Moving into a furnished house can be charming. It’s convenient and cost-effective, plus it’s nice to find a place already set up. You skip trips to furniture stores and avoid building shelves at midnight. However, when you sit on a sofa you didn’t choose, you might wonder about its history. Who sat there before you? What has lived in the cushions? Is the fabric really clean, or does it just look clean?
This is where good hygiene becomes important. Whether you are renting for a short time or planning to stay for a year, it’s natural to want your space to feel clean, safe, and like your own. Even beautiful furniture can hide secrets. Dust, allergens, bacteria, and pet dander can be present. It’s not about being overly cautious. It’s about feeling comfortable and at ease in your new home.
And if residential moving companies helped carry that furniture through the door, it’s worth making sure what came in also gets a fresh start. You don’t need to go full hazmat mode to sanitize your space. A few easy tools, quick steps, and a solid plan can help you feel great about sitting down, stretching out, or inviting friends over for movie night.
How to Freshen Up That Shared Sofa and Clean Your Space
1. Start with a Visual Inspection
Look Beyond the Surface
Before you grab the cleaning supplies, take a few minutes to inspect the furniture. Check under the cushions, along the seams, and underneath the piece. Look for signs of stains, sagging, or general wear. Do you see any crumbs, pet hair, or mystery smudges? These details can help you understand how much cleaning the piece needs.
Check for Pests
Don’t panic, but take a careful look for signs of pests. Check for small black spots, such as droppings, reddish-brown streaks, or tiny shells, which might mean you have bed bugs. Look in corners, fabric folds, and along seams where pests like to hide. Usually, everything is fine, but it’s better to find any problems now rather than later.
2. Vacuum Like You Mean It
Go Deep with Attachments
A handheld or upright vacuum with an upholstery attachment is very helpful for cleaning. Use it on all fabric surfaces, including seats, backs, armrests, and seams. These spots collect more dust, crumbs, and pet hair than you might think. Move slowly and carefully—don’t just do a quick pass.
Don’t Skip the Crevices
Use your crevice tool to clean hard-to-reach areas between cushions and along edges where dust collects. You might find old receipts, snack crumbs, and other items. The more thorough you are while vacuuming, the easier your deep cleaning will be later.
3. Steam Clean for a Fresh Start
Rent or Buy a Steam Cleaner
Steam is a natural, chemical-free way to sanitize fabric. It kills bacteria, freshens fabric, and lifts light stains. If you don’t own one, you can rent a professional-grade steam cleaner for a day from most hardware stores or invest in a portable one for long-term use.
Test a Small Spot First
Steam cleaning can darken or wrinkle some fabrics. Always test on a discreet area first. If the fabric handles it well and dries evenly, move forward confidently.
Use Distilled Water
Using distilled water prevents mineral deposits and stains from tap water. This choice helps your steam cleaner last longer. After steaming, let your sofa dry completely before sitting on it. Open windows or use a fan to speed up the drying process.
4. Use Fabric-Safe Disinfectants
Try a Light Mist, Not a Soak
Disinfecting sprays like Lysol or Dettol can reduce bacteria on fabric surfaces. Use a light mist; don’t soak the surface. Allow the couch to dry completely before using it. Pay special attention to high-touch areas like armrests, seat cushions, and headrests.
Use Natural Alternatives if Sensitive
If you prefer a gentler route, mix equal parts white vinegar and water, add a few drops of essential oil (lavender, lemon, or eucalyptus), and lightly spray the couch. Vinegar kills bacteria naturally, and essential oils help with odors.
5. Neutralize Odors, Don’t Just Mask Them
Sprinkle Baking Soda and Wait
Baking soda is a natural deodorizer. Sprinkle it generously over the cushions and seat areas and let it sit for 30–60 minutes. It absorbs odors trapped in the fabric. Afterward, vacuum thoroughly to remove the powder and any lingering particles.
Add a Fabric Freshener After Cleaning
Once odors are gone, lightly mist the couch with a linen spray or fabric refresher. Choose a calming scent like lavender or eucalyptus to add comfort and make the room feel clean and welcoming.
6. Wash What You Can
Removable Covers? Into the Wash They Go
Check for removable cushion covers. If they unzip and are machine washable, toss them in with cold water on a gentle cycle. Use mild detergent and hang them to dry to avoid shrinking. It makes a huge difference in freshness and peace of mind.
Wash Throw Pillows and Blankets Too
To start fresh after moving in, wash your decorative pillows, even if you brought your own. Many pillows have removable covers that you can wash separately. If the covers don’t come off, check the care tag. Some pillows can be washed whole or sanitized in the dryer on high heat.
7. Add Couch Covers for Comfort and Protection
Instant Clean Feel
A couch cover is like a fresh start. It quickly hides stains, fabrics, or textures you don’t like. Even if your couch is clean, a cover makes it more comfortable and personalizes your space.
Easy to Wash and Replace
Pick a machine-washable fabric. Many stretch-fit covers are budget-friendly, come in tons of colors, and are easy to remove and wash regularly. Bonus: they also protect the sofa from new wear and tear while you’re living there.
8. Address Hard Surfaces and Legs
Wipe Down Wood and Metal
Sofas often have wooden or metal legs, armrests, or frames that collect dust, especially underneath or behind the couch. To clean them, use a gentle all-purpose cleaner and a microfiber cloth. Pay special attention to the corners where dust bunnies can hide.
Check for Wobbling or Loose Screws
While you clean, look for loose screws or wobbly legs on the furniture. Tightening them with a screwdriver can make your seating feel more stable. If anything feels unstable, let your landlord know, especially if it was already like that when you moved in.
9. Use a Fabric Sanitizing Spray Regularly
Weekly Maintenance
Keep a bottle of fabric-safe sanitizing spray nearby for regular upkeep. A quick spray after vacuuming or before guests arrive keeps your furniture feeling fresh.
Great Between Deep Cleans
If you don’t have time for a full cleaning every week, this is a fast way to maintain hygiene without the heavy lifting. Spray, let it dry, and relax.
10. Create a Routine You Can Actually Keep
Once-a-Month Deep Clean
Mark it on your calendar. Clean the sofa once a month: vacuum it, spray it, steam it, and wash any removable parts. Doing this regularly makes it easier and keeps your home feeling fresh every time.
Quick Weekly Touch-Ups
Between deep cleans, do 10-minute refreshers. Wipe crumbs, vacuum pet hair, or give a light spray. It’s low effort, but it keeps buildup in check and the vibes high.
Are You Looking for Trusted Residential Moving Companies?
Just because you didn’t choose the furniture doesn’t mean you can’t love it or feel good about it. With a few simple cleaning routines, your pre-loved sofa can become your sofa. Clean, fresh, and fully part of your new home.
Pink Zebra Moving makes your move simple and stress-free. Whether you are moving into a furnished house or bringing your own furniture across town, their friendly movers will take care of your belongings. You can expect a smooth transition without any chaos. Contact us today!