I can understand your couch is more than just a piece of furniture—it’s a place where you have made many memories with your family, friends, pets, and favorite cup of coffee. However, if your loved couch has developed an unpleasant odor, I can help you deal with it.
Whether it’s due to simple everyday use, pet accidents, or spilled drinks, a smelly couch can quickly become a source of discomfort. As every problem comes with a solution, the issue of a smelly couch (due to peed) can also be resolved by following a set of few simple steps.
However, different couches come with different sofa upholstery material types like leather, fabric, microfiber, and so on. Removing smells from each needs different supplies and steps to follow. Don’t worry! I have covered all these types. Be with me as I’ll teach you everything.
Key Takeaways
[su_note note_color=”#fff3ad”]
- Always check the upholstery tag code, W, S, S-W, or X, which is mostly given under the cushions, to determine the suitable cleaning method.
- For fabric upholstery, identify the odor source, vacuum thoroughly, spot-clean stains, sprinkle baking soda, and use a fabric refresher spray.
- For leather upholstery, air it out, apply baking soda, use a vinegar and water solution, and combat musty smells with rubbing alcohol.
- For microfiber upholstery, vacuum, sprinkle baking soda, use a vinegar and water cleaning solution, and ensure complete drying before use.[/su_note]
Begin With Checking The Upholstery Tag Code.
All the couches come with an upholstery tag code that helps determine the suitable cleaning method for the particular fabric. Look for cleaning codes on the label (W, S, S-W, X) to determine suitable cleaning methods.
- “W” – Use water-based cleaners.
- “S” – Use solvent-based cleaners.
- “S-W” – Use either water-based or solvent-based cleaners.
- “X” – Only vacuum or seek professional cleaning services.
[su_note note_color=”#f8d3d2″]NOTE: To find an upholstery tag, take a look under the cushions of your couch. This little tag holds important information about how to properly care for and clean the furniture. [/su_note]
Moreover, it provides specific instructions and guidelines on the best methods to maintain and clean that particular piece of furniture.
How To Clean A Couch That Smells? [Fabric]
Suppose your couch has a fabric upholstery, and it’s emitting an unusual smell. In such a case, the following is the guide to eliminating the smell coming from the fabric upholstery.
[su_note note_color=”#f8d3d2″]NOTE: See the next section if your couch has specifically microfiber fabric upholstery. Microfiber is delicate, and it can be damaged easily. It requires special attention when dealing with it. See the next section for more details.[/su_note]
1. Identify The Source Of The Odor From The Couch.
A couch smelling because of spilled food or drink needs you to focus on cleaning the specific stained area. Identify the area where the odor is originating from.
Observing smell emitting means you can focus on that particular spot. But if the odor seems to be coming from the whole couch, you’ll need to clean the entire thing.
2. Vacuum The Couch Properly With Upholstery Attached.
Use the vacuum cleaner with an upholstery attachment to vacuum and remove any dust, dirt, or debris that might be causing the smell. Ensure to reach into all the corners and crevices.
3. Spot-Clean Any Visible Stains Using Gentle Cleaning Solution.
If there are any visible stains on the couch, use a gentle cleaning solution and a clean cloth to blot them out. DO NOT scrub too hard, as this can harm the fabric.
4. Sprinkle Baking Soda On The Couch And Let It Sit.
Baking soda is a natural deodorizer that can help eliminate any lingering odors. Simply sprinkle a liberal amount of baking soda over the entire couch. Allow the baking soda to be on the spot for at least 30 minutes (or longer, if possible).
5. Vacuum Up The Baking Soda In The End.
Once the baking soda has worked its magic, remove your vacuum’s upholstery attachment from the couch, reaching into all the crannies and nooks.
6. Try Some Activated Charcoal Is Smell Remains (Optional).
Suppose the odor is still on the couch even after utilizing the baking soda. In such a scenario, you should use some activated charcoal. Activated charcoal effectively eliminates odors from fabric couches.
Pour a layer of it onto the affected location, let it sit for a few hours, and then vacuum it up. You can also place small activated charcoal sachets near the couch to continuously absorb odors.
7. Use A Fabric Refresher Spray In The End.
You can get help from a fabric refresher spray to provide your couch an extra boost of freshness. Choose one that’s specifically designed for upholstery, and follow the instructions on the label.
How To Clean A Leather Couch That Smells?
If you have a leather couch, I think I know the reason. Leather couches are a popular choice due to their timeless elegance and durability, offering a luxurious and long-lasting seating option for any home or space.
