Know what type of fabric you’re dealing with.

Read the tag on your couch to determine whether or not you can use water, if it’s vacuum-only, or if only a dry cleaning solvent can be used. “Sometimes, even using water on the wrong fabric can leave a stain,” warns Johnson. You may think your couch is microfiber—a plush, manmade material crafted from polyester and nylon—but it’s a good idea to confirm before you start cleaning.

Get to spills and stains fast!

The sooner you start to treat stains, the better, so they won’t have time to set. While it may be tempting to ignore a spill that happens while guests are over or while you’re in the middle of a show, it’s best to start treating the stain right away.

How to Clean an Upholstered Couch:

What You’ll Need:

Vacuum with a crevice attachment Lint roller (optional)Rubbing alcoholSpray bottleClean clothBaking soda

Follow These Steps: