How to clean different types of sofas – cleanLAD

A sofa is an essential piece of furniture that provides comfort and relaxation in our homes. It is a significant investment and needs proper care and maintenance to last for a long time. However, over time, sofas can accumulate dirt, stains, and unpleasant odours, making them look unsightly and uncomfortable.

When it comes to cleaning your sofa, you have two options: DIY cleaning or hiring a professional sofa cleaner. DIY cleaning involves using household cleaning products and tools to clean your sofa by yourself, while hiring a professional sofa cleaner involves hiring a trained and experienced cleaner to do the job for you.

Both options have their advantages and disadvantages, and choosing the best one for your sofa depends on several factors, such as the type of sofa, the severity of the stains, and your budget.

In this section, we will explore the different types of sofas that are common in Singapore and provide you with a DIY cleaning guide and tips on when to hire a sofa cleaner.

Picture by Novena

Standard 3-seater or L-shaped sofa

A standard 3-seater or L-shaped sofa is a versatile and popular piece of furniture designed to accommodate multiple people comfortably. The L-shaped sofa, also known as a sectional, typically consists of two or more modular pieces that form a right angle or an L shape, providing ample seating and maximizing space utilization. These sofas come in various upholstery materials, such as fabric, leather, and faux leather, each requiring specific cleaning techniques.

In this section, we will discuss how to clean a standard 3-seater or L-shaped sofa yourself, the process used by a professional sofa cleaner, and the costs involved in cleaning this type of furniture.

Cleaning a Standard 3-Seater or L-Shaped Sofa Yourself:

1. Cushion Care: Start by removing the cushions, if detachable, and shaking them outdoors to eliminate dust and loose debris. Vacuum the cushions with an upholstery attachment, paying close attention to seams and folds. If the cushion covers are removable and machine washable, follow the manufacturer’s care instructions for cleaning.
   
   
2. Surface Cleaning: With the cushions removed, vacuum the entire surface of the sofa, including the base, arms, and backrest. Use a soft brush attachment and be sure to reach into corners and crevices where dust and dirt may accumulate.
   
   
3. Fabric Upholstery: If your 3-seater or L-shaped sofa is upholstered in fabric, first check the care label for cleaning instructions. In most cases, you can use a fabric-specific cleaner or a mild soap solution (a few drops of mild soap mixed with water). Moisten a clean cloth with the cleaning solution and gently wipe the sofa’s surface, taking care not to over-saturate the fabric. After cleaning, use another clean cloth to pat the fabric dry.
   
   
4. Leather or Faux Leather Upholstery: For leather or faux leather upholstery, use a leather-specific cleaner or a mild soap solution. Apply the cleaner to a soft cloth and gently wipe the entire surface of the sofa, taking care not to damage the material. After cleaning, use a clean, dry cloth to remove any remaining moisture and apply a leather conditioner to maintain the material’s softness and luster.
   
   
5. Reassembly: Once the sofa and cushions are clean and dry, replace the cushions and any decorative elements such as throw pillows or blankets.
   
   

Methods of a Professional Sofa Cleaner:

A professional sofa cleaner has the expertise and equipment to clean a wide range of upholstery materials, ensuring that your standard 3-seater or L-shaped sofa is cleaned safely and effectively. The process typically includes the following steps:

1. Assessment: The sofa cleaner will first examine the sofa to determine the type of upholstery material and identify any areas that require special attention, such as stains or wear.
   
   
2. Pre-treatment: The cleaner will apply a pre-treatment solution to stains or heavily soiled areas to loosen dirt and grime, making the subsequent cleaning process more effective.
   
   
3. Deep Cleaning: Depending on the upholstery material, the professional sofa cleaner will use an appropriate deep cleaning method, such as steam cleaning for fabric upholstery or specialized cleaning solutions for leather or faux leather.
   
   
4. Drying and Deodorizing: After the deep cleaning process, the sofa cleaner will ensure that the sofa is properly dried and that any lingering odors are neutralized.
   
   
5. Inspection and Final Touches: The professional sofa cleaner will inspect the sofa to ensure that it is thoroughly cleaned and may apply a fabric protector or leather conditioner to maintain the sofa’s appearance and protect it from future stains.
   
   

Cost of Professional Sofa Cleaning for a standard 3-seater or L-shaped sofa:

The cost of hiring a professional sofa cleaner in Singapore for a standard 3-seater or L-shaped sofa depends on several factors, such as the size of the sofa, the type of upholstery material, and your location. On average, the cost ranges from $150 to $300 for cleaning a standard 3-seater or L-shaped sofa.

