Healthy and Green Living

When I bought a couch a few years ago, I refused the stain guard because I knew that the chemicals involved harmed the ozone layer of the earth, and if they did that, what would they do to me and my family?

But, of course, real life isn’t perfect, and our couches get very hard work as a first rate r&r destination for kids, dogs, and watching movies with snacks.

Here are the five techniques I use to keep my couch clean and even remove stains, in a safe, nontoxic way:

1. Whipped Detergent
I like the foamy aspect of this formula so much, it is always my first
choice. The whipped detergent disperses the cleaning agent around so
that no part of the upholstery gets it too thickly. I like to dip a
gentle brush into this formula, scrub the upholstery, and then rinse
using the brush.

Equal amounts of water and liquid detergent (note to never use laundry
detergent)

Mix with a hand mixer until frothy. Scoop the froth onto a sponge, brush, or rag, and scrub into the stains. Rinse.

2. Vacuum and Softly Brush Weekly
As much as I resist this step, it is important to vacuum the cushions
and backs every week. Use a soft brush to remove loose soil.

3. Water Cleaner

Use cool water for nongreasy soil. Note that heat sets most stains, but
that you need warm or hot water for greasy stains. Just use sparingly.

4. Shampoo Cleaner
Mix with water and agitate. Dab onto a sponge or brush, and use on greasy stains.

5. 3 Percent Hydrogen Peroxide

Dab on stain, don’t rinse. Repeat until stain is gone. (Spot test.)