How to Keep Your Sofa Clean: Stain Removal and Care Tips
We’ve all been there. The kids are enjoying a bar of chocolate, or you’re relaxing with a glass of wine on your brand-new sofa, when suddenly an accident happens. A spill or stain can be frustrating, but it doesn’t have to mean the end of your sofa. Acting quickly and using the right cleaning method can help prevent permanent damage and keep your sofa looking its best.
Whether you have a fabric or leather sofa, follow our simple care tips below.
How to Clean a Fabric Sofa
Fabric sofas can be more susceptible to stains because the material is made from individual fibres that can absorb liquids and oils. Once a spill dries, it can become much harder to remove.
We offer a range of hardwearing, stain-resistant fabrics, including our lifestyle and pet-friendly options. However, we always recommend treating spills as soon as possible to help prevent lasting marks.
Our fabric care kit is the easiest way to care for your sofa. It contains the products we recommend for tackling stains and helping to keep your fabric looking fresh and well maintained.
How to Clean a Leather Sofa
If you spill something on your leather sofa, acting quickly is essential. Whatever type of upholstery you have, start by gently blotting up the excess liquid with a clean, dry cloth. Once the excess has been removed, use a damp cloth to gently blot the affected area and loosen the stain.
Our Trusty and Relaxed leathers have a protective finish, making them more resistant to staining. Character leather does not have the same protective layer, so it can be more susceptible to marks and stains. Whichever leather you own, treating spills promptly can help prevent them from becoming permanent.
We offer two specialist leather care kits:
- Standard leather care kit – designed for Trusty and Relaxed leather.
- Brushed Aniline care kit – specially formulated for Character and Character Vintage leather.
Each kit includes detailed instructions explaining how to use the products safely and effectively. You shouldn’t need any additional specialist equipment, and we recommend using only the specially formulated care products provided for your Sofology sofa.
How to Use Your Care Kit
Follow these simple steps when treating a spill or stain:
- Act quickly. Blot the spill with a clean, dry, colourfast cloth to absorb as much of it as possible.
- Blot the stain. Once the excess has been removed, dampen a clean, colourfast cloth and gently blot the affected area. Avoid rubbing, as this can spread the stain and potentially damage the upholstery.
- Apply your cleaner. Use a generous amount of the appropriate fabric or leather cleaner from your care kit. With a clean, dry cloth, gently dab the area until the stain has been removed and the surface is dry.
- Finish the clean. Once the stain has gone, vacuum away any remaining particles. Then, using a damp cloth, gently wipe the affected area from seam to seam.
I Don’t Have a Care Kit – How Can I Clean a Stain?
If you don’t have a care kit to hand, you can use warm, soapy water to help treat a stain. Dampen a clean, colourfast cloth with the solution and gently blot the affected area until the stain has been removed.
Once you’ve finished, wipe the area carefully to help prevent water marks. Use a fresh, damp, colourfast cloth and gently wipe the entire panel from seam to seam.
Regular Sofa Maintenance
Regular maintenance is one of the best ways to keep your sofa looking and feeling great throughout the year. We recommend giving your sofa some attention every week, with a few simple habits that can make a big difference.
Where possible, plump your cushions daily, particularly seat and back cushions that get frequent use. This helps restore air to the fillings, keeping your cushions feeling comfortable, full and supportive.
It’s also a good idea to vacuum around and underneath your cushions once a week, where possible. This helps remove crumbs, dirt and debris before they can build up and potentially affect your fabric or leather.
Every six months, we recommend using your care kit to freshen up your sofa as needed. If you have a brushed aniline care kit, it also contains specialist protective oils that help preserve the natural character of the leather and protect it against everyday wear and tear. Always apply these products according to the care kit instructions.
We’re Always Here to Help
With quick action and regular care, most everyday spills and stains can be treated before they cause lasting damage. Following these simple maintenance tips can also help keep your sofa looking great, feeling comfortable and lasting for longer.
If you’re having trouble using your care kit or need advice about a particularly stubborn stain, contact us and our team will be happy to help.
