The fear of stains is one reason why most of us just stick to dark colored couches. So, instead of giving up on the fabric couch of your dreams for fear of stains, you can have these handy couch stain removal tips at the back of your mind.

With these 5 fabric couch stain removal tips, we’ll help you tackle those annoying but common stains without the use of professionals.

• Knowing the cleaning codes

While some couches might come with cleaning codes, some may not. The codes help you know the methods to clean the couch with, at a first glance. If you don’t find the codes, you can do a cleaning test on small area first. The codes will look like these:

S means dry solvent cleaning only

SW means dry solvent and wet cleaning are both appropriate

X means professional cleaning or vacuuming only

• Greasy Stains

The idea is to soak up as much oil out of the stain as possible. You can spread a baking soda paste (baking soda and water) on the stained spot for about 10 minutes. Then, put a bit of soap on soft cloth and scrub. Don’t forget to blot it clean with a moist towel afterwards.

• Wine stains

Put some clean water on the spot then blot it out with a clean cloth. (Water helps to lift the stain by diluting it)

If the stain has been there for a while, you can instead, mix vinegar and detergent in cold water to form a solution, then dab the affected area with it. Blot with clean water afterwards.

• Beer and coffee stain

Rub the stain with an ice cube, then mix just a little liquid with warm water and use to blot at the stain with a paper towel. 

Handling coffee stains has a similar process but you can skip the ice cube step, going straight to the detergent.

• Ink Stains

Pour a little bit of rubbing alcohol on the stain, and then blot at the stain starting at the edges and moving inward. A dry-cleaning solvent can also work. However, try not to rub the stain — that can spread it further.

Now that the couch of your dreams is one stain removal tip away, here are ways to make your guests feel welcome in your home.

This article is part of the HOGDigest editorial series.
Originally written by [Agoha Bertha-Bella] and republished with permission.

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