How To Steam Clean A Couch & Upholstery

Looking to learn how to steam clean your couch or upholstery? Check out our guide on how to steam clean a couch or upholstery and get started today!

Table Of Contents [Show]

What do Those Codes on Furniture Tags Really Mean?

Code S

Steam Cleaning: How to Clean a Couch With a Steamer

Steam Cleaning Upholstery and Couches Video

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

When it comes to steam cleaning a couch, many people immediately think of calling in the professionals. However, this is not always necessary. With the right tools and method, you can easily steam clean your couch at home. In this article, we will walk you through exactly how to do this. By following our simple steps, you can have your couch looking good as new in no time.

What do Those Codes on Furniture Tags Really Mean?

Before undertaking any couch cleaning tasks it is essential to find the furniture care tags.

These codes indicate how the piece should be cleaned, and can help you decide whether steam cleaning a couch is the correct course of action.

Code W

“W” indicates that the piece can be cleaned with water-based solutions, including steam cleaners.

The code “W” indicates that you can use a water-based cleaner. This includes foam cleaners, mild detergents, spot cleaners and steam cleaners.. Be sure to test the cleaner in an inconspicuous area first to check for colorfastness.

Code W-S

“W-S.” If you have a piece of furniture with a “W” and “S” code, it means that it is suitable for both water-based and solvent-based cleaners. This includes both steam cleaning and dry cleaning methods.

You can use either type of cleaner on these fabrics, but you may want to test a small area first to be sure. If you are using a water-based cleaner, be sure to rinse the fabric thoroughly afterwards to remove any residue.

Code X

Code “X” means the couch is not suitable for steam cleaning.

If you’re trying to clean your couch and you see a “X” on the tag, that means that you cannot steam that particular piece of furniture. You might be wondering what other cleaning options you have for upholstery with a “X” on it.

There are a few different ways to clean furniture with a “X.” One way is to use a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment. This will help loosen any dirt or debris that’s stuck in the fabric. Another option is to get your couch professionally cleaned.

Code S

“S” means that the piece should only be cleaned with solvents.

The code “S” means that you should use a dry-cleaning solvent on the item in question. You should not use a steam cleaner on an item with this code, as it could damage the fabric.

You’ll usually see this code on more delicate fabrics like silk or velvet. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using a dry-cleaning solvent.

Steam Cleaning: How to Clean a Couch With a Steamer

When it comes to cleaning the couch, there are a few things you need to do in order to prepare it.

Step 1: Vacuum the Couch
- Vacuuming the couch is a great way to remove crumbs and debris. It’s quick and easy, and it will leave your couch looking and feeling clean.
  i) Start by removing any pillows or cushions from the couch.
  ii) Then, using the upholstery attachment on your vacuum, start at one end of the couch and work your way across.
  iii) Be sure to vacuum in both directions – back and forth – to pick up all the crumbs and debris.

Step 2: Pre-Treat Stains
- When it comes to cleaning your couch, pre-treating stains is a must. Not only will it help to remove the stain, but it will also help to protect your couch from further damage.
- Here are a few tips on how to pre-treat stains before steam cleaning your couch:
- First, identify the type of stain you’re dealing with. Is it oil-based? Water-based? Oil based or Protein-based?
  Knowing this will help you choose the right pre-treatment solution.
- Water based stains, such as tea or coffee are usually easier to remove and will often come out with steam cleaning alone.
- Oil-based stains can be removed with a pre-treatment product like Resolve Multi-Fabric Cleaner.This type of stain is typically caused by cooking grease or cooking spillsl, and will require a solvent to break down the stain.
- Protein-based stains are usually caused by food, sweat, or blood and will require a pre-treatment product similar to that recommended for oil stains.

It is always recommended to try any pre-treatment solutions in an inconspicuous area before extensive use.

Step 3: Pre-heat or Prepare Your Steam Cleaner for Use
- Hand-held steamers and floor machines with attachments can both be used to clean a couch.
- A hand-held steamer is great for getting into tight spaces and corners. Floor machines with attachments are better for large areas.
- Both types of cleaners will remove dirt, dust and other allergens from your couch.
- Pre-heat steamer as directed by manufacturers instructions.
- Most steamers come with a pre-heat setting. This is necessary in order to get the water hot enough to create steam. The amount of time needed to pre-heat the steamer will vary depending on the model. Once the water is boiling, lower the heat to maintain a steady stream of steam.

Step 4: Steam Cleaning Your Couch
- When steam cleaning a couch, it is best to start with the loose pillows and cushions. Begin by holding the steamer close to the fabric and moving it back and forth.
- Steam one side of the cushions at a time and allow them to partially dry before completing the other side. This will help to prevent the cushions from becoming too wet and will also speed up the drying process. Be sure to use a low heat setting on your steamer so that you do not damage the fabric.
- Now it’s time to start steam cleaning the large parts of the couch, work on small areas of the couch at a time.
- Stubborn stains can be worked on in multiple passes.

Step 5: Finishing Up
- Allowing your couch to dry out in the sun is the best way to prevent mold and mildew from developing. If you can’t put your couch in the sun, be sure to open up all the windows in the room to allow for proper ventilation.
- Once your couch is dry, be sure to vacuum it thoroughly. This will help to remove any dust or dirt that may have been left behind during the cleaning process.

Steam Cleaning Upholstery and Couches Video

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can You Steam Clean a Couch?

Yes, you can steam clean a couch. This is a great way to clean your couch if it is made of a material that can withstand the heat. You will have to check your couch information label to check suitability.
You will need to use a steamer that is designed for upholstery and fabric. Be sure to test a small area of your couch first to ensure that the heat will not damage it.

Can You Steam Clean a Suede Couch?

Suede is a delicate fabric that can be difficult to clean. You can steam clean a suede couch, but you need to take special care to avoid damaging the suede.

It is important to check the couch care labels for guidance.When steaming a suede couch, use a low setting and hold the steamer about six inches away from the couch. Move the steamer slowly over the surface of the couch.

Do not let the steam sit on one spot for too long, as this can cause water spots or damage the suede. After steaming, brush the nap of the suede with a soft brush to restore its original appearance.

Can a Fabric Steamer Remove Stains?

A fabric steamer can be a great way to remove stains from clothing. However, it is important to know how to use one properly in order to avoid damaging your clothes.

Here are a few tips on using a fabric steamer to remove stains:
First, make sure that the fabric steamer is turned on and heated up before using it on the stain. Otherwise, you run the risk of actually setting the stain into the fabric.

Next, hold the steamer about an inch or two above the stain and move it back and forth until the stain is gone. You may need to go over it a few times to get all of the stain out.

Finally, once the stain is gone, immediately rinse the area with cold water to remove any residual steam or moisture. This will help prevent any further damage to the fabric.

In conclusion,it is easy to steam clean a couch with the right tools. Just make sure your couch is suitable by checking the couch label.

First, gather all the materials you need. Next, vacuum the couch to remove any dirt and debris. Then, use the steamer to clean the couch. Finally, let the couch dry completely before using it again.

About the author

Article by

Ian Sparrow

I’m Ian Sparrow, founder of cleanlifeguide.com. I’ve been working with WordPress for over 5 years and love it! I’m always looking for new ways to improve my skills and learn new things.