How to Keep Sofas Clean When You Have Pets
With 57% of UK households owning pets—and 95% considering them part of the family—it’s no surprise that our furry friends often join us on the sofa or even in bed. Keeping your sofa clean with pets comes down to three things: act quickly, vacuum regularly, and use the right cleaning products.
With over half of UK households owning pets, muddy paws, pet hair and the occasional accident on the sofa are common. The good news? Pet stains and odours can be removed safely with the correct approach.
- Act quickly when pet stains happen — fresh stains are much easier to remove
- Always blot, never rub, to prevent pushing stains deeper into sofa fibres
- Use enzyme cleaners to properly break down pet urine and eliminate odours.
- Vacuum your sofa weekly to reduce pet hair, dander and lingering smells.
- Try simple DIY solutions like white vinegar or baking soda for minor stains.
- Call professional sofa cleaners for deep-set stains, persistent odours or delicate fabrics.
Why Pet Stains Need Proper Treatment
Pet urine contains proteins and ammonia that soak into upholstery fibres. If not treated correctly, the smell remains even if the stain fades. That’s why wiping the surface is rarely enough.
Act Fast on Pet Stains
Fresh stains are much easier to remove than dried ones.
What to do:
- Blot the area gently — never rub
- Use an undyed microfibre cloth
- Check the care label before applying water
- Use an enzyme cleaner for pet urine
Enzyme cleaners break down the proteins that cause odours, rather than just masking the smell. If the stain is set in or keeps returning, professional sofa cleaning may be needed.
Vacuum Your Sofa Weekly
Vacuuming once a week helps prevent:
- Pet hair build-up
- Dander
- Embedded dirt
- Lingering odours
- Focus on seams, under cushions and crevices.
If your sofa has removable covers, wash them according to the manufacturer’s instructions to avoid shrinkage. According to Better Homes & Gardens- “ideally, you should vacuum your couch once a week”
We also have a blog on how to properly care for your upholstery items.
Simple DIY Cleaning Solutions
You can try:
White vinegar and water
Helps neutralise odours. Spray lightly and blot dry.
Baking soda
Absorbs smells. Leave on the area, then vacuum.
Hydrogen peroxide (diluted) Useful for tougher stains, but always patch test first.
For deep-set dog urine on the couch or repeated accidents, DIY methods may not fully remove the odour source. If your pet has urinated on your carpet, read our guide on how to get urine out of carpet for simple, effective cleaning tips.
When to Call Professional Sofa Cleaners
Professional upholstery cleaning uses specialist extraction equipment to deep clean sofa fibres. This removes stains, bacteria and odour-causing residue from inside the fabric — not just the surface.
It is especially recommended for;
- Cat or dog urine on sofa cushions
- Old pet stains
- Persistent smells
- Delicate fabrics
Pet urine can soak through cushions and into the padding beneath. If this isn’t properly treated, the smell can linger and encourage pets to mark the same spot again.
Professional cleaning breaks down and extracts contamination fully, helping restore freshness and extend the life of your sofa.
If home treatments aren’t working, it may be time for expert help. Our professional upholstery cleaning service removes deep-set pet stains safely and effectively — leaving your sofa clean, fresh and ready for more cuddles.
Book your professional sofa cleaning today by messaging us on whatsapp or calling us on 0800 023 6184