Easy Ways To Clean Foam Couch Cushions (with Pictures) - WikiHow

Skip to ContentQuizzes

• PRO Courses Hot Guides Tech Help Pro Expert Videos About wikiHow Pro Upgrade
• QUIZZES All Quizzes Hot Love Quizzes Personality Quizzes Trivia Quizzes Taylor Swift Quizzes
• EDIT Edit this Article
• EXPLORE Tech Help ProAbout UsRandom ArticleQuizzes Request a New ArticleCommunity DashboardTrendingForums Arts and EntertainmentArtworkBooksMoviesComputers and ElectronicsComputersPhone SkillsTechnology HacksHealthMen's HealthMental HealthWomen's HealthRelationshipsDatingLoveRelationship Issues Hobbies and CraftsCraftsDrawingGamesEducation & CommunicationCommunication SkillsPersonal DevelopmentStudyingPersonal Care and StyleFashionHair CarePersonal Hygiene Quizzes Love Quizzes Personality Quizzes Fun Games ForumsArts and EntertainmentFinance and BusinessHome and Garden Relationship QuizzesCars & Other VehiclesFood and EntertainingPersonal Care and Style Sports and FitnessComputers and ElectronicsHealthPets and Animals TravelEducation & CommunicationHobbies and CraftsPhilosophy and Religion Work WorldFamily LifeHolidays and TraditionsRelationships Youth
• LOG IN

  Log in

  Social login does not work in incognito and private browsers. Please log in with your username or email to continue. Facebook Google wikiHow Account No account yet? Create an account
• RANDOM

• Home
• Random
• Browse Articles
• TrendingNew
• Quizzes & Games
• All QuizzesHot
• Love Quizzes
• Personality Quizzes
• Fun Games
• Dating Simulator
• Learn Something New
• Forums
• Courses
• Happiness Hub
• Explore More
• Support wikiHow
• About wikiHow

• Log in / Sign up

Terms of Use wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. Learn why people trust wikiHow

• Categories
• Home and Garden
• Housekeeping
• Cleaning
• Cleaning Furniture

How to Clean Foam Couch Cushions Download Article Explore this Article methods 1 Spot-Treating Stains 2 Deep-Cleaning Cushions Other Sections Expert Q&A Tips and Warnings Things You'll Need Related Articles References Co-authored by Daniel Olin

Last Updated: January 21, 2025 References

Download Article X

This article was co-authored by Daniel Olin. Daniel Olin is a Home Cleaning Specialist and the CEO of Easyway Maid Service, a home-cleaning company based in Austin, Texas. With over four years of experience, Daniel and Easyway Maid Service specialize in executive-quality maid service, as well as vacation rental cleaning and overall home deep cleaning. Daniel holds a BA in Psychology from The University of California, Los Angeles. There are 11 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been viewed 100,498 times.

Foam is used to make all sorts of cushions, including most couch cushions. Although foam cushions are soft and durable, their size and shape can make cleaning seem more difficult than it is. Generally, cushions are easy to treat with upholstery cleaners, soap and water, and even some basic supplies from your pantry. When your cushion needs some extra attention, give it a deeper cleaning instead. Clean cushions look better, smell better, and serve as a comforting part of your home for longer.

Quick Guide: Spot Treating Foam Cushion Stains

Blot the stain and remove the cushion cover (if applicable) to wash separately. Brush or vacuum any debris, then dab at the spot with dish soap and warm water with a clean sponge. Rinse with a new, damp cloth and air dry completely. Follow up with baking soda if there is a lingering odor.

