Keeping your couch fresh and clean is essential for a comfortable and inviting living space. Over time, couches can absorb odors from pets, food, smoke, and everyday use. While regular vacuuming helps, sometimes a deeper refresh is needed. One natural, low-cost, and reliable solution is using baking soda. This household staple is a powerful smell absorber that can help eliminate unwanted smells from your couch without harsh chemicals.
Start by removing any cushions or throw pillows. Vacuum the entire surface of the couch thoroughly, including crevices and seams, to get rid of dust, crumbs, and pet hair. This step ensures that the baking soda can work right against the surface rather than sitting on top of debris.
Next, spread baking soda across the surface in a consistent layer over the entire couch. Pay extra attention to high-odor zones, like seating surfaces and between cushions. If you have a large couch, work in sections to make sure you cover everything evenly. For a light scent boost, you can mix a few drops of essential oil like lavender or eucalyptus into the baking soda before applying it, but this is optional.
Let the baking soda sit for at least 30 minutes. For stronger odors, keeping it on for 8–12 hours deeply deodorizes. During this time, the baking soda absorbs moisture and neutralizes odor-causing particles deep within the fabric.
Once the waiting period is over, re-clean the surface with a strong suction tool. Make sure to go over each area multiple times to remove all traces of baking soda. A soft brush attachment can improve pickup. After vacuuming, your couch should feel fresher and smell noticeably cleaner.
Baking soda is safe for most fabric types, but if you're unsure, check for reactions on a discreet section. It’s also a great option for households with kids or pets, since it’s free from harmful chemicals and safe for all.
Using baking soda to freshen your couch is an effective and eco-conscious AC cleaning habit. Incorporating this simple routine every few months can maintain a pleasant atmosphere and preserve your sofa. With just a few minutes of effort, you can enjoy a cleaner, more pleasant space without spending a lot of money or using strong chemicals.