The Best Way to Remove Stains from Couch Cushion Covers

If furniture were people, our couch would be our best friend. We all know how much life happens on our couches. Our beloved couch cushions see everything from movie marathons, mid-day naps, break-down episodes, and snack sessions to surprise spills and muddy paws. And over time, those cushion covers can take a hit. Keeping your couch cushions clean is key to maintaining a fresh, cozy, and inviting home. 

When it comes to cleaning, there may be too many tips and tricks offered on social media but there is no guarantee that it’ll work. In this blog, we share practical tips to help you clean your couch cushion covers like a pro. No stress. No guesswork. Just simple tips to bring your couch back to its spotless best. Let’s dive in!

Understanding Your Couch Fabric: The First Step to Effective Cleaning

Let’s say you are enjoying your morning coffee on the couch (as one does), and — oops! a little bump, and suddenly you’ve got coffee all over your couch cushion.

First things first, don’t panic! 

Check the Care Tag

Before you grab just any cleaner, check the fabric type and care tag. Understanding your couch cushion material is the key to avoiding damage and getting the best results. Using the wrong method could lead to faded colors, stretched fabric, or a cleaning disaster you don’t want. 

Care tags cleaning codes you can refer to:

O: Only use cold water and biodegradable detergent or eco-friendly soap. Alternatively, dry clean.

W: Only use distilled water (tap water could leave mineral deposits) and/or water-based cleaning products.

S: Only use water-free solvents or dry cleaning products.

SW: Can use water-based cleaning products and/or water-free solvents.

X: Vacuum or lightly brush. Never wet or use water-based cleaning agents or water-free solvents. 

Fabric Types and Cleaning Methods

Next, match your cleaning method to the fabric type. Cotton and polyester can handle mild detergents and water, while fancier fabrics like silk, wool, and linen require a gentler touch, like hand washing with specialized products.

Performing a Spot Test

Here’s a key step you shouldn’t skip – always perform a spot test. A quick spot test may save you from turning a small stain into a big disaster. Take a mild cleaning solution and try it on a small, hidden area of the cushion like the underside or back. See if your cleaning method stains or damages the fabric. If it doesn’t, you are good to go ahead. If it does, we suggest you call for professional help.

Can You Wash Couch Cushion Covers? 

The answer to the above question is YES! But with conditions. Some tips to consider:

1. Machine washable: If the care tag says “machine washable,” your cushion cover must be made of cotton, polyester, or other durable blends. They can usually handle a gentle cycle in cold water with a mild detergent. Just remember to zip up the covers, turn them inside out, and skip the dryer. Air drying is the way to go to avoid shrinking or warping.

2. Spot clean only: If the instructions say “hand wash” or “spot clean only,” proceed with caution. Delicate materials like silk, velvet, or wool aren’t built for the rough-and-tumble of a washing machine. Stick to gentle hand washing with mild soap and water, focusing only on the stained areas. If you’re dealing with something particularly fragile or a tricky stain, it might be worth calling in for a professional clean.

Always let the care tag guide you. It’s there for a reason, and following it will keep your cushion covers looking as good as new for much longer.

Pre-Treatment Steps: Tackling Stains Before You Wash

The first rule of treating couch stains is not letting the couch stain! What we mean is that if you act quickly enough, there is less chance of stubborn staining. This is how to react to stains if you are the first responder in a couch spill situation.

Food and Beverage Stains

If you spill coffee, juice, or sauce: 

1. Start by blotting up as much as you can with a clean cloth or kitchen tissues. 

2. Mix a bit of mild detergent with water, or whip up a baking soda paste.

3. Apply it to the stain and let it sit for 10-15 minutes.

4. Then blot again. 

It’s a simple trick that works wonders.

Oil-Based Stains

If you spill something like salad dressing, makeup, or grease which is thicker, dish soap (like the one from Seventh Generation) may be your secret weapon. Here is what to do:

1. Dab a few drops onto the stain.

2. Let it sit for a bit, then blot with warm water.

3. Sprinkle a little cornstarch over it to absorb the grease before washing.

Ink or Dye Stains

You have to be as quick as the Flash for this one.

1. Dab rubbing alcohol on a clean cloth (preferably white)

2. Gently blot on the area of ink or dye stains.

3. Don’t make the mistake of scrubbing the cushion. You might end up spreading the stain even more.

Pet Stains

Some say, if you have pets, stop dreaming about perfect furniture. But, they’ve got it wrong. You just need to know what we know. To keep your couch odor and stain-free, enzymatic cleaners are your go-to. They prevent discoloration and odors. However, for deep-soaked stains, you might need to call the professionals.

How to Wash Couch Cushion Covers Safely

 Washing your couch cushion covers doesn’t have to be stressful. Here is what we suggest you do: 

Preparation

Carefully remove the covers from the cushions. Take your time, be gentle. Yanking them off can stretch the fabric or damage the zippers. Once they’re off, zip them up fully to prevent fraying and snagging during the wash.

Machine Washing Tips

If the care label says machine washing is safe, you’re in luck! Use a gentle cycle with cold water and a mild detergent. Cold water helps prevent shrinking and keeps colors looking fresh. To protect the fabric further, turn the covers inside out before washing. And whatever you do, skip bleach, it will only make the stain worse.

Handwashing Techniques

For more delicate covers labeled “hand washes only’” fill a basin or sink with lukewarm water and a small amount of mild detergent. Softly scrub any stained areas. Let them soak for 10-15 minutes, then rinse thoroughly to remove all the soap. 

Drying Tips

Air drying is the best. Lay the covers flat on a clean towel or hang them up to dry naturally. Avoid direct sunlight to prevent fading. If machine drying is allowed, stick to a low-heat setting to avoid shrinking.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cleaning Couch Cushion Covers

Let’s talk about what not to do to avoid couch-cleaning disasters.

Skip the harsh chemicals and bleach

While they may seem like a quick fix for tough stains, they can fade colors, weaken fabrics, and leave ugly splotches behind. Oh, and they are very toxic to you and your pets! Stick to mild detergents or gentle cleaning solutions to keep your covers looking fresh and damage-free. We like the Branch Basics range.

Don’t overload the washing machine

It’s tempting to throw all the covers in at once to save time, but cramming too much in can stretch zippers and wrinkle fabric. Give the covers room to move, and always use a gentle cycle with cold water. 

Skipping the spot test

Another rookie mistake. In a hurry to get your couch cleaned, don’t forget to spot test. Test your cleaning solution on a hidden corner of the fabric first. The last thing you want is to turn a small stain into an even bigger problem with discoloration or damage.

Failing to clean inner cushions

Even if the outer cover is spotless, it doesn’t mean the inner cushion is automatically clean. Give the inner cushions a quick vacuum to freshen them up. For deeper cleaning, consider professional services to keep them fresh and fluffy.

When Professional Cleaning is the Better Choice

Sometimes, no matter how hard you try, DIY cleaning just doesn’t cut it and that’s okay! Whether it’s a stubborn stain that won’t budge, delicate fabrics you’re nervous about, or a couch that’s seen better days, Vella is here to help you out. We do very detailed vacuum work on upholstery, rugs, and carpets. While we don’t offer shampooing services or upholstery cleaning, we are happy to refer you to someone we trust. So what are you waiting for? Stop worrying about those stained cushion covers and book a service with us today!