A couch isn’t just a place to sit, it’s the heart of your lounge. It’s where you binge-watch your favourite series, host friends for coffee, and sneak in those lazy Sunday naps. But let’s be honest: life happens. Spills, crumbs, and everyday wear can take their toll on your beautiful fabric couch.
The good news? With a few simple care tips, you can keep your couch looking (and feeling) as good as the day you brought it home. Here’s how to protect your investment and enjoy it for years to come.
1. Make Vacuuming Your Best Friend
It’s amazing how much dust and crumbs can hide in the cushions. Give your couch a quick vacuum once a week to remove dirt before it settles into the fabric.
Tip: Use the soft brush attachment so you don’t damage delicate fabrics like velvet or polylinen. And don’t forget to get into those sneaky creases where popcorn kernels love to hide.
2. Fluff and Rotate Your Cushions
Want your couch to keep its shape? Fluffing and rotating the cushions is the secret. This stops certain areas from sagging or getting worn out faster than others.
Tip: If your couch has fixed cushions, just give them a light pat-down and shift your seating spots every now and then.
3. Tackle Spills Immediately
Life’s too short to stress over a little coffee spill, but don’t leave it for “later.” The sooner you clean it, the less chance it has to stain.
For most fabrics:
- Blot (don’t rub!) the spill with a clean cloth.
- Use a mild soap-and-water solution for gentle cleaning.
- Always test your cleaning method on a hidden spot first.
For velvet: Lightly dab with a damp cloth and brush the pile in one direction once it’s dry.
4. Keep the Sun at Bay
The South African sun is no joke. Over time, direct sunlight can fade your couch’s colour and weaken the fabric.
Tip: Position your couch away from direct sunlight, or use sheer curtains/blinds to filter the light.
5. Consider a Fabric Protector
A good fabric protector adds a shield against spills and dirt. Some couches at That Couch Place already come with durable, stain-resistant fabrics, but you can always add an extra layer of protection for peace of mind.
6. Professional TLC Once a Year
Even with regular cleaning, it’s worth getting your couch professionally deep-cleaned once a year. This removes the dirt you can’t see and keeps the fabric fresh and hygienic.
Final Thoughts
Couch care doesn’t have to be a mission; a few minutes each week will keep your lounge looking inviting and stylish. And remember, a well-loved couch lasts much longer when you give it the attention it deserves.
If your current couch has already seen better days, browse our couch collection for stylish, comfortable options made to last in South African homes.