Buying a second-hand sofa can be a smart choice, especially if you’re looking for a high-quality piece at a fraction of the price of buying new. Vintage and pre-loved furniture can add real character to your home, but one common drawback is the smell that sometimes comes with it. Lingering odours—whether from pets, smoke, food, damp, or years of general use—can make even the most stylish sofa feel less inviting. The good news is that with the right cleaning approach, you can refresh your sofa and enjoy it for years to come.
Identify the Source of the Smell
The first step in removing odours is to understand where they’re coming from. Pet smells, for instance, often seep deep into both the upholstery fabric and the inner padding. Smoke smells can become trapped in fibres and last for years without proper cleaning. Musty or damp odours might suggest previous storage in a poorly ventilated area. Knowing the cause will help you choose the most effective cleaning solution.
Start with a Deep Vacuum
Before using any cleaning products, give the sofa a thorough vacuum. Use the upholstery attachment and work across every surface, including under and between the cushions, along seams, and in crevices where dust, crumbs, and hair often collect. This not only removes surface dirt but also helps prevent deeper penetration of debris during cleaning.
Baking Soda: A Simple and Effective Deodoriser
Baking soda is a tried-and-tested way to tackle odours. Sprinkle a generous amount evenly over the sofa and let it sit for several hours—or overnight for strong, embedded smells. Baking soda works by absorbing odours rather than masking them. Once the time is up, vacuum thoroughly to remove the powder and any trapped smells.
Gentle Spot Cleaning for Problem Areas
If certain areas have stronger odours, a targeted clean may help. For a natural solution, mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Lightly mist the affected area and blot with a clean cloth—never saturate the fabric. Always test any solution on a hidden section first to ensure it won’t cause discolouration. For stubborn stains or smells, a mild upholstery cleaning product may be more effective.
The Benefits of Professional Upholstery Cleaning
While home remedies can work for mild odours, deep-set smells often require professional attention. Over time, odours sink into the foam padding beneath the fabric, making them difficult to remove with surface cleaning alone. Professional upholstery cleaning uses advanced machinery and cleaning solutions to extract dirt, bacteria, allergens, and odours from deep within the sofa. This not only refreshes the scent but also improves the sofa’s appearance and lifespan.
Ongoing Care to Keep Your Sofa Fresh
Once your sofa smells clean and fresh, a regular maintenance routine will help keep it that way.
- Vacuum weekly to remove dust and allergens.
- Treat spills and stains immediately to prevent them from setting.
- Use a fabric protector to help guard against future stains and odours.
- In homes with pets or smokers, consider more frequent professional cleans to maintain freshness.
Conclusion
Removing odours from a second-hand sofa takes patience and the right techniques, but the results are worth it. While home methods can help with mild smells, professional upholstery cleaning ensures a deeper, longer-lasting clean. K&S Carpet Cleaning Seaford offers expert services in Seaford, Sussex, specialising in removing stubborn odours and restoring your furniture to a clean, fresh, and inviting condition. If you want your second-hand sofa to look, smell, and feel like new, our team is ready to help.
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