Steps

Method 1 Method 1 of 2:

Spot-Treating Stains

Download Article

1. 1 Pat the stain gently with a paper towel to absorb it. If you spilled something on your cushion, pat it dry with a paper towel. Take care to avoid rubbing the towel across the stain, since that could push it in deeper. Replace the soiled towel with a fresh one when it becomes saturated. Then, pick up the cushion and brush off any solid debris on it.[1]
   • The best time to tackle stains is always when you first notice them. If you’re able to get to them right away, cleaning the cushion becomes much easier.
   • You can also vacuum cushions to remove solid debris like dirt or dust. Try using an upholstery vacuum to eliminate more debris.
2. 2 Remove the cover to clean it in a washing machine. If the cover is removable, the cushion will usually have a zipper on one side. After unzipping and pulling off the cushion, check its tag. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure that your cover comes out of the wash in one piece. Generally, you can include cushion covers in with your regular laundry. Use a cold wash, low-heat setting to prevent any possible damage.[2]
   • If you’re unable to remove the cover, wash it by hand. You can also hand wash removable covers alongside cushions.
   • On cushion cover tags, a W means you can spot clean with water-based cleaners. S stands for water-free dry cleaning. X is vacuum-only.[3]
   Advertisement
3. 3 Mix a mild dish detergent in warm water to make a soapy cleaner. Try combining about 1⁄2 tablespoon (7.4 mL) of dish detergent with 5 cups (1,200 mL) of water. For safety, choose a detergent without strong chemicals, scents, or anything else out of the ordinary. Your regular dish soap will be fine in most cases. Stir the mixture until it’s consistent and soapy.[4] [5]
   • For example, avoid detergents made to cut through grease, since these ones can be a little too strong. If you don’t have a good dish soap available, use a mild laundry detergent instead.
   • Another option is to use an upholstery cleaner. It works very well on cushion covers, but it can also clean the cushions themselves.
4. 4 Scrub the stain gently with a clean sponge. Dip the sponge into the soapy water to dampen it. Squeeze out any excess water before using it on your cushion. Then, rub the stain in a circle. Use a light touch so you don’t end up forcing the soap or the stain deeper into the cushion.[6]
   • You can let the soap soak in for about 15 minutes before rinsing the pillow.[7]
5. 5 Rinse the soap off with clean, cool water. Rinse off the sponge first, then squeeze out the excess moisture. Scrub the stain in a circle again to pick up some of the soap and any remaining debris. As the sponge gets dirty, rinse it off in clean water again. Continue scrubbing the cushion until the soap is gone.[8]
   • You could also hose the entire cushion down with a garden hose or showerhead for a more thorough cleaning. If you do this, spend some extra time drying off excess moisture with towels before leaving the cushion to dry.
6. 6 Place the cushion in a warm area with good air circulation to dry. Try placing it outdoors or near a window in your home. It doesn’t have to be in direct sunlight, but it should be out in the open. Stand the cushion up as best you can so that both sides dry out at a similar rate. A foam cushion can take 15 minutes or more to dry, but check on it occasionally until it feels completely dry to the touch.[9] [10]
   • Use a hair dryer to dry out the cushion at a faster rate. Hold it at least 6 in (15 cm) away and move it around steadily so it doesn’t damage the cushion.
7. 7 Blot the stained area with vinegar or peroxide if soap doesn’t work. Use more soap and water for a safe way to clean it. If you’re looking for something stronger, try dampening a clean rag in vinegar or even hydrogen peroxide. Blot any stains with the rag, then wash them again with cold water. Scrub them with a scrub brush or an old toothbrush as well.[11]
   • For example, you could mix 1 cup (240 mL) of hydrogen peroxide, 1 teaspoon (4.9 mL) of white vinegar, and 2 tablespoons (28.80 g) of baking soda into a paste. Leave it on the cushion overnight, then wash it off the next day.
   • You may need to clean the cushion several times to remove really tough or old stains and odors.
8. 8 Sprinkle baking soda onto the cushion to eliminate odors. Cover stains completely under a layer of baking soda. Leave the cushion to sit out in an area with good air circulation for at least 2 or 3 hours. Then, come back and vacuum up the baking soda. If you’re having a hard time vacuuming up the last bits of baking soda, shake the cushion or hit it several times to knock the rest off.[12]
   • Baking soda is great for sucking up unpleasant smells, but it can also help absorb tough stains.
   • If you notice strong odors coming from a cushion even after cleaning, wash it and apply baking soda several times.
Advertisement

Method 2 Method 2 of 2:

