Unveiling the dirty truth: it’s time to clean your sofa

If you had to name the dirtiest place in your home, where would you say? The kitchen? The bathroom? These areas of the home are top of the list, but they tend to be diligently cleaned because they are famed as harbourers of bacteria, germs and allergens. However, one place that is often overlooked is upholstered furniture which surprisingly, if left untreated, is equally as likely to cause health problems.

Unclean upholstery is a breeding ground for allergy triggers such as dust mites, pollen, and moulds, which cause respiratory issues and allergic reactions in humans and pets. Cleaning upholstery removes these hazardous microbes, creating a healthier indoor environment for your family. While professional upholstery cleaning services deliver the best visual and hygiene results, you can clean your upholstered furniture between professional cleanings.

7 Steps to clean a fabric couch and chairs

Always check the manufacturer’s instructions and the fabric care codes before undertaking any upholstery cleaning. It’s crucial the recommended cleaning methods are followed for the specific fabric. Fabric care codes include:

·        W for water-based cleaning

·        S for solvent based cleaning

·        WS for water or solvent-based cleaning

·        X denotes professional upholstery cleaning only.

Note: the steps below should only be followed for upholstery displaying W or WS fabric care codes.

1. If possible, remove the cushion covers.
2. Wash cushion covers on a cold/gentle cycle or handwash (always check manufacturer’s instructions).
3. Paying attention to every nook and crevice and using the attachments, thoroughly vacuum the entire couch.
4. Sprinkle bicarb over the sofa and leave for half an hour before vacuuming the residue. For stubborn stains and grubby ‘high traffic’ areas such as the arms or where the dog sits, you can make a bicarb paste. The bicarb’s mild abrasive nature helps lift stains but also neutralises odours.
5. Make a DIY sofa cleaning solution by mixing equal parts of white vinegar and water.
6. Spritz the upholstery until it is damp taking care not to oversoak or drench.
7. Using a dry, lint-free cloth, wipe the soiled sofa fabric surface and allow to air dry



It’s important to clean all areas of the sofa at the same time to maintain the consistency of colour and texture. If you are unsure how best to clean the fabric, do not second guess, it’s time to call in the professionals – affordable upholstery cleaning in Christchurch is always going to be cheaper than a new couch!

What are the benefits of having your upholstery and sofa professionally cleaned?

No need to do it yourself: you don't have to worry about handling the cleaning yourself, saving you time and effort while knowing your sofa is being thoroughly cleaned to a gold standard and with minimum to disruption.

Specialist equipment and techniques: Professional technicians use the latest equipment and cleaning techniques to achieve the best results so your upholstery is restored.

Visual refresh: the cleaning process not only makes the upholstery clean and hygienic, but it revitalises the fibre structure and colour of the fabric.

Extended lifespan: removing engrained dirt and spills prevents the premature wear and tear of your furniture.

Improved indoor air quality: the elimination of impurities like moulds, mites, and mildew and other allergy triggers improves the air quality.

Comfortable living environment: relaxation and peace of mind is more easily obtained when your home is a comfortable living environment for you and your family.

If you're in need of professional upholstery cleaning services in CHCH, New Zealand, call Christchurch Carpet Cleaning on 021 638 637 to schedule an appointment. It’s a good idea to clean your carpets at the same time so you can experience the difference a complete deep clean can make to your home.