Couches are the heart of the living room—but over time, they absorb odors from food, pets, spills, and daily use. If your couch has started to smell a little funky, don’t worry—you don’t need to replace it. With the right cleaning routine, you can refresh it back to life. Here’s how:
Step 1: Identify the Source of the Smell
Before you jump into cleaning, figure out what’s causing the odor.
Common culprits include:
Food crumbs and spills
Pet hair and dander
Body oils or sweat
Mold or moisture buildup
Why this matters: It helps you choose the best cleaning method for your fabric and the problem.
Step 2: Check the Fabric Care Tag
Look for the tag underneath your cushions or couch frame. It usually has one of the following codes:
W – Water-based cleaners only
S – Solvent-based cleaners only
WS – Both water and solvent cleaners are safe
X – Vacuum only (professional cleaning recommended)
Pro Tip: Always spot test a cleaner on a hidden area first!
Step 3: Vacuum Thoroughly
Use a handheld vacuum or upholstery attachment to remove:
Dust and loose debris
Food crumbs
Pet hair
Don’t forget: Get into the creases, under cushions, and behind the couch.
Step 4: Deodorize With Baking Soda
Baking soda is a natural odor absorber.
Sprinkle a generous amount over the couch.
Let it sit for at least 30 minutes—or overnight for stronger smells.
Vacuum it off completely.
Optional: Mix baking soda with a few drops of essential oil (like lavender or lemon) for a fresh scent.
Ground Tasker made my apartment sparkle in no time! The team was punctual, professional, and super efficient. Highly recommend for anyone looking for hassle-free cleaning or setup services.
Step 5: Spot Clean Stains
Use a mild fabric cleaner or DIY solution (like vinegar + water) depending on your fabric type.
Dab, don’t rub, the stain.
Use a microfiber cloth for best results.
Blot with a clean towel to absorb moisture.
Bonus Tips for Ongoing Freshness
Use couch covers or throws (wash them weekly).
Vacuum once a week to prevent buildup.
Keep pets off the couch—or use washable pet covers.
Treat spills immediately before they sink in.
Let It Breathe
After cleaning, let your couch air out completely.
Open windows or place a fan nearby.
Avoid using the couch until it’s 100% dry to prevent mold or mildew.
Need Professional Help?
Sometimes, DIY just isn’t enough—especially with deep-set smells, delicate fabrics, or suede/leather. That’s where Ground Tasker comes in. Our expert upholstery cleaning services remove odors, lift stains, and refresh your couch without the hassle.
Great post! It’s so important to make the switch to eco-friendly cleaning products. Thanks for sharing these recommendations; I’m definitely going to check some of them out.