One thing we would recommend knowing is how to clean a sofa bed in the correct way. After all, you know as well as we do that maintaining cleanliness can be challenging with children and/or pets.

To make cleaning your sofa bed easier and maintain your sanity (as well as ours!) - we’ve compiled our sofa bed cleaning top tips below. 

Ready to find a sofa bed that’s stylish, comfortable, and easy to maintain? Explore our luxury sofa beds today. For peace of mind, we also recommend looking into different fabric protection options. 

How to Clean a Sofa Bed

The Deverill Sofa Bed in Cotton, Sea Mist

Keeping your sofa bed clean not only makes it look fresher but can extend its lifespan too. Here’s a straightforward guide on how to clean your sofa bed, from routine maintenance to deeper cleaning tips that cover upholstery, mattress, and storage compartments.

Regular Dusting and Vacuuming

Dust and crumbs can easily fall into the crevices of a sofa bed. Regularly hoovering both the sofa and mattress surfaces prevents buildup and most importantly - keeps it clean. Use a vacuum with an upholstery attachment (if possible) to gently remove dust and debris. Don’t forget to vacuum under the cushions, inside storage compartments, and around the edges of the frame.

Spills

Accidents happen (especially with kids and pets around!), and spot cleaning as soon as a spill occurs helps prevent stains. To clean the parts of your sofa bed which are not removable, we recommend using a dry foam shampoo. 

Follow the instructions closely (often on a label or specified when you buy the sofa bed), and always use a clean brush or cloth when coming into contact with your sofa bed fabric. After all, you don't want to spread the stain further, or worse still, add a new one that wasn't there before! Make sure you always do a test on a small, hidden section of fabric before using it properly.

If spot cleaning doesn't reduce the visibility of the stain entirely, and the fabric is appropriate for hand-washing, try a mild detergent in cool water. Once washed, leave the covers to air dry away from direct sunlight. When they are around 95% dry put them back on the cushions as this will help retain their shape and lifespan.

When buying a brand new sofa or sofa bed, we always recommend a fabric protection plan. For our sofas and sofa beds, we offer a staingard protection plan. This covers them against accidental spills, stains, pet scratches, damage and more for 5 years.

Deodorising and Refreshing

If your sofa bed has developed an unwanted smell, sprinkle a light layer of baking soda over the upholstery and mattress. Let it sit for 15-30 minutes, then vacuum it up.

 Deep Cleaning the Upholstery

For a deeper clean, use a steam cleaner on fabric upholstery if it’s safe according to the specifications. Steam cleaning helps to remove dirt, bacteria, and odours from deep within the fibres. 

Not every fabric is suitable for home cleaning in a washing machine, even at low temperatures. However, if your sofa bed’s fabric is suitable for machine washing, then put the washing machine on a cool and delicate washing cycle with a mild detergent and, once washed, leave the covers to air dry away from direct sunlight. 

Mistakes to Avoid When Cleaning a Sofa Bed

First, it’s best to steer clear of harsh chemicals like bleach-based cleaners or strong solvents, which can fade or damage the upholstery. Instead, using mild, fabric-safe cleaners will help maintain the colour and texture. A quick patch test on a hidden area can save you from unpleasant surprises like discolouration or fabric damage. Skipping this step is one of the biggest cleaning mistakes and can lead to a sofa bed that now looks worse for wear.

It’s also easy to over-wet your sofa bed during cleaning, especially if you’re trying to tackle a stubborn stain. Using too much water can soak through to the cushions and mattress, which can cause mould over time. A gentle approach works best - dampen a cloth rather than soaking it, and use a dry cloth to blot any excess moisture to help prevent mould growth.

How Often Should You Clean Sofa Beds?

We’d recommend cleaning sofa beds at least once a week - although we would strongly recommend cleaning your sofa bed immediately after a spillage/stain - time is of the essence in this situation!

Weekly

Each week, give your sofa bed a quick vacuum, focusing on the upholstery and mattress to remove dust, crumbs, and any debris that may have settled. This routine prevents dust buildup and keeps the fabric fresh, which is especially helpful if the sofa bed is used daily or in a high-traffic area.

Monthly

Once a month, take the time to clean the sofa bed in more detail. Empty and vacuum the storage compartment to prevent dust from accumulating on items such as bedding and pillows. 

If the mattress cover is removable, consider washing it or airing it out to maintain a clean sleeping surface. Regular airing of the mattress also prevents odours and keeps the bed fresh for occasional guests.

Final Thoughts

Keeping your sofa bed clean doesn’t have to be complicated. By following a simple weekly and monthly care routine, you can ensure your sofa bed remains fresh, comfortable, and ready for both lounging and sleep. Weekly vacuuming prevents a dust, crumb and allergen buildup, while a monthly refresh, including airing out the mattress and cleaning storage compartments, keeps everything in top condition. 

Ready to find a sofa bed that fits both your style and practical needs? Explore our collection of sofa beds today!