Your sofa is one of the most used pieces of furniture in your home. From family movie nights to afternoon naps, it takes a lot of wear and tear. Naturally, regular sofa cleaning is essential to keep your sofa fresh, hygienic, and looking its best.
But here’s the problem: many people unknowingly damage their sofas when trying to clean them. Using the wrong method, product, or technique during sofa cleaning can shorten its lifespan and even void warranties.
To help you protect your investment, we’ve put together this guide to the most common sofa cleaning mistakes to avoid and what you should do instead.
1. Over-Wetting the Fabric
One of the biggest mistakes people make when cleaning sofas is using too much water. Saturating fabric can lead to:
Water stains
Shrinking or warping of material
Mould and mildew growth inside cushions
What to do instead: Always use as little moisture as possible during sofa cleaning. Blot stains with a damp (not soaking wet) cloth. For deeper cleaning, professional upholstery cleaning equipment uses controlled moisture extraction to avoid over-wetting.
2. Scrubbing Stains Aggressively
It’s tempting to attack a stain with elbow grease, but harsh scrubbing can:
Push the stain deeper into the fibres
Distort the fabric’s weave
Leave rough, worn patches
What to do instead: Blot, don’t scrub. Use a clean, absorbent cloth and dab the spot gently. Work from the outside of the stain inward to prevent spreading during sofa cleaning.
3. Ignoring the Sofa’s Cleaning Codes
Most sofas come with a manufacturer’s cleaning code tag. These tags tell you whether your sofa should be cleaned with water, solvent cleaners, or only vacuuming. Ignoring them during sofa cleaning can cause irreversible damage.
W = Water-based cleaners are safe
S = Use solvent-based cleaners only
WS = Either water or solvent-based is fine
X = Vacuum only (no liquids)
Make sure to always check the tag before using any product. When in doubt, test a small hidden area first.
4. Using the Wrong Cleaning Products
Bleach, harsh chemicals, and even some multipurpose cleaners can discolour or weaken upholstery fabric. Leather sofas, in particular, can dry out and crack if treated with the wrong solution.
What to do instead: Use cleaners designed specifically for upholstery or natural, gentle alternatives like baking soda for deodorising. For leather, use a pH-balanced leather cleaner and conditioner. Choosing the right products is key for safe sofa cleaning.
5. Skipping Regular Vacuuming
Many people only clean their sofa when it looks dirty, but dust, crumbs, pet hair, and allergens build up daily. Skipping regular vacuuming not only makes the sofa unhygienic but also wears down the fibres faster.
What to do instead: Vacuum your sofa weekly with a soft brush attachment. Pay attention to crevices where dust and food particles collect. This simple habit is a crucial part of regular sofa cleaning.
6. Trying to Mask Odours Instead of Removing Them
Spraying air fresheners or fabric perfumes may hide odours temporarily, but they don’t solve the root problem.
What to do instead: Sprinkle baking soda over the sofa, leave it for 15–20 minutes, then vacuum it up to absorb smells. For persistent odours, professional sofa cleaning is the best option.
The Bottom Line
Your sofa is a big investment, and keeping it clean isn’t just about appearance. It’s about comfort, hygiene, and longevity. By avoiding these common sofa cleaning mistakes, you can protect your sofa and keep it looking fresh for years to come.
At Bad Boy Cleaners, we specialise in professional sofa cleaning services that are safe, effective, and tailored to your fabric type. Whether it’s removing stubborn stains, eliminating odours, or deep cleaning for better indoor air quality, we’ve got you covered.
Ready to give your sofa a fresh start? Contact us today to book your professional sofa cleaning service.