Sofa Care Guide

To keep your sofa looking in top conditions for years to come, regular cleaning and proper care are essential.

Learn more about how to maintain fabric and leather sofas over time below.

  • Fabric
  • Leather

Fabric Sofa Maintenance

Check out our suggestions for how to clean and care for fabric sofas below.

  • Cleaning
  • Care

Fabric Cleaning

Clear dust regularly

Regular vacuuming prevents dirt, dust, and pet hair from settling into the fabric leading to wear and tear:

  • Vacuum weekly or monthly, paying special attention to seams and crevices
  • For deeper cleaning, use a soft brush attachment to loosen embedded particles

Spot clean as needed

For persistent stains on the fabric, spot cleaning is recommended:

  • Test your cleaning solution (fabric cleaner, soap solution) on an inconspicuous areas first to ensure that it does not lead to discolouration
  • Post confirmation that the cleaning solution does not lead to discolouration, apply the solution on the stained area
  • Blot the stain with a damp clean cloth or sponge, working from the outside in to prevent stain from spreading
  • Rub slightly if the stains refuse to come off, avoid heavy scrubbing which may damage the fibers
  • Rinse the cleaned area with a damp cloth to remove remaining cleaning solution on the fabric
  • This step is essential as leftover cleaner can attract dirt and cause fabric discolouration overtime

Wash as needed

For sofas with removable covers, when it comes to washing, please take note of the following:

  • Rub detergent on stained areas first before wash for optimal cleaning effect
  • Cover any velcro strips with thin fabric strips or fold them inwards to reduce friction on fabric during wash that can lead to pilling
  • Put sofa covers in laundry bags and wash them separately to prevent avoid snaggings due to hard objects such as zippers
  • Keep total washing time below 40 minutes and use cold wash to reduce fabric shrinkage
  • For tumble drying, use the lowest spin speed possbile, ideally less than 600 rotations per minute
  • Air dry the fabric covers post wash
  • When the covers are slightly damp, refit them onto the sofa, this helps the covers to maintain their shape

Fabric Care

Prevent discolouration

Discolouration can occur due to improper cleaning, sun exposure or sweat exposure:

  • Follow our spot cleaning and washing instructions listed above to prevent discolouration due to cleaning
  • Keep fabric sofa away from direct sunlight for prolonged periods
  • Avoid sitting on the sofa when sweaty

Reduce wear and tear

Reduce wear and tear due to regular use by following these steps:

  • Avoid sitting on the same spot all the time
  • Add armrest covers and sofa covers on top of the sofa for additional fabric protection
  • Keep sharp objects such as keys away from the fabric surface

Leather Sofa Maintenance

Check out our suggestions for how to clean and care for leather sofas below.

  • Cleaning
  • Care

Leather Cleaning

Clear dust regularly

Prevent buildup of dust and debris that can lead to increased chance of wear and tear:

  • Vacuum crevices to eliminate dust and debris that can increase abrasion leading to faster wear and tear
  • Use a soft cloth to remove dust from sofa surface areas to maintain a clean look
  • Avoid using cloth with excess water during the cleaning process as too much moisture can damage the leather

Spot clean as needed

Prevent buildup of dust and debris that can lead to increased chance of wear and tear:

  • For slight stains, use a gentle soap solution with water
  • For deep stains, use specialized leather cleaner
  • Spray the soap solution or leather cleaner onto a soft cloth instead of directly on the sofa
  • Wipe the stain area from the outside in to prevent spreading

Leather Care

Prevent discolouration

Discolouration can occur due to improper cleaning, sun exposure or sweat exposure:

  • Follow our spot cleaning and washing instructions listed above to prevent discolouration due to cleaning
  • Keep fabric sofa away from direct sunlight for prolonged periods
  • Avoid sitting on the sofa when sweaty as sweat contains salts and oils that can break down leather overtime

Prevent cracking

Cracking occur due to loss of moisture and natural oils, leading to dryness and brittleness overtime:

  • Condition the leather every 6 to 12 months using leather conditioner to maintain its suppleness
  • During application of the leather conditioner, apply two light coats instead of one thick coat, which may leave a greasy residue
  • Use a soft cloth to spread the conditioner evenly, allowing it to absorb fully before buffing with a dry cloth for a smooth finish

Last updated: 15th Feb 2025