How do you get rid of couch smell? Vacuum the whole couch, then sprinkle baking soda over the fabric and cushions, let it sit for at least a few hours (overnight is better), and vacuum it up. Wash removable covers, treat pet accidents with an enzymatic cleaner, and let the sofa air out in fresh air. If the smell is musty, find and fix the moisture, because odors return until the cause is gone.
Learning how to get rid of couch smell is worth it, because a smelly sofa is common. Couches soak up body oils, food crumbs, pet odors and moisture every day. The good news is that most bad odors and stubborn odors can be removed at home with simple supplies, without harsh chemicals. This guide covers how to deodorize a couch safely, based on its fabric.
First, Check the Cleaning Code
Look for the cleaning code on the tag under the cushions. It tells you what's safe to use.
| Code | Meaning |
|---|---|
| W | Water-based cleaners are fine |
| S | Solvent-based cleaners only; avoid water |
| W/S | Either water or solvent cleaners |
| X | Vacuum only; no liquids |
Baking soda and vacuuming are safe for almost every fabric couch. Liquids, vinegar and steam cleaning are only for fabrics that allow water.
What Causes Couch Smells?
- Body oils and sweat build up in arms, headrests and seat cushions.
- Food crumbs and spills hide in seams and under cushions.
- Pet odors and pet accidents soak into foam.
- Moisture causes a musty smell and can lead to mold and mildew growth.
- Smoke clings to fabric and foam.
- New furniture can have a factory smell for a while.
How to Deodorize a Couch Step by Step
- Remove cushions and throw pillows. Shake them outside if you can.
- Vacuum thoroughly. Use your vacuum cleaner's upholstery attachment on every surface, seams and the base. Crumbs and pet hair hold odors.
- Wash what you can. If the cushion covers are removable and washable, follow the care label.
- Sprinkle baking soda. Cover the fabric with a light, even layer, working it in gently with a soft brush.
- Let it sit. Leave it for several hours, or overnight for stubborn smells. Baking soda works by absorbing odors rather than masking them.
- Vacuum it up. Go slowly so you remove all of it.
- Air it out. Open windows for air flow. Sunlight helps too, but limit direct sunlight, which fades fabric.
Other Odor Removers
White vinegar
For W or W/S fabrics, lightly mist a mix of equal parts white vinegar and water from a spray bottle. Don't soak the fabric. The vinegar smell fades as the vinegar evaporates, taking other odors with it. Test on a hidden area first.
Enzymatic cleaner
This is the best choice for pet accidents and other organic odors, because enzymes break down the odor causing residue instead of masking it. Follow the label, and let the area dry completely.
Activated charcoal
Bags of activated charcoal placed on or under the sofa slowly absorb odors. They're useful for lingering odors in a closed room.
Fabric sprays
Fabric fresheners such as Febreze Fabric are designed for upholstered furniture. They help with light odors, but they won't fix a deep source like a pet accident. Test first.
Steam cleaning
Steam can lift odors from W-code fabrics, but it adds moisture. Make sure the couch can dry completely afterward, or you risk a musty smell. For delicate or S-code fabrics, call a professional cleaning service.
How to Fix Specific Smells
- Pet odors: Enzymatic cleaner on accidents, baking soda overall, and washable throws. Our guide on removing pet hair also helps, since fur holds odor.
- Musty smell: Dry the room with fresh air or a dehumidifier, then deodorize. Visible mold on foam usually means the cushion needs replacing.
- Smoke: Repeat baking soda treatments, wash covers, and use air purifiers. Avoid smoking indoors to stop the buildup.
- Body odor: Clean the arms and headrests with a fabric-safe cleaner more often.
- New sofa smell: Unwrap it as soon as it arrives and keep the room ventilated. The smell usually fades over time.
Natural Deodorizer Options
- Baking soda with a few drops of essential oils: Mix before sprinkling for a light scent. Skip essential oils if you have cats or dogs, as some oils can be harmful to pets.
- Sunlight and fresh air: Cushions placed in indirect sunlight for a few hours freshen naturally.
- Vodka spray: Some people use a light mist of plain, cheap vodka on W-code fabric. It evaporates quickly and can help neutralize odors. Test first.
Leather and Faux Leather Couches
Don't use baking soda or vinegar sprays on leather. Wipe it with a leather cleaner, then condition it. See how to clean a leather couch for the full method.
How to Keep a Sofa Smelling Fresh
- Vacuum weekly, including under the cushions.
- Flip and rotate cushions so they air out.
- Use washable throws and sofa covers if you have pets or kids.
- Clean spills right away.
- Keep the room ventilated to prevent moisture buildup, and run an air purifier if needed. Regular cleaning also reduces dust mites.
- Consider fabric protectors on new upholstery to make spills easier to clean.
Follow the maker's care label. For example, Homsee's Freya Curved Sofa calls for regular vacuuming with a soft brush attachment and spot cleaning with a slightly damp cloth and mild cleaner, without soaking the upholstery. For a full fabric-by-fabric guide, see how to clean a couch.
Related: see our guide to cleaning a microfiber couch and guide to removing musty smells from furniture.
FAQ
How long should I leave baking soda on a couch?
At least a few hours, and overnight for stubborn smells. Then vacuum it all up.
Is baking soda harsh on fabric?
No, it's gentle on most upholstery. Test dark fabrics first, and vacuum thoroughly so no residue is left.
Can I spray Febreze on my couch?
Fabric versions are made for upholstery. Test a hidden area first, and remember it covers light odors rather than removing the cause.
Will steaming a couch remove odors?
It can, on fabrics that allow water. Let the couch dry completely afterward.
How long does new sofa smell take to go away?
It varies by material. Good ventilation helps it fade faster.
What is the best odor eliminator for couches?
Baking soda for general odors, and an enzymatic cleaner for pet accidents and other organic stains.
Related: How to clean a couch · How to clean a leather couch · Best sofa fabric · How to fix sagging couch cushions