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To remove odor from a leather couch, let's focus first on what not to do.

A quick Google search may suggest using vinegar to do the job—don't. The acid will dry out anything made of leather. A better DIY option is to sprinkle a little baking soda on your sofa and let it rest for a few hours. Afterward, vacuum it up with a soft-attachment brush. You can also try airing your sofa by opening windows or leaving it outside for a few hours in a clean, dry space.

It’s not necessary to tip an upholstery cleaner, and it’s usually not expected by the professionals in the industry. However, tipping between 10% and 20% of your total cleaning cost is a nice gesture and a good way to show your appreciation. You might consider tipping if the cleaner gets a particularly stubborn stain out without damaging the material, or if they go above and beyond to clean an antique piece of furniture using special methods to keep your furniture safe from damage.

How often you should clean your dining room carpet depends on how much foot traffic and spillage your home experiences. At the very least, you should vacuum once or twice a week to remove surface debris before it can become embedded in the carpet fibers. Hire a pro for deep cleaning every 12 to 18 months to maintain freshness while prolonging the carpet's life span.

You should avoid using a pressure washer on any surface or item that could be damaged by the high-pressure spray, as some materials are too delicate to withstand the force.

Key items and surfaces to avoid include:

• Electrical Components: Never pressure wash electrical systems, as water can cause short-circuits and create a safety hazard. This includes utility meters, breaker boxes, electrical outlets, generators, and HVAC or air conditioner units.

• Delicate and Fragile Materials: Fragile items can crack, shatter, or be stripped by the pressure. Avoid pressure washing windows, glass, light fixtures, shingled roofs (especially asphalt), and stucco.

• Painted, Stained, or Sealed Surfaces: Unless your goal is to strip the finish, do not pressure wash painted surfaces, stained wood (like decks), or anything with a protective seal that could be stripped away. Be especially cautious with older surfaces that may contain lead paint.

• Soft Woods and Certain Decking: Delicate surfaces like softwood, composite decking, and antique or wooden patio furniture can be etched or damaged. If you must wash wood, use a lower-powered pressure washer with a wide-angle nozzle to prevent damage.

• Living Things: Never use a pressure washer on people, pets, or plants. The force can cause serious injury and will destroy landscaping.