Deep-Cleaning Cushions

Download Article

1. 1 Fill a bathtub with enough warm water to submerge the cushion. Make sure you’re using a clean bathtub so your cushion doesn’t absorb more debris. If you’re able to get the cushion outdoors, you could also clean it there using a hose. Another option is to set up a small wading pool so you don’t end up with as much of a mess in your home or yard.[13]
   • Cleaning cushions outdoors is great for avoiding messes in your home, but you can get the foam dirtier if you aren’t careful with it.
2. 2 Add about 1⁄4 cup (59 mL) of laundry detergent to the water. Select a mild detergent meant to be used on delicates. This type of detergent won’t have any dyes or fragrances in it that could affect the foam. Spread it around the water as much as you can. Then, reach in and ln and lightly swirl the water around to make it soapy.[14]
   • Mild laundry detergents are sometimes labeled as free and clear. As long as it works on delicate clothing, it will most likely be fine on cushions, too.
3. 3 Press down on the cushion by hand to force water into it. Lower the cushion into the water, submerging it. Push down on the cushion as hard as you can. Start on one end and slowly work your way to the other end to ensure you don’t miss any spots. Pressing down on the cushion causes it to suction up water, rinsing it out.[15]
   • Deal with stubborn stains by scrubbing them out with a scrub brush.
   • If you don’t mind getting your feet wet, you could step on top of the cushion. Press it down with your feet like you’re crushing a bunch of grapes.
   • If you’re unable to compress a cushion or afraid of damaging it this way, apply the soapy water with a sponge, then let the cushion soak for 15 minutes.
4. 4 Drain and refill the tub if it starts to look grimy. This will depend on how dirty the cushion is. If the water looks a little murky, you’re better off taking the time to freshen up. Leave the cushion in the tub while you drain the water. Then, refill it with warm water mixed with more soap.
   • Draining out the dirty water prevents it from lingering on and staining your cushion. If you’re cleaning multiple cushions, you most likely will need to change out the water at least once.
5. 5 Refill the tub with clean water to rinse out the soap. Add enough warm water to submerge the cushion again. Then, squeeze it all over. Remove as much of the remaining debris as you can. If you have a detachable showerhead, you can use it to spray down the outer part of the cushion to finish cleaning it more quickly.[16]
   • If you’re outside, use a hose to clear soap from the cushion. Squeeze it to press out any remaining soap or debris inside of it.
6. 6 Drain the tub to squeeze excess moisture out of the cushion. Once the water has drained, compress the cushion again by hand. Start at the end furthest from the drain. Push on it to get out as much moisture as you can. Work toward the end closest to the drain while squeezing each section.[17]
   • Take your time. Make sure you squeeze the cushion all over. When you are unable to get more water out of it, you can let it dry on its own.
   • Removing water now helps the cushion to dry faster. It also means you won’t have to try carrying a heavy, waterlogged cushion to a good drying spot.
7. 7 Wrap the cushion in bath towels to blot out leftover moisture. Get a bunch of clean towels, placing some of them underneath the cushion. Wrap the rest over its top. Give it a good squeeze one more time to force out any remaining moisture you couldn’t get earlier. Make sure you cover and squeeze the entire cushion.[18]
   • Dirty towels will only get cushions dirty again. If your towels become soaked, swap them out for fresh ones.
   • Try to remove as much moisture by hand as you can. It will enable cushions to dry out at the fastest possible rate, making them less likely to attract mildew.
8. 8 Move the cushion to a warm area with good air circulation to dry. Take it to a sunny spot outdoors, for instance, or leave it in your bathtub. However, stand it up on one end so the bottom is able to dry. Wait until it feels completely dry to the touch. It can take 30 minutes or more. Afterward, test it by pressing a paper towel down hard against it to see if any moisture comes out.[19]
   • If you’re trying to dry your cushion off indoors, open nearby doors and windows to let more air into the room. Fans can also help. If you’re trying to speed things up, use a hair dryer.
   • The cushion has to be completely dry to prevent mildew growth. Don’t leave the cushion in a cool, dark place, since it won’t dry out fast enough there.
Advertisement