To find the best value and service, obtain quotes from multiple sofa cleaning companies and select a reputable cleaner with experience in handling various types of upholstery materials. Inquire about their cleaning methods, any guarantees they provide, and the estimated time needed to complete the cleaning process.

Our recommendation for hiring a professional sofa cleaner for a 3 seater & L shape sofa would be cleanLAD.

Photo by Castlery

Sectional Sofa

A sectional sofa is a type of sofa that is composed of multiple pieces, usually designed to fit together to form a larger seating arrangement. They come in various shapes and configurations, such as L-shaped or U-shaped layouts, and can be arranged according to individual preferences and room layouts. Sectional sofas are popular for their versatility and ability to accommodate a large number of people comfortably.

To clean a sectional sofa yourself, follow these steps:

1. Remove loose debris: Use a vacuum cleaner to remove any loose dirt, dust, and pet hair from the surface of the sofa.
   
   
2. Check the care label: Before proceeding with any cleaning method, check the sofa’s care label for specific instructions and any warnings about cleaning products or methods to avoid.
3. Spot clean stains: If your sectional sofa has any stains, use a mild soap and water solution or a designated upholstery cleaner to spot clean. Test the solution on an inconspicuous area first to ensure it does not damage the fabric.
   
   
4. Clean the fabric: For general cleaning, use a soft-bristled brush or a clean cloth dampened with a mild soap and water solution to gently scrub the sofa’s surface. Avoid using too much water, as it may damage the fabric or padding.
   
   
5. Dry the sofa: Use a clean, dry cloth to remove any excess moisture from the sofa’s surface. Allow the sofa to air dry completely before reassembling and using it.
   
   
6. Clean removable covers: If your sectional sofa has removable covers, follow the care instructions on the label to clean them. This may involve machine washing or dry cleaning.
   
   

A professional sofa cleaner typically uses specialized equipment and cleaning solutions to deep clean the sofa. This may involve steam cleaning or dry cleaning, depending on the fabric and care instructions. Professionals have the expertise to remove stubborn stains and odors, while also protecting the fabric and ensuring proper drying.

The cost of having a sectional sofa professionally cleaned can vary depending on factors such as the size of the sofa, the extent of the cleaning required, and the location of the service provider. On average, you can expect to pay between $190 and upwards of $350 for professional sofa cleaning for a sectional sofa.

Our recommendation for a sectional sofa cleaning would be JustCleanLah as they are experts in fabric upholstery cleaning. Check out their page and contact them for a free quotation!

Picture by SingaporeHomeFurniture

Vintage / Traditional Sofa

A traditional or vintage sofa is a piece of furniture that features classic design elements, timeless style, and high-quality craftsmanship. These sofas often have intricate detailing, elegant curves, and are typically upholstered in luxurious fabrics like silk, velvet, or brocade. They can add a touch of sophistication and charm to any living space.

However, due to their delicate nature, cleaning and maintaining them can be a challenge. In this section, we will discuss the proper techniques to clean a vintage sofa yourself, the process employed by a professional sofa cleaner, and the costs involved in getting your traditional sofa cleaned.

Cleaning a Vintage Sofa Yourself:

1. Vacuuming: The first step in cleaning your traditional sofa is to remove any loose dirt, dust, and debris using a vacuum cleaner. Use a soft brush attachment to gently vacuum the upholstery, taking care not to damage the fabric or any intricate detailing. Make sure to vacuum all areas, including crevices, seams, and cushions.
   
   
2. Spot Cleaning: To address any stains or spills on your vintage sofa, use a gentle fabric cleaner specifically designed for delicate materials. Test the cleaner on an inconspicuous area first to ensure it won’t damage the fabric. Once you’ve confirmed it’s safe, apply the cleaner to a soft, clean cloth, and gently blot the stained area. Do not rub or scrub, as this can damage the fabric. After cleaning, pat the area dry with a clean, dry cloth.
   
   
3. Upholstery Cleaning: For a thorough cleaning, you can use a gentle upholstery cleaner or a mild solution of warm water and mild soap. Dampen a soft cloth with the cleaning solution and gently wipe the entire surface of the sofa. Be sure not to over-saturate the fabric. After cleaning, use another clean, dry cloth to gently pat the fabric dry.
   
   
4. Fabric Protection: To keep your traditional sofa looking its best, consider using a fabric protection spray specifically designed for delicate materials. This will create a protective barrier that helps repel stains and spills, making future cleanings easier.
   
