Your couch does a lot. Movie nights, Sunday naps, the spot the dog definitely isn't allowed on. This sofa care guide covers the simple habits that keep a fabric sofa looking good for longer, plus what to do when life gets messy.
Quick answer: how do you care for a fabric sofa?
Vacuum it gently once a week, plump and rotate the cushions, and wipe everyday marks with a clean cloth. Blot spills straight away instead of rubbing. Keep it out of strong direct sun and away from heaters, and always follow the care instructions for your specific sofa.
How often should you clean your sofa?
A light clean once a week is enough for most homes. Here's the 5-minute routine:
- Gentle vacuum. Use a soft brush attachment on a low setting to lift dust, crumbs and hair. Get into the gaps between cushions too.
- Plump the cushions. A quick shake and fluff helps them keep their shape.
- Rotate seats. If your cushions move, swap them around every few months so one spot doesn't take all the wear.
- Wipe with a clean cloth. A dry or lightly damp clean cloth is all you need for everyday marks.
How do you clean a spill on a fabric couch?
Blot it straight away with a clean, dry cloth and never rub. Here's the step-by-step:
- Act fast. The sooner you get to it, the better.
- Blot, don't rub. Gently press a clean, dry cloth onto the spill to soak it up. Rubbing can spread it and push it further into the fabric.
- Work from the outside in. This stops the mark from getting bigger.
- Keep it simple. Stick to a clean cloth. Skip household sprays, bleach, harsh chemicals and anything abrasive, as these can damage or discolour upholstery.
- Not sure? Ask us. If a mark won't budge, get in touch with our team before trying anything else.
Can you use cleaning products on a sofa?
We recommend sticking to a clean cloth. Household sprays, bleach and harsh chemicals can damage or discolour upholstery fabric. If you're unsure about a mark, contact our team first.
Where should you put your sofa?
Somewhere indoors, out of strong direct sun and away from heat.
- Watch the sun. Strong Aussie sun can fade fabric over time. Sheer curtains or blinds during the hottest part of the day help a lot.
- Keep it away from heat. Give heaters, fireplaces and air con vents some breathing room.
- Keep it inside. Indoor sofas are made for indoor living, so leave the patio to outdoor furniture.
How do you look after a modular sofa?
Keep the modules securely connected and lift them rather than drag them. Our Emery and Tully sofas are both modular, available as 2, 3 and 4 seaters, which makes them easy to move and reconfigure. To keep them at their best:
- Check the connections. Every so often, make sure each module is sitting flush and securely joined, especially after moving or vacuuming underneath.
- Lift, don't drag. When rearranging, lift each module rather than pushing it across the floor. It's kinder to your sofa and your floors.
- Separate before moving. Moving house or rooms? Disconnect the modules and move them one at a time.
How do you protect a sofa from kids and pets?
Use a washable throw, keep sharp things clear and deal with hair between vacuums.
- Throw down a throw. Pop a washable throw on your pet's favourite spot. It's easier to wash a throw than clean a whole couch.
- Pet hair hack. A slightly damp rubber glove run over the fabric picks up hair between vacuums.
- Keep sharp things clear. Pet claws, buckles, zips and hard-edged toys can snag fabric.
Sofa care checklist
- Weekly: gentle vacuum, plump cushions
- As needed: blot spills with a clean cloth
- Every few months: rotate cushions, check module connections, check for sun exposure
- Always: follow your product's care instructions
Sofa care FAQs
Is a sofa the same as a couch?
Yes. In Australia, sofa, couch and lounge are used interchangeably. The same care tips apply whatever you call it.
How do I stop my sofa from fading?
Limit direct sunlight with sheer curtains or blinds, especially in the middle of the day.
How do I get pet hair off a fabric couch?
Vacuum gently with a soft brush attachment, and between vacuums run a slightly damp rubber glove over the fabric.
Where can I find the care instructions for my Cooper & Co. sofa?
Care instructions are listed under "Specifications, Assembly & Care" on each product page. If you have questions, contact our team.
Find your next favourite sofa
Looking for a sofa made for real life? Shop the Emery sofa range, the Tully sofa range or the full sofa collection. Want to try before you buy? Come and sit on them in person at our Heatherton showroom in Melbourne.
Still deciding? Read more about Emery, our everyday sofa and the Tully sofa.
