🛋️✨ How to Clean a Couch with Baking Soda: Refresh, Deodorize & Keep It Fresh
- Home Reimagined
- 2 days ago
- 5 min read
If your couch has started smelling “off” but doesn’t necessarily look dirty, don’t panic! One of my favorite go-to solutions is baking soda—simple, affordable, and incredibly effective. Whether you have pets, kids, or just the everyday crumbs and spills that life throws at your furniture, baking soda is a natural powerhouse for deodorizing, refreshing, and maintaining your upholstery.
Unlike sprays that mask odors temporarily, baking soda actually absorbs them, leaving your couch smelling fresh and clean. Plus, it’s non-toxic and safe to use around your home—no harsh chemicals or fumes required. 🧼✨
Why Baking Soda Works So Well for Upholstery
Baking soda isn’t just for baking! Its tiny, natural crystals absorb moisture, neutralize odors, and lift mild stains from fabric surfaces. For couches that see everything from spilled coffee to muddy paw prints, this is a game-changer. It’s also gentle on most common fabrics like polyester, microfiber, and cotton blends, which makes it ideal for everyday household use.
However, avoid leather, faux leather, silk, and delicate vintage fabrics. Baking soda can dry them out, leave white residue, or even cause discoloration. A small spot test in a hidden area takes just a couple of minutes, and it can save a lot of stress later. Think of it as a mini experiment before the big refresh! 🧪
Preparing Your Couch for a Baking Soda Refresh
Before you even sprinkle a single pinch of baking soda, prepping your couch makes all the difference:
1️⃣ Remove Pillows and Blankets
Clear the couch entirely so you can access every corner. This is also a good time to remove any pillow covers or throws for a quick wash. A freshly laundered pillowcase paired with a deodorized couch? Chef’s kiss! 👏
2️⃣ Vacuum Thoroughly
Baking soda works best on a clean surface, so vacuum first to remove crumbs, pet hair, and dust. I recommend using an upright vacuum with an upholstery attachment or a handheld vacuum like the Dyson V7 Trigger for precise, targeted suction. If you have pets, a sticky lint roller can also help remove stubborn hair before you start.
3️⃣ Spot-Treat Stains
If your couch has visible stains, tackle them before sprinkling baking soda. For light spills, a fabric-safe stain remover like Folex works wonders, while tougher pet stains may need a specialized enzymatic cleaner. Treating stains first ensures your baking soda is only deodorizing, not trying to mask underlying grime.
4️⃣ Test the Fabric
Always sprinkle a tiny amount of baking soda in a hidden corner and wait 10–15 minutes. Check for any color change, residue, or dryness. It’s a two-minute step that prevents hours of regret later. ✅
Applying Baking Soda: Tips for Even Coverage
Once you’ve confirmed it’s safe, it’s time to sprinkle. Here’s how to do it like a pro:
Pour baking soda into a shaker bottle or fine-mesh strainer for a light, even dusting.
Think “snow dusting,” not “baking project”—you want a thin, uniform layer, not a mountain of powder. ❄️
Spread across all surfaces, including cushions, arms, and corners.
How Long Should Baking Soda Sit? ⏱️
The duration depends on how strong the odor is:
Light, everyday smells: 20–30 minutes is plenty.
Pet odors, food spills, or musty cushions: Let it sit for a few hours—or even overnight—for maximum absorption.
The longer it sits, the more deeply it penetrates the fibers to neutralize odors. This flexibility makes it perfect for busy homes—you can sprinkle it in the morning and vacuum later in the day while tackling other chores! 💪
Vacuuming Off Baking Soda: Do It Right
Don’t just swipe it off the surface—lift it from the fibers:
Use slow, overlapping passes with gentle pressure.
An upholstery brush attachment is ideal because it agitates the fabric slightly, loosening trapped baking soda and debris.
If you don’t have a brush attachment, a handheld vacuum with a smaller head works just as well.
Pro tip: Vacuum in multiple directions to get trapped particles out of all the nooks and crannies. Your couch will feel fresher, cleaner, and fluffier instantly! 🧹✨
Optional Follow-Up Spray 🌿
Sometimes a light mist spray adds an extra layer of freshness:
Use a fabric-safe spray or make a DIY option with vodka in a spray bottle—it neutralizes odors and dries quickly.
Always spray lightly, never soak the fabric, and let airflow dry completely before sitting.
Moisture-sensitive fabrics can warp or discolor, so always follow the care tag instructions first.
How Often Should You Refresh Your Couch? 🗓️
For most homes, every 1–2 months keeps odors in check. You might want to do it more often if you have:
Pets 🐶🐱
Kids with snack habits 🍿
High traffic or guest use
A quick baking soda refresh is a simple way to maintain that “just cleaned” vibe without full deep cleaning every time.
Top Tips to Prevent Odors or Moisture Build-Up
Open windows when possible for airflow 🌬️
Rotate cushions regularly for even wear 🔄
Vacuum weekly to remove surface debris 🧹
Avoid eating messy foods on fabric furniture 🍕
Let spills dry fully—never trap moisture! 💧
When to Call in the Pros
Sometimes odors linger or stains are persistent. If:
Musty smells persist even after cleaning
Stains won’t lift with standard treatments
Your care tag recommends professional cleaning
…then it’s time to hire a professional service to give your couch a proper deep clean.
FAQ
Q: How long should I leave baking soda on my couch?
A: 30 minutes for light odors; a few hours or overnight for stronger smells.
Q: Will baking soda remove urine or pet smells?
A: It helps neutralize odors but may not remove deep pet stains—treat those first.
Q: Can I use baking soda on leather or faux leather?
A: No. Baking soda can dry out and damage these surfaces.
Q: Does baking soda stain upholstery?
A: Not when used correctly, but always test in a hidden spot first.
Q: How often should I clean my couch with baking soda?
A: Every 1–2 months for maintenance and odor prevention.
Recommended Products for Couch Cleaning 🛋️
Baking Soda – Naturally deodorizes and refreshes fabrics
Folex Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner – Spot treatment for stains
Dyson V7 Trigger Handheld Vacuum – Perfect for upholstery
Upholstery Brush Vacuum Attachment – Lifts particles from fibers
Fine-Mesh Strainer or Shaker Bottle – Evenly dust baking soda
Fabric-Safe Spray or Vodka in Spray Bottle – Optional freshening
Lint Roller – Quick hair and debris removal before baking soda
✨ Bottom Line
A baking soda couch refresh is quick, affordable, and effective. With just a little preparation, careful application, and smart vacuuming, your upholstery will smell fresher, feel cleaner, and be ready for everyday life with pets, kids, and snacks. 🐾🍿🛋️
💫 Until next time,
Comments