It’s seen movie nights, Sunday naps, and perhaps even a few toddler acrobatics. Your favourite fabric sofa has certainly earned its place in the living room—but it’s probably looking a bit worse for wear. Rather than hide the stains under a throw or pretend the dullness is “vintage charm”, why not give it a proper refresh? With a bit of bicarbonate of soda, you can bring your sofa back to life—naturally, affordably, and without any harsh chemicals.
Why bicarbonate of soda works wonders on fabric
Before you reach for pricey upholstery cleaners, consider this: bicarbonate of soda (or baking soda, for those across the pond) is not only budget-friendly but also surprisingly effective. It cleans, deodorises, and even helps to repel dust mites and insects, all without posing a risk to children, pets, or your sofa’s wooden legs.
It’s a dry-cleaning method in disguise—gentle yet efficient, and safe for almost every type of upholstery. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to remove once it’s done its job.
Gather your cleaning essentials
Here’s what you’ll need to get started:
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A generous amount of bicarbonate of soda (look in the baking aisle)
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A soft-bristled brush
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A vacuum cleaner
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A clean cloth or two
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Optional: a plastic container and cling film if you’re doing a full pre-soak germination-style treatment
No need for any fancy equipment. Once you’ve assembled your cleaning kit, you’re ready to tackle those tired cushions.
Prep the sofa like a pro
Start by giving the entire sofa a thorough vacuum. Focus on the seams, corners, and under the cushions—crumbs, dust, and pet hair love to hide there. Don’t scrub too hard, especially on delicate fabrics.
If you’re unsure whether your upholstery will respond well to bicarbonate, test a small, hidden area first. Wait a few hours and check for any discolouration or fabric changes. If all looks well, you’re good to go.
The bicarbonate method: step by step
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Sprinkle a generous layer of bicarbonate of soda over the entire sofa.
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Use your soft brush to gently work it into the fibres.
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Leave it to sit overnight (or at least a few hours).
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Vacuum thoroughly to remove all residue.
This process helps lift embedded dirt, reduce odours, and refresh the fabric without moisture.
For stubborn stains, make a paste
If a few pesky stains survive the initial cleanse, try this trick:
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Mix bicarbonate of soda with a bit of water to form a thick paste.
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Apply the paste directly onto the stain.
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Leave it to dry, then gently brush or vacuum off the residue.
For spot treatments, you can also dampen the stained area first, sprinkle on bicarbonate, and let it sit before wiping clean.
Banish odours naturally
Fabric sofas are notorious for soaking up smells—from wet dog to takeaway curry. Luckily, bicarbonate of soda is a natural odour neutraliser. Just dust it across the surface, rub it in lightly, and let it sit for several hours before vacuuming. You’ll be amazed at how fresh your room smells afterward.
Final tips for sofa care
Once your sofa is sparkling clean and smelling lovely, keep it that way with regular maintenance:
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Vacuum weekly
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Spot-clean any spills immediately
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Rotate and fluff the cushions
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Consider a light monthly dusting of bicarbonate for ongoing freshness
And don’t throw away any leftover powder—bicarbonate of soda is a household hero. Use it to deodorise carpets, freshen up your mattress, clean pet bedding, or even brighten your laundry.
