7 Tips on How to Clean a Fabric Couch
Fabric couches are cozy, comfy, and a key part of your living room. But they’re also magnets for spills, dirt, and, if you have a dog, those delightful little “presents” in the form of stains and smells.
Whether it’s a coffee spill, a mystery stain, or that wet-dog scent that’s taken over your couch, these seven cleaning tips will help bring your fabric sofa back to life.
Ready to make that couch fresh and stain-free again? Let’s get started!
1. Vacuum Thoroughly Before Anything Else
First things first—vacuum your couch. Before you start scrubbing or applying any cleaning solutions, you need to remove all the loose dirt, crumbs, and pet hair lurking between the cushions.

This step is crucial because if you skip it, you’ll just end up rubbing dirt deeper into the fabric once you start cleaning.
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Join The Club Today! 🐾Use your vacuum’s upholstery attachment and get into every nook and cranny. Don’t forget the seams and under the cushions! If you’ve got a dog, chances are you’ll find enough fur to make another small pet hiding there.
Pro Tip: For stubborn pet hair, use a lint roller or even a slightly damp rubber glove. The glove helps to pick up hair that the vacuum might miss.
2. Check the Manufacturer’s Cleaning Tag

Ever noticed those cryptic cleaning tags on your couch? Don’t ignore them! They’re there for a reason. Every fabric couch has different cleaning needs, so you want to follow the manufacturer’s instructions to avoid damaging the material. The cleaning code is usually found on the tag under the cushions or along the side.
Here’s what those cleaning codes mean:
- W: Water-based cleaners are safe to use.
- S: Solvent-based cleaners only—no water!
- WS: Water or solvent cleaners are okay.
- X: Vacuum only—don’t even think about scrubbing or using water!
Checking the tag will save you from an unfortunate disaster like ruining the fabric or leaving behind watermarks.
3. Create a Simple DIY Cleaning Solution

For most fabric couches, you don’t need anything fancy—just a basic cleaning solution can do wonders. If your couch tag says water-based cleaners are safe (W or WS), here’s a quick DIY solution you can whip up at home:
- 2 cups of warm water
- 1 tablespoon of dish soap
- 1 tablespoon of white vinegar
This combination helps to lift stains and deodorize the fabric. Vinegar is especially good for neutralizing smells (like that lovely dog odor that seems to linger forever).
Gently dab the solution onto the stained area using a clean cloth. Don’t scrub—just blot the area to lift the stain. Scrubbing can push the stain deeper into the fabric, making things worse.
4. Blot Stains Immediately (Especially Dog Messes)
Whether it’s a spilled glass of wine or a dog-related mess, the faster you tackle the stain, the better.

Blot—don’t rub—the stain with a clean cloth or paper towel as soon as you notice it. If it’s a liquid spill, blot until you’ve soaked up as much of the liquid as possible.
For pet stains, start by removing any solids (you know what I mean), and then blot the area dry. Once that’s done, apply your cleaning solution to the stain and blot again. The key here is patience—let the cleaner do its work, and keep blotting until the stain starts to lift.
Dog stains and smells are especially tricky because they can leave behind bacteria and odor that linger even after cleaning. For those accidents, an enzymatic cleaner (found in most pet stores) works wonders. These cleaners break down the proteins in dog urine, feces, and vomit, completely eliminating the smell rather than just masking it.
5. Deodorize with Baking Soda
Sometimes, the problem isn’t the stain itself but the smell. Dog odors can cling to fabric like nobody’s business.

Luckily, baking soda is your best friend when it comes to deodorizing your couch. Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda over the entire couch and let it sit for at least 20 minutes (but overnight works even better if the smell is strong).
Baking soda absorbs odors, so after letting it sit, vacuum it up thoroughly. Your couch should smell fresher, and any lingering dog smells will be significantly reduced.
Bonus Tip: You can also mix a few drops of essential oil into the baking soda before sprinkling it on for a light, fresh scent (lavender is always a good choice).
6. Steam Clean for a Deep Refresh
If your couch is safe for water-based cleaners (again, check that tag!), a steam cleaner can be a game-changer. Steam cleaning is perfect for giving your fabric couch a deep clean, removing dirt, stains, and even allergens that have settled into the fabric.
A steam cleaner uses hot water to break up grime, and most models also suck up the dirty water, leaving your couch cleaner than ever. Just be sure to let your couch dry completely before anyone sits on it—wet cushions aren’t anyone’s favorite.
Important: Steam cleaning works best for fabric couches, but always double-check your couch’s care instructions before using one!
7. Use Enzymatic Cleaners for Tough Dog Stains

Dealing with a dog stain that just won’t quit? Enter the hero of pet-related cleaning: enzymatic cleaners.
These are specially formulated to break down organic matter (like pet urine or poop) and eliminate odors at the source.
Spray the enzymatic cleaner on the affected area and let it sit for the recommended time (usually around 10-15 minutes). Then, blot the area with a clean cloth to remove the cleaner and the stain. These cleaners work wonders on both stains and smells, so they’re a must-have for any dog owner.
FAQs
Q: Can I use bleach or harsh chemicals to clean my fabric couch?
A: No! Avoid bleach or harsh chemicals on fabric couches, as they can damage the material and cause discoloration. Stick with gentle cleaners like mild soap, vinegar, or specific fabric cleaners.
Q: What should I do if the stain won’t come out?
A: If you’ve tried everything and the stain still won’t budge, it might be time to call in a professional upholstery cleaner. They have specialized tools and cleaning agents that can tackle stubborn stains without damaging your couch.
Q: How do I prevent my dog from making the couch smell?
A: Regular cleaning and deodorizing are key. You can also cover your couch with washable slipcovers or blankets that are easier to clean. Make sure your dog is clean and groomed regularly to prevent odors from building up in the first place.
Final Thoughts
Keeping a fabric couch clean can feel like an uphill battle, especially with a dog in the house. But with these seven tips, you’ll be able to tackle stains, smells, and dirt with confidence. From vacuuming regularly to using enzymatic cleaners for those tough pet stains, maintaining a clean, fresh couch isn’t as hard as it seems.
Whether it’s dog-related mishaps or everyday spills, your fabric couch can bounce back with the right care—and hopefully, you can enjoy a stain-free, odor-free seat while your dog naps somewhere else for a change.

I’ve spent 10+ years in dog training, digging into what makes dogs (and their humans) tick. At Smart Dog Learning, I share my no-nonsense, fun approach to training so you can enjoy life with a well-behaved, happy pup—no boring lectures, just practical results 😉