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Yes, steam cleaning can be an effective way to clean a couch, but whether it's recommended depends on the upholstery material. It is possible to steam clean some couches, particularly those made of durable fabrics like cotton or polyester. However, not all materials handle heat and moisture well; delicate fabrics such as silk and rayon should only be dry-cleaned to avoid damage.

Before you begin, always double-check your couch manufacturer’s cleaning recommendations. If steam cleaning is appropriate for your couch, opt for a gentle steam cleaner designed for fabric rather than a bulky carpet cleaner, and use the gentlest setting to prevent damage to the fabric and foam padding. Like with carpets, you may need to pretreat and spot-clean tougher stains.

While effective, steam cleaners can be expensive to buy or rent. If you are unsure about the material or the process, it's best to call a professional upholstery cleaning service to avoid causing damage.

In addition to having your carpets professionally cleaned, most carpet cleaners offer a range of supplemental services and treatments, including:

• Patching and repairing holes: $100–$250 per hole

• Carpet stretching to remove wrinkles: $60 per hour

• Water extraction: $450–$2,000, depending on square footage

• Pet stain and odor removal: $30–$50 per hour

• Furniture and upholstery cleaning: $50–$80 per item

• Furniture moving and removal: $10–$50 per item

• Padding replacement: $4–$7 per square foot

• Teflon treatment: $20–$40 per project

• Environmentally friendly carpet cleaning: $100–$200 per room

If there is only a small amount of gum, it’s entirely possible to remove it on your own. What you’re unable to pick or scrape off, try to scrub out with warm soapy water. You can try freezing the garment and removing the hardened gum. Some swear by rubbing peanut butter on the gum before washing. No matter which method you choose, do not put your clothing in the dryer until the gum is 100 percent removed. 

The time it takes for a professional to clean upholstery varies. For a single piece of furniture, you can generally expect the process to take between 30 and 60 minutes. However, the duration depends on the item's condition and material. Cleaning small, isolated stains may be quicker, while heavily soiled or delicate antique furniture could take up to three hours. For a room full of furniture, the process might take a couple of hours. Your cleaning expert should be able to provide a more accurate time estimate before they begin.