Another good news is they are easy-to-clean types of couches that don’t need much cleanliness. However, if the smell is gripping your nose, this is how you can clean a leather couch that smells.
1. Take Your Couch Outside For A Fresh Air Revival.
First of all, take your leather furniture outside on a sunny and non-humid day to let it air out. Remove any removable cushions and prop them up vertically to maximize air exposure.
If outdoor airing isn’t possible, place the couch in a well-ventilated room with ample daylight and a ceiling fan. Ensure that you provide your leather couch with the maximum exposure.
2. Don’t Leave Without Seeing Baking Soda Magic.
If the odor still persists, sprinkle baking soda generously all over your leather couch, including the armrests, back, cushions, and underneath the cushions (if removable). Leave it on for an hour or two, then vacuum it away.
To fix non-removable cushions, stuff newspaper in the middle of them or into visible crevices, pour baking soda on the paper, and allow it to be on the spot for a few hours. The baking soda and newspaper work together to eliminate odors.
3. Use Vinegar And Water Solution For Ultimate Victory.
Create a mixture of equal parts water and white vinegar. Spritz this solution onto all leather areas, including cushions. Let the solution air dry for about 10 minutes in a well-ventilated and dry space.
Wipe away the vinegar residue. Ensure to spray the reverse side of the removable cushions and the area beneath them. Keep redoing the process if any lingering smells remain.
4. Must Combat With The Musty Or Moldy Smell.
If your sofa has a musty or moldy smell with visible spots even after doing so much, it may have been stored in damp conditions. In such a case, you should use rubbing alcohol for the final combat.
Use rubbing alcohol on a lint-free cloth or cotton ball to wipe away the spots. Afterward, let the couch air out thoroughly in a dry area. This should eliminate the odor along with the mold or mildew.
How To Clean A Microfiber Couch That Smells?
Suppose your couch is made of stain-resistant and delicate upholstery fabric, microfiber. In such a case, you must take a few extra precautions to deal with its smell. I have made things easier for you. Follow these steps to clean it.
1. Start With Properly Vacuuming Your Beloved Couch.
The first step you should take is to vacuum the entire couch to remove any loose dirt and debris. Doing this will make it easier to clean the areas where the odor originates.
2. Sprinkle Some Baking Soda On The Concerned Area.
Put baking soda onto the affected areas of the couch. Let it be there for a few hours or overnight, and then vacuum it up. Baking soda absorbs odors, so this should help eliminate the smell.
3. Use A Cleaning Solution Of White Vinegar And Water.
You can use a cleaning agent if the baking soda doesn’t work. Mix equal volumes of water and white vinegar together in a spray bottle for easy spraying.
[su_note note_color=”#dcf8d2″]Tips: Don’t forget to see the care label on your couch before applying the cleaning solutions. Also, do a spot test in an invisible area on your couch first to see any harm or discoloration.[/su_note]
Once the cleaning solution passes the spot test, spray the remedy onto the couch’s affected areas and then gently scrub the fabric with a soft-bristled brush.
4. Let The Couch Dry Properly Before Using It Again.
Once done with cleaning the couch, let it air dry properly prior to using it again. Use a fan or open windows to speed up the drying process if you can.
FAQs
What Are Some Common Causes Of Couch Odors?
Common causes of couch odors include pet dander, food and drink spills, sweat and body oils, smoking, moisture and humidity, and lack of regular cleaning.
How Often Should I Clean My Couch?
Cleaning your couch is advised at least once every few months or more regularly if there are certain stains or smells. However, I always suggest immediately cleaning any spills other than regular cleaning.
Can I Use Water To Clean My Couch?
You can use water to clean your couch if it has a “W” or “W-S” upholstery code on the tag provided, typically underneath the cushions. However, even if you can use water or a cleaning solution made of water, don’t wet the couch excessively.
Can I Use Bleach To Remove Odors From My Couch?
Most couches shouldn’t be cleaned with bleach because it could harm the fabric or upholstery. It’s preferable to use gentle cleaning agents or all-natural deodorizers like vinegar or baking soda.
Conclusion
Keeping a clean and odor-free couch is essential for a hygienic and comfortable living space. There are efficient ways to eliminate bad odors on every kind of couch, including general fabric, microfiber, and leather.
However, it’s crucial to thoroughly vacuum the couch, use baking soda to absorb odors, and use the right cleaning products. Also, preventative efforts like consistent cleaning and fast stain removal help stop scents from persisting.
You can make sure your couch has a fresh scent, improves comfort, and lasts longer by adhering to the methods and recommendations I have provided and taking into account specifically given care instructions.
