Upholstery sofa cleaning

What is the best way to deep clean a fabric sofa?

Let’s be honest our sofas go through it all. From crumbs and spills to pet hair and everyday life, they can quickly start to look a bit… well-loved.

But don’t worry, you don’t need to replace it or spend a fortune with a few simple tricks, you can get your sofa looking and smelling fresh again. Let’s give it a proper reset! ✨

1. The Bicarb Freshen-Up (So Simple, So Good!)

This is my go-to for a quick sofa refresh, especially if it’s holding onto smells.

• Sprinkle bicarbonate of soda all over your sofa

• Leave it for at least 30 minutes (longer if you can)

• Vacuum it up using a handheld vacuum with strong suction

It helps absorb odours and freshens everything up without getting anything wet.

✦ Bicarbonate of Soda
✦ Cordless Vacuum

Lynsey Tip: Don’t skip the creases and corners — that’s where all the hidden dust sits!

2. Tackling Stains Properly

Spills happen, but it’s how you deal with them that makes all the difference.

• Mix warm water, a splash of white vinegar, and a drop of washing-up liquid

• Use a soft brush or cloth to gently work it into the stain

• Always blot never rub (this just spreads it!)

✦ White Vinegar
✦ Soft Cleaning Brush
✦ Microfibre Cloths

3. The Pet Hair Hack You NEED

If you’ve got pets, you’ll know the struggle…

• Pop on a damp rubber glove

• Run your hand over the sofa

• Watch the hair gather into clumps (so satisfying!)

For something a bit stronger, I always recommend a Chom Chom roller it’s brilliant and reusable.

✦ Rubber Cleaning Gloves 
✦ Chom Chom Roller

4. Protect & Maintain (This Saves You Work!)

Once it’s clean, keep it that way:

• Use a washable throw to protect high-use areas

• Give it a monthly refresh with a handheld steamer to kill bacteria and lift the fabric

• Vacuum regularly to stop build-up

✦ Washable Sofa Throw

5. Don’t Forget the Details

Those little areas make a big difference:

• Use a crevice tool to get right down into the sides and under cushions

• Lift cushions and clean underneath (you’ll always find something!)

6. Special Care for Different Fabrics

Not all sofas are the same, so treat them right:

• Velvet sofas: Use a velvet brush after cleaning to lift the pile and avoid marks

• Leather sofas: Skip water use a leather conditioner to keep it soft and prevent cracking

✦ Velvet Brush 
✦ Leather Conditioner 

Lynsey’s Final Tip ✨

A quick weekly vacuum and the odd bicarb refresh will keep your sofa looking clean without needing a big deep clean all the time.

It’s all about little and often and your sofa will stay fresh, comfy, and looking its best for years to come!