A smelly sofa can quickly disrupt the comfort and coziness of your living space.
Over time, sofas can accumulate odors from spills, pets, sweat, and general use, making it essential to address the issue promptly. Cleaning a smelly sofa doesn’t have to be a daunting task—with the right techniques and materials, you can restore freshness to your furniture and keep it smelling pleasant for longer.
This guide on how to clean smelly sofa will walk you through effective steps to tackle unpleasant odors and maintain your sofa in pristine condition.
Why Does My Sofa Smell?
Before diving into the cleaning process, it’s crucial to understand why your sofa might have a lingering smell. The following are some common reasons for a smelly sofa:
Spills and Stains:
Liquid spills and food residue can seep deep into the fabric of your sofa, causing unpleasant odors. If not promptly cleaned, these spills can also attract bacteria and mold, further worsening the smell.
Pet Odors:
Pets are a great addition to any household, but they can also contribute to a smelly sofa. The oils from their fur and paws can transfer onto your furniture, leaving behind an unpleasant scent. Additionally, pet accidents on the sofa can be difficult to completely eliminate without proper cleaning methods.
Sweat and Body Odor:
Sweat and body odor from regular use of the sofa can get trapped in the fabric over time, resulting in a persistent smell.
Cleaning Materials You Will Need
To effectively clean a smelly sofa, you will need the following materials:
- Vacuum Cleaner
- Baking Soda
- White Vinegar
- Dish Soap
- Water
- Spray Bottle
- Microfiber Cloth or Sponge
8 Step-by-step Guides on How to Clean Smelly Sofa
Step 1: Remove Any Visible Debris and Crumbs
Begin by thoroughly removing any visible debris, crumbs, or loose dirt from your sofa. Use a vacuum cleaner with an upholstery attachment to reach into the crevices, seams, and corners where dirt tends to accumulate.
Ensure you go over the entire surface of the sofa, including under the cushions, to clear out any particles that could contribute to odors. This initial step prepares the sofa for deeper cleaning by eliminating surface-level contaminants.
Step 2: Make a Baking Soda Paste
Baking soda is a natural deodorizer that can help absorb and neutralize unpleasant odors. To create a baking soda paste, mix equal parts baking soda and water in a bowl until a thick, spreadable consistency is achieved.
Once the paste is ready, gently apply it to any particularly smelly areas of the sofa, such as stains or spots where odors are concentrated. Allow the paste to sit for approximately 15-20 minutes to effectively break down odors before proceeding to the next step.
Step 3: Vacuum Up the Baking Soda Paste
Once the baking soda paste has had time to absorb the odors, use your vacuum cleaner to remove it from the sofa. Attach the upholstery or brush attachment to ensure thorough cleaning without damaging the fabric.
Gently vacuum over the treated areas, making sure to remove all traces of the baking soda paste. This step not only gets rid of the baking soda but also extracts any loosened dirt or odor-causing particles, leaving the surface ready for further cleaning or deodorizing.
Step 4: Make a Vinegar Solution
White vinegar is an effective natural cleaner and deodorizer that can help break down odors and sanitize your sofa. To make the solution, mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. For added cleaning power, you can add a small amount of dish soap to the mixture—just a few drops will suffice.
Shake the bottle gently to combine the ingredients thoroughly.
Once the vinegar solution is prepared, test it on an inconspicuous area of your sofa to ensure it doesn’t damage the fabric or cause discoloration. If the test area remains unaffected, you are ready to proceed with applying the solution to odor-prone spots.
Step 5: Spray the Vinegar Solution
Spray the vinegar solution onto any areas of the sofa that have lingering odors. Use a clean microfiber cloth or sponge to gently rub and dab the solution into the fabric, making sure not to saturate it.
The vinegar will help neutralize and break down any remaining odors while also disinfecting the surface of your sofa. It may have a strong smell initially, but this will dissipate once it dries completely.
You can repeat this step multiple times for particularly stubborn smells, but avoid over-spraying as it can make the fabric too damp and cause mildew growth.
Step 6: Dry Thoroughly
After applying the vinegar solution, allow your sofa to air-dry completely. Turn on fans or open windows to speed up the drying process.
It’s essential to ensure that your sofa is fully dry before using it again, as a damp surface can lead to musty odors and mold growth.
Step 7: Use an Odor Eliminator Spray
For added freshness and to tackle any remaining odors, use a fabric-safe odor eliminator spray. Choose a spray specifically designed for upholstery to avoid damage to your sofa’s material. Lightly mist the entire surface of the sofa, focusing on areas where odors were most prominent.
Allow the spray to sit for a few minutes and work its magic, breaking down any stubborn smells that are still present. Ensure the sofa is left to air out after application, as this will help the spray set in and the fragrance neutralize lingering odors. This step adds a finishing touch to the cleaning process, leaving your sofa smelling clean and fresh.
Step 8: Wash Removable Covers (If Applicable)
If your sofa has removable covers, it’s essential to wash them separately, following the manufacturer’s instructions. This step is especially crucial if the covers have absorbed odors and are contributing to the overall smell of your sofa.
Use a gentle detergent and cold water to avoid damaging the fabric, and air-dry them completely before putting them back on your now-clean and fresh-smelling sofa.
Following these eight steps on how to clean smelly sofa will help eliminate odors and freshen up your sofa, making it a pleasant place to sit and relax once again. Regular cleaning and maintenance can also prevent odors from building up in the future, keeping your sofa smelling clean and fresh for longer. So, take care of your sofa regularly to avoid any unpleasant smells! Happy cleaning!
Do You Need to Use Professionals?
While the steps outlined above are highly effective for most common sofa odors, there are situations where professional cleaning services may be necessary. If your sofa has deeply embedded odors, extensive staining, or is made of delicate materials such as silk or leather, it’s best to consult a professional upholstery cleaner. Professionals have access to specialized equipment, industrial-strength cleaning solutions, and the expertise to handle more challenging cleaning situations without damaging your sofa.
Additionally, if your sofa’s odor stems from issues such as mold, heavy pet accidents, or smoke, professional cleaners can address these persistent smells with advanced techniques. Hiring a professional may also save you time and give you peace of mind, knowing the job is done thoroughly. Ultimately, the need for professional help depends on the severity of the odor and the type of sofa you own.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: How Often Should I Clean My Sofa to Prevent Odors?
A: It is recommended to clean your sofa at least once every 3-6 months to prevent the buildup of dirt and odors. However, if you have pets or frequently eat on your sofa, more frequent cleaning may be necessary.
Q2: Can I Use Other Cleaning Solutions Instead of Baking Soda and Vinegar?
A: While baking soda and vinegar are natural cleaning solutions that work well for removing odors, you can also use commercially available upholstery cleaners. Just make sure to test them on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure they won’t damage your sofa’s fabric.
Q3: How Long Will It Take for the Vinegar Smell to Go Away?
A: The strong smell of vinegar may linger for a few hours after cleaning, but it will dissipate once the sofa is fully dry. To speed up this process, you can open windows or use fans to help circulate air and remove the vinegar smell more quickly.
Q4: Can I Use a Steam Cleaner to Remove Odors from My Sofa?
A: Yes, you can use a steam cleaner on your sofa to help remove odors. Just make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and use caution when using heat on delicate fabrics. Additionally, be sure to allow ample time for your sofa to dry after steaming it.
Conclusion
By following these eight simple steps on how to clean smelly sofa, you can effectively clean and deodorize your smelly sofa without having to purchase expensive cleaning products or hire professional services.
It’s important to regularly maintain and clean your sofa to prevent unpleasant odors from accumulating and to keep it looking and smelling fresh for years to come.