How to Remove Stains from a Couch: Simple Tricks That Actually Work

Your couch is the heart of your living room — the spot for coffee mornings, movie nights, and the occasional snack spill. But even the coziest sofa can lose its charm when stains appear. Whether it’s coffee, wine, ink, or pet accidents, you can bring your couch back to life with the right approach.

Here’s your complete guide on how to remove stains from a couch — with step-by-step cleaning methods for every type of fabric and spill, plus a quick reference checklist for easy action.

Simple Tricks to Remove Couch Stains — No Harsh Cleaners Needed!

You don’t need pricey or chemical-heavy cleaners to make your couch spotless again. With a few pantry staples and gentle techniques, you can lift even the toughest stains without damaging the fabric. These natural and affordable tricks not only clean effectively but also keep your home free from harsh fumes.

Step 1: Identify the Fabric Type

Before you reach for any cleaner, check the care tag on your couch cushions. Most have a cleaning code:

W: Water-based cleaner safe
S: Solvent-based cleaner only
WS: Either water or solvent-based
X: Vacuum only (no liquid cleaners)

Knowing your fabric type helps prevent damage or discoloration while cleaning.

Step 2: Start with a General Cleaning

Before tackling stains, always vacuum your couch to remove crumbs, dust, and pet hair. This prevents dirt from spreading or grinding deeper into the fibers during spot cleaning.

Then, gently blot (not rub) the stained area with a dry, clean cloth to absorb as much as possible before applying any cleaner.

Step 3: Choose Your Cleaner Based on Stain Type

Different stains require different cleaning methods. Here’s what works best for each kind:

1. Food & Beverage Stains (Coffee, Soda, Juice)

Mix 1 cup warm water + 1 tsp mild dish soap + 1 tsp white vinegar.
Dampen a clean cloth with the solution and gently blot the stain.
Rinse with a cloth dipped in plain water, then blot dry.

If your fabric is “S” labeled, use a dry-cleaning solvent instead of water.

2. Grease or Oil Stains

Sprinkle baking soda or cornstarch over the spot and let it sit for 15–20 minutes to absorb oil.
Vacuum it up, then dab with a bit of rubbing alcohol or a solvent cleaner using a clean cloth.

This trick works great for fabric, microfiber, and even suede couches.

3. Red Wine or Juice Stains

Immediately blot the spill — don’t rub.
Mix 2 parts hydrogen peroxide + 1 part dish soap.
Apply gently with a soft cloth, let sit for 5–10 minutes, and blot dry.
Rinse with plain water afterward.

Always test this mix on a hidden area first, as peroxide can slightly lighten dark fabrics.

4. Pet Stains (Urine or Odor)

Mix 1 cup white vinegar + 1 cup water + 2 tbsp baking soda in a spray bottle.
Spray the affected area lightly, wait 10 minutes, and blot dry.
For strong odors, sprinkle dry baking soda afterward, let sit overnight, and vacuum it off in the morning.

This removes both stain and odor without leaving residue.

5. Ink or Marker Stains

Dab (don’t rub) with rubbing alcohol using a cotton ball or clean cloth.
Move from the outside of the stain inward to prevent spreading.
Rinse with water afterward and blot dry.

Avoid using hairspray — it used to work years ago, but modern formulas contain oils that make stains worse.

Step 4: Deep Clean for Overall Freshness

Once stains are removed, you can give your couch a full refresh:

Fabric or microfiber: Use a steam cleaner or upholstery cleaner with a fabric-safe formula.
Leather: Wipe with a mix of equal parts vinegar and water, then apply a leather conditioner.
Velvet or suede: Use a suede brush to lift the nap and restore texture after drying.

Always let your couch air dry completely before sitting to prevent new stains or mold growth.

Step 5: Prevent Future Stains

Use washable slipcovers or throws on high-traffic areas.
Apply a fabric protector spray (like Scotchgard) once clean and dry.
Wipe spills immediately before they set.
Vacuum weekly to prevent dust buildup.

A few preventive habits can save hours of cleaning later.

Quick Grab Stain-Removal Kit

Keep these handy items in one basket so you’re always ready for a spill:

☐ White vinegar
☐ Mild dish soap
☐ Baking soda
☐ Rubbing alcohol
☐ Hydrogen peroxide
☐ Spray bottle
☐ Microfiber cloths
☐ Soft brush or vacuum nozzle

Having this small kit nearby turns any potential stain disaster into a quick fix.

Pro Tips for Long-Lasting Cleanliness

Always blot, never rub — rubbing spreads stains deeper.
Work in small sections to avoid soaking fabric.
Test first — always try any cleaner on a hidden spot.
Use distilled water if your area has hard water (prevents residue rings).

Final Thought: Keep Your Couch Looking Like New

With the right approach, even stubborn stains don’t stand a chance. From wine to ink to muddy paws, these simple at-home methods keep your couch fresh, inviting, and spotless — without expensive professional cleaning.