Keeping non-removable couch cushions clean can be a really difficult task. But, it’s an important thing to do and, if left uncleaned, they could potentially become a breeding ground for bacteria. Not to mention, there will at some point be the inevitable stain that needs cleaning off!
So, just how do you deep clean non-removable couch cushions? Below, we’ll take you through a step-by-step guide to show you exactly how to do it and, by the time you’re done, your gorgeous couch cushions will look better than ever!
Vacuum the cushions
The first step in restoring your non-removable couch cushions to their former glory is to give them a vacuum.
If your vacuum cleaner has a special upholstery attachment, use that to go over every square inch of your cushions. This will remove any surface debris including dust and pet hair.
If the attachment has bristles on the outer edges, take a little care when vacuuming your couch cushions. If you go too hard you might end up fraying or tearing the upholstery.
Beat the cushions
Once you’ve vacuumed up the surface dirt on your couch cushions, you’ll need to give them a good beating to get rid of any ingrained dust and debris. If the cushion covers are removable, take them outside to do this.
If they aren’t make sure you’ve opened a few windows before you start beating them. This should encourage any dust to float up into the air and get carried outside.
Also, if the cushion covers aren’t removable, give them a second vacuum once you’ve beaten them. This will allow you to suck up any hidden dust that has now settled on the surface.
Check the fabric
There are loads of different fabrics used to make couch cushions, and it’s important to check what yours is made of so that you can clean it properly. It will also prevent you from causing any damage to them.
Once you know what the fabric is, you’ll know whether you can use a water-based cleaning product, a solvent-based cleaning product, or if they need to be steam-cleaned. Below, you’ll find information on how to clean non-removable couch cushions using each of these methods.
Cleaning non-removable couch cushions with a water-based cleaning product
Before you go for anything too heavy-duty, it’s best to use a classic combination of soap and water to clean your couch cushions.
If this doesn’t give you the results you’re looking for or if you’re trying to clean a particularly stubborn stain, you can use an active water-based cleaning product.
Regardless of what you’re using, you should take care not to scrub the couch cushions as this can damage the fabric. Instead, work in a gentle, circular motion.
Cleaning non-removable couch cushions with a solvent-based cleaning product
If your couch cushions have an “S” on their tag, they will need to be cleaned using a solvent-based cleaning product. This also means that no water should come into contact with them whatsoever. This makes things a little more difficult, but not entirely impossible.
Apply your solvent-based cleaning product as per the instructions on the bottle. Once it’s done, you’ll need to use an air compressor to blast it away. This will give you clean couch cushions without having to use any water.
Cleaning non-removable couch cushions with steam
There is an easier way to clean a couch cushion with an “S” tag. You can use the power of steam! Since the water isn’t in liquid form, it won’t damage the cushions or the fabric. It will also blast away any dirt, grime, or stains without even using any cleaning solution.
Steam will also kill any bacteria and remove any unpleasant odors that are lurking in your sofa! This makes it one of the best tools for deep cleaning non-removable couch cushions.
Dry the couch cushions
Whichever method you’ve chosen to clean your couch cushions, one of the most important steps is making sure that they are dry. The easiest way to do this is to let them air dry.
If it’s a nice day, leave plenty of windows open and move your couch into the sunniest place possible. If you have a garden (and someone to help you) you can even take it outside and let it dry in the fresh air for a few hours.
If neither of these is a possibility, your best bet is to use some towels to soak up any excess moisture. Again, don’t scrub the cushions, just lay the towels on them and apply some pressure to help them soak up any water.
The cushions won’t be entirely dry once you’ve done this, but they’ll certainly have less water in them. Leave the couch in place and don’t let anybody sit on it until it’s completely dry.
How can I clean the inside of my couch cushions?
Even if the surface of your couch cushions look gleamingly clean, there could be dirt and bacteria lurking deep inside them. If this is left, they’ll soon start producing a bad smell. It can also be a real issue for anybody with dust allergies.
So, how can you clean the inside of your couch cushions to stop this from happening?
The best way is to use a steam cleaner. This will send steam straight into the middle of your couch cushions, cleaning the inside of them and killing any bacteria in the process.
Most steam cleaners also have a vacuum attachment and this sucks the dirty water that the steam has created back out of the cushions as it cleans.
As you empty the water away, you’ll be surprised by just how much dirt the steam cleaner has pulled out your cushions. You’ll also be pleased to know that it’s no longer in there!
Once you’ve cleaned the inside of couch cushions, leave them in a sunny position with plenty of airflow until they are dry. Steam cleaning doesn’t saturate your cushions with water, so it won’t take very long until they are completely dry.
