Ultimate guide to remove stains from your fabric sofa | Factory Street

A halo on a fabric sofa can be a real nightmare. Accidents, spilled drinks or even damp stains, the causes are numerous. Fortunately, there are simple and effective ways to eliminate these annoying marks and keep your sofa spotless. In this article, discover all our tips for removing the stain on a fabric sofa.

1. Identify the origin of the stain

To choose the right cleaning method, it is essential to determine the nature of the stain on your fabric sofa. If you know what caused the halo, move on to the next part. However, if you have no idea about the origin of the brand, here are some clues that might help you:

• Clear halo with a well-defined outline : Usually caused by a liquid, such as coffee or soda.
• Dark and diffuse sign : probably linked to dust or dirt accumulated over time.
• Yellowish or gray spot : rather due to humidity or a mold problem.

2. Prepare the necessary materials

Before you start treating the stain on your fabric sofa, make sure you have all the necessary materials on hand. Here are the different solutions you can use:

• Hot water : this simple and natural method is indicated for recent stains caused by liquids.
• Baking soda : ideal for removing bad odors or yellowish stains caused by humidity.
• Domestic or denatured alcohol (90°) : effective against the most stubborn stains, such as those caused by alcoholic or sugary drinks.
• Clean and soft cloth : it will help you gently clean the surface of the sofa without damaging the fabric.

3. Choose the right method depending on the origin of the stain

Lukewarm water for light and recent stains

To remove a halo caused by a non-greasy liquid (water, tea, coffee), nothing is simpler than using hot water. Start by filling a bowl with warm to hot (but not boiling) water. Lightly dampen a soft, clean cloth in warm water, then gently dab the stain using small circular motions. Be careful not to moisten the fabric too much to avoid creating a new halo around the treated area. If necessary, change the water in the basin regularly (when it becomes dirty). Let it dry naturally.

Baking soda for odors and moisture

Sodium bicarbonate is a precious ally for eliminating stains linked to humidity or bad odors. Here’s how to do it:

1. Sprinkle the stained surface generously with baking soda.
2. Leave it on for at least 2 hours or even overnight if the stain is large or old.
3. Then remove the excess bicarbonate with a soft brush (such as a toothbrush) and then carefully vacuum the treated area.
4. If necessary, repeat the operation until the halo completely disappears.

Household or denatured alcohol for difficult stains

For streaks caused by sugary or alcoholic drinks, you’ll need a more potent solution such as rubbing alcohol or denatured alcohol. Here is the procedure:

1. Pour a little rubbing alcohol onto a clean, lint-free cloth (or directly onto the stain if it’s serious).
2. Gently rub the haloed area with the cloth soaked in alcohol, using circular movements.
3. Repeat the operation until the stain has completely disappeared. Remember to change the cloth and/or alcohol regularly to avoid spreading dirt on the rest of the sofa.
4. Let it air dry.

Of course, these methods are not foolproof and some stains may persist despite your best efforts. In this case, don’t hesitate to call a professional for a deep cleaning of your fabric sofa.