This article was written by Ryan Podnar, furniture expert at La-Z-Boy South Texas
A sectional sofa is often the centerpiece of a living room, providing a comfortable place for family and friends to gather. However, just like any piece of furniture, sectionals can accumulate dirt, stains, and odors over time.
Regular cleaning is essential to keeping your sectional looking its best and prolonging its lifespan. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you clean your sectional sofa effectively.
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- Check the Care Label
- Vacuum the Entire Sofa
- Spot Clean Stains
- Clean the Entire Surface
- Dry the Fabric
- Fluff the Cushions
- Maintain Regular Cleaning
- Deodorize Your Sofa
1. Check the Care Label
Before you begin, always check the care label attached to your sofa sectional. The care instructions will tell you what type of cleaning products are safe to use and whether the fabric is machine washable or requires professional cleaning.
Most sectionals have a cleaning code that indicates the proper cleaning method:
- W: Use water-based cleaners.
- S: Use solvent-based cleaners.
- WS: You can use either water-based or solvent-based cleaners.
- X: Vacuum only; no water or solvent-based cleaners should be used.
2. Vacuum the Entire Sofa
Start by vacuuming the entire sectional to remove loose dirt, dust, and debris. Use a handheld vacuum or the upholstery attachment on your vacuum cleaner. Make sure to get into the crevices between cushions and along the seams, where dirt often hides.
This step is crucial to prevent dirt from becoming ground into the fabric during the cleaning process.
3. Spot Clean Stains
Once the sectional is free of dust and debris, address any stains. Identify the type of stain you're dealing with (food, drink, ink, etc.), as this will determine the best method of cleaning.
If your sectional's fabric code allows water-based cleaning, you can use a mixture of mild dish soap and warm water. For solvent-based cleaning (if your care tag allows it), consider using rubbing alcohol or a commercial upholstery cleaner.
- To clean with a mild soap solution: Mix a few drops of dish soap with warm water in a spray bottle. Lightly spray the stained area, then blot with a clean cloth. Do not scrub, as this can damage the fabric. Work from the outside of the stain inward to prevent spreading it.
- To clean with a solvent cleaner: Apply a small amount of rubbing alcohol or upholstery cleaner to a cloth and blot the stained area. Test the cleaner on a hidden area of the fabric first to ensure it doesn't cause discoloration.
4. Clean the Entire Surface
Once you've spot cleaned any stains, it's time to clean the entire surface. If your deep sectional sofa has a removable slipcover, remove it and wash it according to the care instructions. If it’s a non-removable fabric, lightly mist the fabric with your cleaning solution (water-based or solvent-based, depending on the fabric’s code). Gently scrub the fabric with a soft brush or cloth to loosen dirt and grime.
If you're using a water-based solution, make sure to avoid over-saturating the fabric, as this can lead to water stains or mold growth. For solvent-based solutions, follow the instructions carefully and ensure proper ventilation in the room.
5. Dry the Fabric
After cleaning, it's important to let your curved sectional sofa dry properly. Avoid using a hairdryer or other heat sources, as excessive heat can damage the fabric.
Instead, allow the sectional to air dry naturally. If you've used water to clean the fabric, use a clean, dry cloth to blot any excess moisture before leaving it to dry completely.
6. Fluff the Cushions
Once the sectional is dry, fluff the cushions to restore their shape. For fabric sectionals, this helps keep the material looking fresh and prevents it from becoming misshapen. If your sectional has removable cushions, you can also rotate them periodically to ensure even wear.
7. Maintain Regular Cleaning
To keep your sectional sofa looking great, maintain a regular cleaning schedule. Vacuum it weekly to prevent the buildup of dust and debris. Address spills and stains immediately to avoid permanent marks. If your sectional has removable covers, consider washing them regularly to keep the fabric fresh.
8. Deodorize Your Sofa
If your sectional is starting to smell musty, sprinkle baking soda over the fabric and let it sit for about 15 minutes before vacuuming it up. This will help eliminate odors and leave your sofa smelling fresh. You can also use fabric fresheners designed for upholstery to give your sectional a clean, pleasant scent.
What’s Next?
Cleaning your sectional sofa is an important part of furniture maintenance, and it doesn’t have to be difficult. By following these simple steps—vacuuming, spot cleaning, full surface cleaning, and regular upkeep—you can keep your sectional looking beautiful and comfortable for years to come.
Remember to always check the care instructions specific to your sofa’s fabric, and when in doubt, consult a professional upholstery cleaner for tough stains or deep cleaning.
If you haven’t gotten your sectional sofa yet, some more information on finding the right one may be helpful to you. This article walks you through what a good foam density for a sofa is.