   

Hiring a Sofa Cleaner:

An expert sofa cleaner specializes in cleaning various types of upholstery, including delicate fabrics found on traditional and vintage sofas. They have the expertise, equipment, and cleaning solutions necessary to ensure your sofa is cleaned safely and effectively. The process usually involves the following steps:

1. Inspection: The sofa cleaner will first inspect the sofa to determine the type of fabric and assess any stains or damage. This helps them choose the most appropriate cleaning method and solutions.
   
   
2. Pre-treatment: The sofa cleaner will apply a pre-treatment solution to any stains or heavily soiled areas, allowing it to penetrate and break down the dirt.
   
   
3. Steam Cleaning or Dry Cleaning: Depending on the type of fabric and the specific needs of your vintage sofa, the sofa cleaner may use steam cleaning or dry cleaning methods. Steam cleaning involves injecting hot water and cleaning solution into the fabric and extracting it, along with dirt and grime. Dry cleaning uses specialized solvents to clean the fabric without the use of water, making it ideal for delicate materials.
   
   
4. Post-treatment: After cleaning, the sofa cleaner may apply a fabric protector to help prevent future stains and maintain the sofa’s appearance.

Cost of Professional Sofa Cleaning:

The cost of hiring a professional sofa cleaner can vary depending on several factors, such as the size of your sofa, the type of fabric, and your location. On average, the cost ranges from $100 to $250 for a traditional or vintage sofa.

Our recommendation for a vintage sofa cleaning would be UltimoCleaning. They specialize in steaming of upholstery, which would be more suitable for delicate or old fabrics that vintage sofas have. Do check them out!

Photo by MegaFurniture

Recliner Sofa

A reclining sofa is a versatile and comfortable piece of furniture that offers the option to recline, providing enhanced relaxation and support. These sofas are designed with built-in mechanisms that allow users to adjust the angle of the backrest and sometimes the footrest as well. Reclining sofas come in various materials, such as leather, fabric, and faux leather, each with its unique cleaning requirements. In this section, we will discuss how to clean a reclining sofa yourself, the approach a professional sofa cleaner takes, and the associated costs.

Cleaning a Reclining Sofa Yourself:

1. Preparation: Begin by removing any loose items like cushions or throw blankets from the sofa. If possible, extend the reclining mechanism to expose areas that may have accumulated dirt or debris.
   
   
2. Dusting: Use a microfiber cloth or a duster to remove dust from the surface of the sofa, paying attention to crevices, seams, and areas around the reclining mechanism. This step helps to prevent dirt from being spread during the cleaning process.
   
   
3. Cleaning Leather or Faux Leather: For leather or faux leather reclining sofas, use a leather cleaner or a mild soap solution (a few drops of mild soap mixed with water). Moisten a clean cloth with the cleaning solution, wring out excess water, and gently wipe down the entire surface of the sofa. Afterward, use a dry cloth to remove any moisture.
   
   
4. Cleaning Fabric Upholstery: For fabric reclining sofas, start by checking the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions or the sofa’s care label. Most fabric recliners can be cleaned with a gentle fabric cleaner or a mild soap solution. Apply the cleaner to a clean cloth and gently wipe down the upholstery, avoiding over-saturation. Use a dry cloth to pat the fabric dry.
   
   
5. Cleaning the Reclining Mechanism: To clean the reclining mechanism, use a small brush or a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to remove any dirt, dust, or debris that may have collected around the moving parts. Apply a small amount of lubricant to the mechanism, if necessary, to ensure smooth operation.

Getting a Professional Sofa Cleaner:

A professional sofa cleaner is equipped with the expertise, tools, and cleaning solutions necessary to handle various types of reclining sofas. The process typically involves the following steps:

1. Assessment: The sofa cleaner will first evaluate the reclining sofa to determine its material and identify any areas that need special attention, such as stains or worn spots.
   
   
2. Pre-treatment: A pre-treatment solution may be applied to stains or heavily soiled areas to help break down dirt and make the cleaning process more effective.
   
   
3. Deep Cleaning: Depending on the material of the reclining sofa, the sofa cleaner will use a suitable deep cleaning method. For fabric upholstery, this may involve hot water extraction or steam cleaning. For leather or faux leather, a specialized cleaning solution may be used, followed by conditioning to maintain the material’s softness and lustre.
   
   
4. Drying and Final Touches: After the deep cleaning process, the sofa cleaner will ensure that the sofa is properly dried, and any lingering odours are neutralized. The reclining mechanism may also be checked and adjusted as needed.
   
