1 cup of warm water
  
  

Dip a clean cloth into the solution and gently blot the stained area. Avoid scrubbing—just a light touch and a little patience. Let it air dry fully before using the sofa again.

Step 4: A Final Wipe-Down

To finish up, give your sofa a gentle once-over with a damp (not soaking) cloth. This helps remove any leftover dust or cleaning residue, leaving the fabric feeling fresh.

Let the fabric dry completely before you sit back down. In a hurry? Open a window or use a fan to help speed up the drying time.

Extra Tips to Keep Your Sofa Looking Spotless

Keeping your sofa clean isn’t just about dealing with mess as it happens—it’s about forming good habits that help maintain its look and feel.

☀️ Keep it out of direct sunlight

Too much sunlight can cause fabric colours to fade. Try positioning your sofa away from bright windows, or use sheer curtains to soften the light.

🧼 Tackle stains straight away

It’s tempting to leave it for later, but the sooner you treat a spill, the easier it is to remove. Dab gently—don’t scrub—and allow the fabric to air dry.

🛋 Fluff and flip your cushions

A quick fluff each week helps maintain shape and comfort. Rotating or flipping your cushions regularly also helps them wear more evenly over time.

Enjoy Your Sofa, Stress-Free

Caring for a fabric sofa is easier than you might think. With a few simple habits and a bit of TLC, you can keep it looking its best—and get back to relaxing in comfort and style.

FAQs: Fabric Sofa Care

How often should I clean my fabric sofa?

Light surface cleaning, such as brushing and vacuuming, should be done weekly. A deeper clean or spot treatment is recommended every few months—or sooner if spills occur.

Can I use baking soda to freshen my sofa?

Yes! Sprinkle a light layer over your sofa, leave it for 20–30 minutes, then vacuum it off. It helps absorb odours and lift minor surface dirt naturally.

What’s the best way to remove stains from a fabric sofa?

Blot spills straight away using a clean, damp cloth. For tougher marks, a mild mix of warm water, washing-up liquid and bicarbonate of soda works well for most fabrics. Always spot test first.

Can I use a steam cleaner on my sofa?

Only if the care label says it’s safe. Not all fabrics tolerate steam, so always check the manufacturer’s instructions or consult a professional for delicate materials.