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Steam cleaning a couch should get rid of most smells, but there are some more potent smells that require a bit more work than steam cleaning. For instance, steam cleaning won’t likely get the smell of pee out of a couch. To remove urine odor from a couch, you’ll most likely need to use an enzymatic cleaner, which targets the smell and stain.

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.

Professionals use pH-balanced solutions, fabric protectors, and safe steam cleaning technology for specific fabrics. These products are designed to break down dirt effectively without leaving residues.

If your usually super soft couch feels crusty and rough after cleaning, it could be that you haven’t removed the cleaning product properly, you used too much, or you applied the wrong type. Always check the couch tags to select the right cleaning product, read application instructions carefully, and test on an inconspicuous corner. For fabrics such as microfiber, you can soften and fluff crusty fibers using a soft-bristled brush.