Couch Cleaning 101: How Often You Really Need to Do it
Buying a couch isn’t just a purchase—it’s a journey.
You search. You sit. You second-guess. You measure the doorframe (twice). Then, finally, you find the one. It’s comfy, stylish and miraculously in budget.
Naturally, you want to keep it looking as good as the day you got it. But then come the pets. The kids. The popcorn. The red wine. Life happens—and your couch takes the hit.
Here’s the good news: this isn’t the end for you and your couch. It just means it’s time for a professional refresh.
So... how often should that be? Let’s break it down.
How Often Should You Clean Your Upholstery?
Our short answer is every year. If not twice a year.
The longer answer depends on how you live. Here’s what to factor in.
Heavy use? You’re due for more frequent care.
Pets? Every 6 months is your new mantra. Fur, dander, spots—it all adds up fast.
Kids? Same story. Active kiddos mean more spills, more crumbs and more wear.
Sensitive fabric? You might need a gentler, more frequent schedule.
Basically, if your couch is a hub for lounging, snacking or napping (aka: being lived on), it’s probably overdue for a reset.
How to Keep Upholstery Looking Good Between Cleanings
You spend a lot of time on your couch and around your dinner table. These quick habits help them stay clean through the chaos.
Vacuum weekly (yes, really)
Your vacuum isn’t just for floors. Use a soft brush attachment to lift away crumbs, dust and pet hair before they settle in for good.Flip and rotate your cushions
This evens out wear and keeps your couch from developing a permanent "favorite spot" dip.Shade the sun
Direct sunlight fades fabric over time. If your couch or chairs are in a sunny spot, use blinds or curtains to keep them shaded during peak hoursClean up spills immediately
Blot—don’t rub—liquids with a clean cloth. Then reach for a gentle upholstery cleaner (like our Stanley Steemer Spot Remover) for leftover residue. For funky smells? Try our Odor Out! Plus. It breaks down the bacteria that cause odors, instead of just covering them up.Snack smarter
Couch snacks aren’t going anywhere, but a tray can go a long way in keeping spills and crumbs from settling in. Dining chairs tend to take the brunt of mealtime messes too—give them a quick wipe and spot treatment when needed.
Let Your Couch Be a Couch
Look, the goal isn’t to keep your furniture spotless 24/7. It’s to live your life—comfortably, messily, joyfully—and then give your home (and your furniture) the TLC they deserve.
When it’s time for that deep clean, our hot water extraction process goes where vacuums can’t, flushing out the dirt, germs and allergens buried in the cushions. You’ll get a fresh, clean feel (and smell) without lifting a finger.
Ready to Refresh Your Couch? Book online in just a few clicks.