   

Cost of Professional Recliner Sofa Cleaning:

The cost of hiring a professional sofa cleaner for a reclining sofa depends on factors such as the sofa’s size, material, and location. On average, the cost ranges from $120 to $280.

Our recommendation for the best recliner sofa cleaning would be BeMiteyClean as they mainly do dry cleaning and steaming which is more advisable for recliner sofas as the base is mainly metal. Heavy wet extraction cleaning might cause the frame to rust. Do check them out!

Photo by BlessBrothers

ChesterField Sofa

A Chesterfield sofa is a timeless and elegant piece of furniture characterized by its deep button-tufting, rolled arms, and low backrest, which are usually the same height. These sofas are often upholstered in rich materials like leather, velvet, or linen and feature nailhead trim and turned wooden legs. Due to their intricate design and luxurious materials, cleaning a Chesterfield sofa requires care and attention to maintain its beauty.

In this section, we will discuss how to clean a Chesterfield sofa yourself, the techniques used by a professional sofa cleaner, and the costs associated with cleaning this classic piece of furniture.

Cleaning a Chesterfield Sofa Yourself:

1. Inspection: Begin by examining the Chesterfield sofa to determine the type of upholstery material and identify any stains, spills, or areas that need special attention.
   
   
2. Tufting and Crevice Cleaning: One of the distinguishing features of a Chesterfield sofa is its deep button-tufting, which can collect dirt and debris. Use a soft brush or a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to gently clean the tufted areas and any other crevices where dust and dirt may accumulate.
   
   
3. Leather Upholstery: If your Chesterfield sofa is upholstered in leather, use a high-quality leather cleaner or a mild soap solution (a few drops of mild soap mixed with water). Dampen a clean, soft cloth with the cleaner, wring out excess water, and gently wipe the entire surface of the sofa. Be sure to clean the tufted areas thoroughly, as dirt may become trapped between the buttons. Once cleaned, use a dry cloth to remove any remaining moisture and apply a leather conditioner to protect and maintain the leather’s suppleness.
   
   
4. Fabric Upholstery: For fabric-upholstered Chesterfield sofas, consult the manufacturer’s care instructions or the sofa’s care label before proceeding. Typically, you can use a gentle fabric cleaner or a mild soap solution to clean the upholstery. Apply the cleaner to a soft cloth and gently wipe the entire surface, taking care to clean the tufted areas and seams. After cleaning, use a clean, dry cloth to pat the fabric dry.
   
   
5. Wood and Nailhead Trim: To clean the wooden legs and nailhead trim, use a soft, dry cloth to remove dust and dirt. If necessary, use a wood-specific cleaner to treat any stains or spills on the wooden parts. For the nailhead trim, a gentle metal cleaner can be used to remove tarnish or discoloration.
   
   

Benefits of Hiring Professional Sofa Cleaner:

When hiring a professional sofa cleaner to clean your Chesterfield sofa, you can expect them to follow a specialized process tailored to the unique features and materials of this classic piece of furniture:

1. Evaluation: The sofa cleaner will first assess the Chesterfield sofa’s upholstery type, condition, and any specific cleaning requirements based on stains or wear.
   
   
2. Pre-treatment: The cleaner will apply a pre-treatment solution to stains or heavily soiled areas, allowing it to work on breaking down dirt and grime.
   
   
3. Thorough Cleaning: The professional sofa cleaner will choose the most appropriate cleaning method for your Chesterfield sofa’s material. This may include steam cleaning or dry cleaning for fabric upholstery and specialized leather cleaning solutions for leather upholstery.
   
   
4. Detailing: The sofa cleaner will pay special attention to the Chesterfield’s tufted areas, crevices, and seams, ensuring that every part of the sofa is thoroughly cleaned.
   
   
5. Finishing Touches: After the cleaning process, the professional sofa cleaner may apply a fabric protector, leather conditioner, or other treatments to protect and maintain the appearance of your Chesterfield sofa.
   
   

Cost of Professional Sofa Cleaning for A Chesterfield Sofa:

The cost of hiring a professional sofa cleaner to clean a Chesterfield sofa depends on various factors, such as the sofa’s size, upholstery material, and geographical location. On average, the cost for cleaning a Chesterfield sofa ranges from $170 to $500.

Our recommendation for a chesterfield sofa cleaner would be CleanCare as most chesterfield sofas are leather. Cleancare has and will always be one of the best leather sofa cleaners having tried their service personally.