How to care for your sofa and upholstery the sustainable way

Your sofa and upholstery play a central role in your home, providing comfort and style. Keeping them in top condition doesn’t have to mean resorting to harsh chemicals or unsustainable practices. With a few eco-friendly tips, you can extend the life of your furniture while protecting the environment around you. Here’s how to maintain your upholstery in a sustainable and environmentally friendly way.

1. Vacuum Regularly

Dust, dirt, and crumbs can accumulate in the fibres of your upholstery over time, causing wear and tear. Vacuum your furniture weekly using a soft brush attachment to remove debris. This simple habit prevents dirt from embedding deeper and helps your upholstery look fresh without the need for frequent deep cleaning.

2. Spot Clean Naturally

Spills are inevitable, but reaching for chemical cleaners isn’t always the best solution. Bicarb of soda can help remove odours and draw out stains. Salt and lemon can also help remove stains but be careful of leaving too long due to acid content. Dabbing with water or 1 teaspoon of vinegar and 1 teaspoon of good old washing up liquid mixed with ten parts water can also help remove stains. Gently dab (never rub) the stain with a damp microfibre cloth. Always test on an inconspicuous area first to ensure your fabric won’t be damaged.

3. Invest in Sustainable Fabric Protectors

Many fabric protection sprays are loaded with harmful chemicals. Instead, look for eco-friendly, biodegradable fabric protectors to help guard against spills and stains. These products offer similar benefits without compromising your commitment to sustainability.

4. Rotate Cushions Regularly

To avoid uneven wear and sagging, rotate and flip your cushions regularly. This simple step distributes pressure more evenly, keeping your sofa looking and feeling its best for longer.

5. Steam Cleaning

For a deeper clean, skip the chemical heavy upholstery cleaners and opt for a steam cleaner. Steam cleaning uses only water, making it a sustainable way to refresh your furniture and kill bacteria. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations to avoid damage to delicate fabrics.

6. Use Eco-Friendly Upholstery Cleaners

If you want a shop bought cleaner, choose eco-friendly options free from harmful chemicals. Look for products with green certifications such as the EU Ecolabel, check the product has low levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). VOCs are the toxic chemicals often found in cleaning products, solvents and paint. This will help protect your own health, your furniture, and the environment.

7. Avoid Sun Damage

Direct sunlight can cause fading and weaken upholstery fibres over time. Use curtains or blinds to shield your sofa from prolonged sun exposure or consider sofa covers made from natural, organic or recycled materials to protect the fabric. If the sun cannot be avoided, having furniture you can move will help mitigate the exposure to one area.

8. Repurpose and Refresh Instead of Replacing

When your upholstery starts showing signs of wear, don’t rush to replace it. Repair small tears or holes using repair kits or professional services. For larger updates, consider reupholstering your furniture with sustainable fabrics like cottons, recycled polyesters and velvets or linens (see our blog on fabric choices for more information on different fabrics available). This approach reduces waste and gives your sofa a fresh new look.

9. Use Natural Deodorisers

To keep your sofa smelling fresh opt for natural solutions. Sprinkle bicarb of soda over the upholstery, let it sit for 15–20 minutes, and then vacuum it off. For a light fragrance, add a few drops of essential oil before applying it. Please check the type of essential oils and the manufacturers guide as well as testing on a safe inconspicuous area to ensure no damage to the fabrics.

10. Buy Second-Hand or Eco-Friendly Furniture

When it’s time for a new sofa, consider second-hand furniture or brands that prioritise sustainability. Look for companies that use responsibly sourced materials, low-VOC finishes, and sustainable manufacturing practices.

Final Thoughts

Caring for your sofa and upholstery in a sustainable way not only extends the lifespan but also reduces your impact on the environment. By adopting these eco-friendly practices, you can enjoy a fresher, greener home while keeping your furniture in top condition.

Ready to make your sofa care routine more sustainable? Share your tips and experiences with us, we’d love to hear from you!