Essential Guide: How to Clean a Fabric Sofa

Your sofa is often the heart of your home, but daily use can leave it looking worse for wear. From spilt drinks and crumbs to playful kids and pets, it’s easy for stains and discolouration to set in. Keeping your sofa in good shape not only extends its life but also keeps your home feeling cosy and welcoming. In this fabric sofa cleaning guide, we’ll show you practical steps on how to clean a fabric sofa effectively. These simple tips will help your sofa stay spotless and long-lasting, protecting your investment and keeping it as fresh as when you first bought your fabric sofa.

1. Check the Manufacturer’s Instructions

Before you dive into the cleaning process, it’s a good idea to check the care instructions provided by the manufacturer. You’ll typically find these guidelines on a tag attached to the sofa, which includes essential cleaning codes:

• W: Use water-based cleaners
• S: Use solvent-based cleaners
• WS: Both water-based and solvent cleaners are safe
• X: Professional cleaning only (vacuuming recommended)

Following these instructions is essential to prevent any damage to the fabric. If you’re uncertain, consider doing a patch test with any cleaning solution to see how the material reacts. Sticking to the right products will help you avoid accidentally shortening the lifespan of your sofa while guiding you on how to clean a fabric sofa effectively. Remember these cleaning codes for fabric sofas to keep your sofa looking great!

2. Prepare Cleaning Supplies

Having the right tools and cleaning solutions ready can make the whole process much smoother. For most fabric sofa sets in Singapore homes, you’ll likely need:

• A vacuum with an upholstery attachment
• A soft-bristled brush
• Mild detergent or fabric cleaner
• White vinegar and baking soda (for stubborn odours)
• Microfibre cloths
• A spray bottle
• Solvent-based cleaner (if required by the care code)

Gathering these essentials in advance will help everything go smoothly, whether you’re spot-cleaning or giving your sofa a thorough deep clean as part of learning how to clean a fabric sofa. Being well-prepared also means you’ll avoid any unnecessary delays.

3. Vacuum the Sofa Thoroughly

Now that you have all your supplies and know how to clean your sofa safely, it’s time to get started. First, remove all the dust, dirt and debris that have settled into your living room sofa. Grab your vacuum with an upholstery attachment and give every corner a thorough clean. If your cushions are removable, take them off and vacuum both sides to catch any hidden dirt.

For sofas and other furniture that attract pet hair, a soft-bristled brush can help loosen and remove fur. Regular vacuuming not only improves the appearance of your sofa but also helps reduce allergens, making your space more comfortable for everyone. This is an integral part of how to clean a fabric sofa effectively.

4. Address Stains Promptly

Accidental spills are a part of life, but acting quickly can make all the difference in preventing stains from setting in. Start by gently blotting the affected area with a dry microfibre cloth—avoid rubbing, as this can push the stain deeper into the fabric. Depending on your sofa’s cleaning code, apply an appropriate cleaner to tackle the stain.

After treating the stain, dampen a clean cloth with water and blot the area to remove any leftover cleaning solution. Next, use a dry cloth to absorb any leftover moisture. Acting promptly is one of the most effective sofa stain removal techniques and an essential part of fabric sofa maintenance. These steps will help you master how to clean a fabric sofa and keep it looking fresh and stain-free.

For added protection, we also offer the 3M Scotchgard™ Fabric Water Shield Protector at our showroom. This spray forms a protective layer over your sofa fabric, making it more resistant to both water and stains, perfect for homes with kids or pets. In addition, we carry performance fabric sofas and pet-friendly options designed to handle daily wear while staying stylish and comfortable.

Regular care and prompt stain removal are the secrets to keeping your fabric sofa fresh and hygienic while maintaining both comfort and style. Whether you snagged your piece during a sofa sale in Singapore or picked up a new set from an outlet, following these tips will help prolong its life.

Visit any Star Living store today to discover new sofa sets and other furniture that will enhance your living space. Explore our full collection and find the perfect sofa for your home!