Expert Q&A

Search Add New Question

• Question How do you clean urine out of a foam couch cushion? Daniel Olin Home Cleaning Specialist Daniel Olin is a Home Cleaning Specialist and the CEO of Easyway Maid Service, a home-cleaning company based in Austin, Texas. With over four years of experience, Daniel and Easyway Maid Service specialize in executive-quality maid service, as well as vacation rental cleaning and overall home deep cleaning. Daniel holds a BA in Psychology from The University of California, Los Angeles. Daniel Olin Home Cleaning Specialist Expert Answer Use a cleaner with an enzymatic formula—this is specifically designed to counteract cat or dog urine. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 3 Helpful 15

Ask a Question 200 characters left Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. Submit Advertisement

Tips

• Keep your cushions in good shape with regular maintenance. Vacuum them as often as once a week, spot clean at least once a month, and clean them more deeply once every 2 months. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• If you can’t save an old cushion, try purchasing some replacement foam online or from a craft store. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• Remember to clean underneath couch cushions. Sweep away anything that slipped through the gaps, then vacuum up the remaining debris. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

Submit a Tip All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published Name Please provide your name and last initial Submit Thanks for submitting a tip for review! Advertisement

Warnings

• Damp surfaces attract mildew, so always make sure cushions are dry before reusing them. Keep them in a warm, sunny area with plenty of air circulation so they dry out completely. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0

Advertisement

Things You’ll Need

Washing out Spots

• Paper towels
• Dish or laundry detergent
• Mixing bowl
• Sponge or cloth
• Vinegar
• Baking soda
• Hydrogen peroxide

Deep-Cleaning Cushions

• Dish or laundry detergent
• Towels
• Hose (optional)
• Detachable showerhead (optional)

You Might Also Like

How toClean Couch Cushions How to Clean a Papasan Cushion How toClean a Foam Mattress How to Clean a Fabric Sofa Naturally (DIY Upholstery Cleaning Solutions) How to Get Fresh & Dry Blood Stains Out of a Couch How toWash Memory Foam How toRemove Odors from a Couch How toClean a Sofa How toClean Sofa Stains How toRemove a Urine Stain from a Leather Couch A Complete Guide to Cleaning a Faux Suede Couch How toClean a Fabric Sofa with Vinegar How to Clean a Nugget Couch: Machine Washing & Spot Cleaning How toGet Urine Out of a Car Seat Advertisement

References

1. ↑ https://www.bobvila.com/articles/how-to-clean-upholstery/
2. ↑ https://www.bobvila.com/articles/how-to-clean-patio-cushions/
3. ↑ https://www.popularmechanics.com/home/interior-projects/how-to/a6315/4316171/
4. ↑ https://digitalcommons.unl.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=5607&context=extensionhist
5. ↑ Daniel Olin. Home Cleaning Specialist. Expert Interview
6. ↑ Daniel Olin. Home Cleaning Specialist. Expert Interview
7. ↑ https://digitalcommons.unl.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=5607&context=extensionhist
8. ↑ https://digitalcommons.unl.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=5607&context=extensionhist
9. ↑ https://content.ces.ncsu.edu/cleaning-flooded-upholstered-furniture-curtains-bedding-table-linens-and-other-household-textiles

More References (10)

10. ↑ Daniel Olin. Home Cleaning Specialist. Expert Interview
11. ↑ https://digitalcommons.unl.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=5607&context=extensionhist
12. ↑ Daniel Olin. Home Cleaning Specialist. Expert Interview
13. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mSpPrcWdLTs&feature=youtu.be&t=10
14. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mSpPrcWdLTs&feature=youtu.be&t=22
15. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j0Y3ViNhz4k&feature=youtu.be&t=56
16. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j0Y3ViNhz4k&feature=youtu.be&t=138
17. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j0Y3ViNhz4k&feature=youtu.be&t=148
18. ↑ https://www.bobvila.com/articles/how-to-clean-patio-cushions/
19. ↑ https://www.bobvila.com/articles/how-to-clean-patio-cushions/

About This Article

Co-authored by: Daniel Olin Home Cleaning Specialist This article was co-authored by Daniel Olin. Daniel Olin is a Home Cleaning Specialist and the CEO of Easyway Maid Service, a home-cleaning company based in Austin, Texas. With over four years of experience, Daniel and Easyway Maid Service specialize in executive-quality maid service, as well as vacation rental cleaning and overall home deep cleaning. Daniel holds a BA in Psychology from The University of California, Los Angeles. This article has been viewed 100,498 times. 22 votes - 85% Co-authors: 5 Updated: January 21, 2025 Views: 100,498 Categories: Cleaning Furniture In other languages Spanish Portuguese Japanese

• Print
• Send fan mail to authors

Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 100,498 times.

