How to Clean Couch Cushions for Beautiful, Refreshed Upholstery Year-Round

A couch is one of the most important pieces of furniture in the home. It's central to the living room, and its placement is integral to a seamless layout. Not only that, but couches are a primary gathering space, where friends and family will sit down, kick back, and exchange stories over coffee (or cocktails).

Since this furnishing gets so much regular use, it's natural for it to get dirty or even stained. Depending on the type of couch you have, though, it can be hard to know where to begin when it comes to cleaning individual cushions. The truth is there's no one-size-fits-all approach to cleaning couch cushions—but there are a few essential expert tips and tricks you should know before you get started.

Check Your Instructions

No two couches are the same—unless your friend bought the exact same model from the exact same brand. Either way, before you start cleaning, you'll want to check the care instructions on the individual cushion. This should be located on a white tag, typically tucked away in a more discreet spot. "Look for cleaning codes such as W for water-based cleaners, S for solvent-based cleaners, WS for either water or solvent-based cleaners, or X for vacuum only," says Val Olivera, CEO and founder of Val's Cleaning Services.

Secondly, determine whether or not the couch cushion cover is removable. If it is, your cleaning process will likely be much easier. Follow the care instructions, wash the cover in cold water on a delicate cycle, and then let it air dry—the latter is especially important, as driers and heat can cause covers to shrink.

Know When to Clean

So, how often should you clean your couch cushions? We use these pieces of furniture almost every day, so they certainly pick up a good amount of dirt, dust, and debris. "If your couch cushions are used daily, we recommend cleaning them about once a week," says Marla Mock, president of Molly Maid. "If they aren’t used often and are more for looks, then cleaning them every three to four weeks should do the trick."

The exception, of course, is if something leaves a stain—then the cushion should be cleaned immediately to prevent lasting damage.

Cleaning Fabric Cushions

Fabric couches can be easier to clean than other materials, but they still require a specialized approach—and a DIY cleaner.

Step 1: Brush It Down

Before you go in with a cleaner, make sure to remove any loose debris that may have accumulated on the cushions. Mock recommends brushing the fabric down with a clean white hand towel or a stiff brush. You can also use a vacuum for bigger messes.

Step 2: Make a Cleaning Solution

Making your own cleaning liquid is easy, and requires just a few simple materials. Combine 1 teaspoon of dishwashing liquid with 1 tablespoon of white vinegar, and a cup of warm water in a spray bottle. Next, add 1 teaspoon of baking soda to the mix—but make sure to quickly screw the top back onto the bottle. "The baking soda will create a lot of bubbles when combined!" says Mock.

Step 3: Clean and Dry

Spray the mixture onto a white cloth and wipe down the cushion. After you're done, let it air dry.

Cleaning Leather Cushions

Leather couches may seem harder to clean, but in reality it takes just a few extra steps to make them really shine.

Step 1: Vacuum

Vacuuming can help you really get into the nooks and crannies of a couch cushion, which is especially important for all of leather's natural folds and ridges. This will ensure crumbs and other pieces of debris don't linger. After, you can wipe the couch down with a microfiber cloth.

Step 2: Make a Cleaning Solution

Your solution for a leather couch should be made with equal parts water and white vinegar. You can mix it together in a bucket, dip a microfiber cloth in the liquid, and then wipe down the cushions. Make sure the cloth is damp, but not wet.

Step 3: Condition

Leather needs a bit of extra care. One great way to ensure it stays shining is leather conditioner, which creates a seal that protects the material from oil and water spills. Mock recommends applying this to your cushions every six to 12 months—it will also help keep the material feeling soft and supple.

Cleaning Microfiber Cushions

Microfiber is typically comprised of a blend of polyester and nylon, so it needs a different treatment than your typical fabric cushion. Thankfully, cleaning these cushions is still a relatively straightforward process.

Step 1: Vacuum

Like most couch cushions, it's a good idea to vacuum your microfiber set before you start scrubbing. Ideally your vacuum will have an upholstery attachment to really get into the nooks and crannies.

Step 2: Scrub With Rubbing Alcohol

You'll likely have some of this at home already, and it's what experts recommend for microfiber. Spray the cushion with the alcohol, then scrub it with a white or light sponge—the latter is especially important, as a colorful sponge may cause the vibrant hue to transfer onto the couch. Brush in circles.

Step 3: Brush the Cushion

After you're done, let the cushion air dry, then go back in with a dry brush, brushing in circles. This will help fluff the fabric and restore its texture.

Treating Stains

Accidents happen, and if you need to spot-treat a stain, you can (and should) do so quickly and easily. First, it's important to take into consideration what type of stain you're dealing with—whether it's food-related, a wine spill, or something else entirely. Next, follow the care instructions on your cushion and use a cleaning solution in line with that brief. Olivera recommends a DIY solution of mild dish soap and water. When applying, make sure to use a damp cloth and blot—don't rub.

Eliminating Odors

Whether it's a pet-related accident or just food detritus, you may find your couch cushions smelling less than favorable as time passes. Luckily, there's an easy solution. Both Mock and Olivera recommend sprinkling baking soda on the cushions, and letting it sit—Mock recommends for a few hours in the sun. This will help absorb moisture and lingering smells. After, use a vacuum to ensure all of the baking soda is gone.

Mistakes to Avoid

More than anything, Olivera emphasizes not using too much water when cleaning couch cushions, as excess moisture can lead to mold growth and fabric damage. Avoid using harsh chemicals, and always follow the listed care instructions first and foremost. If you're using a new cleaning solution, make sure to spot test it first before applying it to the larger cushion.