How do you wash couch cushions?

Couch cushions are enduring constant wear and tear. Knowing the best way to clean couch cushions is crucial to maintaining their freshness and longevity, whether it's the odd spill, pet hair, or the accumulation of daily grime.

This guide will walk you through essential steps, from understanding materials to drying techniques, so your clothes can look as good as new.

Know your couch cushion material

Not all models are created equal, and different fabrics require different care. For instance, those made from synthetic fibres like polyester or nylon can often handle more aggressive methods. On the other hand, delicate like velvet or silk may need extra attention.

Check the care label. It will tell you whether you can machine wash couch cushions or whether they need to be cleaned by hand.

Steps to clean sofa cushions

Once you’ve identified the material, it's time to work. Here's the step-by-step guide to washing efficiently:

1. Remove the covers

If your cushions have removable covers, this is where you start. Washing removable cushion covers separately ensures a deep clean without harming the foam inside. Zip off them carefully to avoid any tears.

2. Vacuum thoroughly

Remove all loose dirt and dust. Vacuum both the covers and the foam. 

3. Spot treat stains

Use a gentle upholstery cleaner or a mix of warm water and mild detergent to pre-treat any noticeable stains. Blot – don’t rub – the stains, as rubbing can spread the dirt and damage the fabric fibres.

4. Hand wash sofa cushions or machine?

For synthetic fabrics, you can machine wash them. Choose a delicate cycle with cold water to prevent shrinking. For more delicate fabrics, hand-washing sofa cushions in a basin of lukewarm water mixed with a mild detergent is better.

5. Clean the foam inserts

Knowing how to wash foam cushions is vital. Submerge the foam inserts in a tub of warm water and mild soap, pressing down gently to help the water soak through. Avoid twisting or wringing the foam, as this could distort its shape.

6. Rinse and repeat

Rinse the covers and foam with new water to remove any soap residue. It’s important to wash all detergent out to avoid stiff or sticky fabrics later.

7. Drying couch cushions

Proper drying is essential to prevent mould and odours. If possible, drying them in the sun is ideal, as the natural UV rays help kill any remaining bacteria. Alternatively, use a dryer with low heat. Toss some tennis or dryer balls to help maintain the shape during drying.

Cleaning may seem daunting, but keeping them fresh is easy with the right approach.

Special considerations for different fabrics

Different fabrics require different approaches. Here's a breakdown of how to handle various common materials:

• velvet and silk – these delicate materials need extra care. Avoid soaking velvet cushions in water, which can cause the fabric to wrinkle or fade. Instead, spot clean with a damp cloth and mild detergent;

• leather – leather doesn’t need to be washed in the traditional sense. Instead, clean it with a specialised leather cleaner and conditioner. Leather can crack if it dries out, so regular conditioning helps keep it supple.

A quick guide to cleaning upholstery cushions is always to read the label and follow manufacturer recommendations.

Couch cushion care tips

Maintaining between deep cleanings of couch cushions can significantly extend their lifespan. With these care tips, you can keep them fresh and plush for longer:

• rotate your cushions – swap them around periodically to distribute wear evenly;

• vacuum regularly – by vacuuming them once a week, you’ll remove any dirt and dust that could lead to grime buildup;

• use protective covers – if you have children or pets, consider using protective covers;

• tackle spills immediately – the longer a stain sets, the harder it is to remove.

By following these care tips, you can keep your furniture looking pristine without needing constant deep cleaning.