Did this article help you?

Yes No Advertisement Cookies make wikiHow better. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our cookie policy. Co-authored by: Daniel Olin Home Cleaning Specialist Co-authors: 5 Updated: January 21, 2025 Views: 100,498 85% of readers found this article helpful. 22 votes - 85% Click a star to add your vote

Quizzes & Games

Do I Smell Bad QuizTake QuizHow Disgusting Am I QuizTake QuizWhat Dirty Soda Am I QuizTake QuizWhat Skin Type Do I Have QuizTake QuizHow to Choose Bed Sheets QuizTake QuizWhat Perfume Note Am I QuizTake Quiz

You Might Also Like

How toClean Couch CushionsHow to Clean a Papasan CushionHow toClean a Foam MattressHow to Clean a Fabric Sofa Naturally (DIY Upholstery Cleaning Solutions)

Featured Articles

What Are the Korean Animal Face Types? (And Which Type Do You Have?)Being the Little Spoon While Cuddling: Is It Better Than the Big Spoon?115+ Funny “Get Well Soon” Messages to Make Someone Laugh110+ “Fun Facts” for Interviews, Introductions, & IcebreakersHow Long Would You Survive In A Zombie Apocalypse?How to Roast Someone in a Rap Battle (Plus the Best Bars of All Time)

Trending Articles

How Many People Had a Crush on Me This Year? Find Out HereWhat Song Was #1 On My Birthday?Best Personality TestDo I Have Common Sense QuizCompatibility Test10 Ways to Get Rid of a Hickey Fast

Featured Articles

What Turns a Girl On? 31 Things to Try on Your PartnerLove AnalyzerSending Your Sweetie a Love Note? Here are 200+ Romantic IdeasHow toExercise Your BrainHow toBe a Fun Person to Hang out WithWhat Does Your Morning Routine Say About You?

Featured Articles

How toDevelop Productive HabitsHow toPractice Self CareWhat Song Matches Your Life Right Now?Your 2026 Vision: What Does Next Year Hold?Understanding the Most Attractive Face Shapes (& Determining Your Own)Type A B C D Personality Test

Watch Articles

How to Deep Clean Your Kitchen Sink (& Keep It Clean)How to Curl Your Hair: 8 Easy & Quick WaysHow toThicken Sauce with FlourHow to Brighten Up White Shirts and Other GarmentsHow to Cook White Rice without a Rice CookerHow to Clean Out the Inside of a Glass Bottle (With or Without a Brush)

Trending Articles

What Am I Craving QuizHow toLose Belly Fat in 2 WeeksHow toKiss PassionatelyWhich Hogwarts House Do You Truly Belong In?Toxic Family TestDaily Horoscope (All Signs): What Do The Stars Predict Today?✩⟡˚₊‧

Quizzes & Games

Should I Hire a Housekeeper QuizTake QuizClean or Messy Girl TestTake QuizBedroom Aesthetic QuizTake QuizWhy Can't I Sleep QuizTake QuizWhat Kind of Mattress Should I Buy QuizTake QuizAre You a Big Spoon or a Little Spoon QuizTake Quiz

• Categories
• Home and Garden
• Housekeeping
• Cleaning
• Cleaning Furniture

wikiHow Newsletter You're all set! Helpful how-tos delivered toyour inbox every week! Sign me up! By signing up you are agreeing to receive emails according to our privacy policy.

• Home
• About wikiHow
• Experts
• Jobs
• Contact Us
• Site Map
• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy
• Do Not Sell or Share My Info
• Not Selling Info
• Contribute

Follow Us

×

wikiHow Tech Help Pro:

Develop the tech skills you need for work and life

Let's do this! X --740