Home | Getting Rid of Smells | How to Get Rid of Smell in Couch or Sofa: Step-by-Step Guide

How to Get Rid of Smell in Couch or Sofa: Step-by-Step Guide

Reviewed by Zac Kieffer

Updated: September 19, 2025

Eliminate couch odors easily with this step-by-step guide. Discover how E-Cloth makes sofa cleaning simple and effective.

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How to Get Rid of Smell in Couch or Sofa

Tools:

- E-Cloth
- Baking soda
- White vinegar
- Vacuum cleaner (with upholstery attachment)
- Spray bottle

Step 1: Prepare the Area

Clear off any cushions or removable covers. If washable, check the cleaning instructions on the label.
Vacuum the couch thoroughly using the upholstery attachment to remove loose dirt and dust.

Step 2: Apply Baking Soda

Sprinkle a generous layer of baking soda over the entire couch, paying special attention to areas that hold pet odors and spills.
Let the baking soda sit for at least 15-20 minutes to absorb the smells.

Step 3: Vacuum Up the Baking Soda

After the waiting period, vacuum the couch again to remove all the baking soda along with trapped odors.

Step 4: Tackle Stubborn Odors

Mix a small amount of white vinegar with water (about a 1:1 ratio) in a spray bottle.
Lightly mist the areas still retaining odor. Avoid soaking the fabric, as too much liquid can cause damage or mildew.
Allow the couch to air dry completely in a well-ventilated space.

Step 5: Final Check

Once dry, give the couch a final vacuum to pick up any residue.
Smell the fabric and repeat the vinegar misting if necessary for persistent odors.

Safety Precautions

Test cleaning solutions (like vinegar and baking soda) on a hidden area first to check for discoloration or fabric damage.
Wear gloves to protect your skin from irritation, especially when handling vinegar or cleaning agents.
Ensure good ventilation by opening windows or using fans when applying vinegar or any cleaning sprays to avoid inhaling fumes.
Do not oversaturate the fabric with liquids—excess moisture can lead to mold or mildew growth.
Keep pets and children away from the area during cleaning and until the couch is completely dry.
Unplug electrical devices near the cleaning area to prevent accidents from spills or moisture.

How to Maintain Cleanliness How to Get Rid of Smell in Couch or Sofa: Extra Tips

Using Baking Soda to Absorb Odors

Sprinkle a generous layer of baking soda over the entire couch, focusing on the areas with noticeable smells.
Let it sit for several hours or overnight, so it can absorb moisture and odors.
Vacuum thoroughly to remove all the baking soda from the cushions and crevices.

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Vacuuming to Remove Dust and Debris

Use a vacuum with an upholstery attachment to gently clean the surface of the couch.
Pay extra attention to seams and under the cushions where dirt and particles tend to accumulate.
Regular vacuuming prevents the buildup of dust that can trap smells.

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Spot Cleaning with Vinegar Solution

Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle.
Test the solution on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure it won’t damage the fabric.
Lightly mist the affected areas and use a clean cloth to gently blot the spot, then let it air dry.

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Maintaining Regular Cleaning Routines

Air out the couch by opening windows or using a fan to circulate fresh air daily.
Schedule routine cleaning sessions to prevent buildup of odors and dirt.
Use fabric fresheners or mild deodorizing sprays occasionally to keep the couch smelling fresh.

Common Mistakes When Cleaning How to Get Rid of Smell in Couch or Sofa

Decluttering Mistakes

Trying to declutter the entire space at once, leading to overwhelm and burnout before the task is finished.
Holding onto items "just in case" rather than making honest decisions about what you truly need or use.
Failing to create organizational systems for remaining items, so clutter quickly accumulates again.

Dusting & Vacuuming Mistakes

Vacuuming before dusting, causing freshly disturbed dust to settle on already clean floors.
Skipping the use of proper dust-catching tools, like microfiber cloths, which can spread dust rather than remove it.
Neglecting high and low areas (like ceiling fans or under furniture), which results in incomplete cleaning.

Deep Cleaning Mistakes

Only deep cleaning when dirt is visible, rather than following a consistent schedule.
Focusing only on surfaces and ignoring hidden or hard-to-reach spots (e.g., behind appliances, inside vents).
Using harsh chemicals without proper ventilation or checking if they’re safe for your surfaces.

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How Often to Clean How to Get Rid of Smell in Couch or Sofa

Monthly Deep Cleaning Frequency

Cleaning your couch or sofa thoroughly about once a month is ideal for keeping odors in check. This schedule helps prevent the gradual buildup of body oils, dust, food particles, and pet dander that together can produce a persistent smell.
If your couch sees heavy use—like lots of family time, frequent visits, or if you have pets—sticking to a monthly deep clean ensures that you remove enough of the grime that regular quick vacuum sessions might miss.
Monthly deep cleaning creates a proactive maintenance routine rather than a reactive one. It’s easier to nip smells in the bud before they strengthen, keeping your space fresh and inviting.

Complement with Regular Spot Cleaning

While a thorough cleaning once a month is essential, incorporating light, spot cleaning and vacuuming on a weekly basis helps to manage minor spills or loosely embedded debris. This not only keeps your sofa looking good in between deep cleans but also prolongs the effectiveness of your monthly routine.
Regular care minimizes the accumulation of substances that contribute to odor over time, making your monthly deep cleaning more efficient and preventing a build-up that might require an even more rigorous process.

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No streaks with just water

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Can smear dirt around

Reduces chemicals & waste, reusable

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