Oh, the memories you will make on your new sofa! From cosy evenings binging your favourite shows with your furry best friend at your feet to gathering your loved ones to celebrate the holidays with a delicious spread of finger food, it is always there for you. However, all the merrymaking can lead to the occasional stain or spill, not to mention everyday grime. So, how can you keep your sofa looking its best when you lead a busy lifestyle? Here are some tips and tricks to help you care for your sofa year after year.
Protecting your Sofa
Caring for your new sofa starts before you even sit on it. Sunlight can take a toll on your sofa’s colour, so make sure to place your new piece of furniture away from direct rays. You may want to invest in draping as sunlight changes during the day. Heat sources, such as radiators, pipes, or fireplaces, can also cause the material to dry out, so stay clear.
Another way to protect your sofa, especially for light colours or if your household includes young children or pets, is to invest in machine-washable blankets and throws to be placed in strategic areas. Heavy-duty areas, such as the arms, are particularly prone to spillages.
Regular Maintenance
Adding a little sofa care to your cleaning routine can go a long way in keeping your new piece of furniture looking its best. Dirt, grime, pet hair, and transpiration tend to accumulate over time, so give it a good scrub with a soft brush or use your vacuum’s upholstery brush. It is the perfect time to check all the nooks and crannies for debris, small toys, and change. It is particularly important for textured fabric, such as the soft boucle on our Jasper sofa, Phoebe collection, and Cammy swivel chair. For velvet sofas, such as our cosy Buffy sofa bed, regular brushing can also help protect the pan of the velvet and minimise crushing the pan in high-use areas.
If your sofa has separate sitting and back cushions, it is a good idea to flip them regularly to extend its longevity. It is an easy way to help your sofa keep its shape and comfort level longer. Plump up your cushions at the end of each day, especially at the end of a long sitting session like a movie marathon.
Cleaning Spillages
Oops! Your cup of hot cocoa or favourite adult beverage took a tumble? Markers and chocolate have made their way to the living room despite your best efforts? Stains are an unavoidable part of life, but it is best to take care of big messes sooner than later to avoid permanent staining.
If the slipcovers are removable, such as the crisp linen of our Lorne collection, you are in luck. If the slipcovers are machine-washable, you will be back to having a brand-new-looking sofa in no time. You may need to treat the stain ahead of time for more stubborn substances. If the slipcovers are not machine-washable, then a trip to the dry cleaner should do the trick.
If your sofa does not have removable slipcovers, then time may be of the essence. Bloat the spillage immediately using a clean, colour-fast cloth to avoid the liquid soaking into the fibres of the fabric and creating a stain. Depending on the nature of the spillage, you may be able to spot clean with some mild soapy water. However, make sure to test on an inconspicuous area first to avoid bad surprises. If possible, you can use specialised stain removers based on your manufacturer’s instructions.
Deep Cleaning
A good deep cleaning once or twice a year is an excellent way to keep your sofa looking as good as new for many years to come. If your sofa does not have a removable slipcover, you will want to trust the professionals. A sofa is an investment piece, and specialised services have all the equipment necessary to avoid any mishaps due to a DIY cleaning session gone wrong.
Things are, of course, a lot easier if you have a sofa with removable slipcovers. A trip to the dry cleaner or a spin in the washing machine will keep your sofa looking its best as needed. We recommend getting an extra slipcover set to get the look of a brand-new couch for a fraction of the price if possible.
