How to Clean Upholstery with Baking Soda (Step by Step)

ByHomeHygia Editorial Team

Quick answer

Baking soda is a safe, cheap way to deodorize most fabric sofas and chairs. Check the cleaning code first (on the tag under the cushions): it is fine for W and W/S fabrics. Sprinkle a thin, even layer, leave it 20 minutes to a few hours, then vacuum thoroughly with the upholstery tool. For spots, a paste of baking soda and a little water works on W fabrics. Skip it on S and X fabrics, velvet, silk and leather.

Baking soda doesn’t really “clean” fabric the way soap does. What it does well is absorb odors and loosen light surface grime, which makes it ideal for refreshing a couch that smells of pets, food or general use. Below is the right way to use it, how to check your fabric first, and what to do for stains it can’t handle.

Sprinkling baking soda evenly over a fabric sofa cushion before vacuuming

Step 1: Check the upholstery cleaning code

Most upholstered furniture has a cleaning code on a tag under the seat cushions or on the frame (American Leather, Living Spaces):

CodeMeaningBaking soda?
WWater-based cleaners are safeYes, dry or as a paste
W/S or SWWater- or solvent-based cleanersYes, dry; test a paste first
SSolvent cleaners only; water can leave ringsDry sprinkle only, test first; no paste
XVacuum only (or professional cleaning)No

Step 2: Vacuum first

Remove the cushions and vacuum every surface, including the crevices, with the upholstery and crevice tools. Loose crumbs and pet hair stop the baking soda from reaching the fabric. See how to vacuum a couch.

Step 3: Deodorize with dry baking soda

  1. Test on a hidden area, such as the back or underside, especially on dark fabric.
  2. Sprinkle a thin, even layer using a sieve or shaker. A heavy pile is harder to vacuum out.
  3. Gently work it in with a soft brush.
  4. Leave it for at least 20 minutes, or several hours (overnight for strong odors).
  5. Vacuum slowly and thoroughly with the upholstery tool until no white residue remains.
How to clean upholstery with baking soda: check the code, vacuum, sprinkle, wait, vacuum

Step 4: Spot-clean with a paste (W fabrics only)

  1. Mix 2 tablespoons of baking soda with just enough water to make a soft paste.
  2. Dab it on the stain with a soft cloth. Don’t scrub hard.
  3. Let it dry completely.
  4. Brush off and vacuum, then blot any residue with a barely damp white cloth.

For greasy marks, sprinkle dry baking soda or cornstarch on the spot first to absorb the oil, leave it 15–20 minutes, then brush off before using the paste.

When baking soda isn’t enough

What not to do

  • Don’t use baking soda on leather, suede, silk or velvet; it can dry or mark them.
  • Don’t mix baking soda with vinegar on fabric. They neutralize each other and the fizz can push liquid deeper into the cushion.
  • Don’t leave residue behind; it can feel gritty and attract dirt.
  • Don’t soak S-code fabrics with a paste or wet cleaner.

Frequently asked questions

How long should baking soda sit on a couch?

At least 20 minutes for a light refresh, and several hours or overnight for strong odors.

Can baking soda damage upholstery?

Rarely, on W and W/S fabrics. It can leave a white haze on dark fabrics if not vacuumed out, and it isn’t suitable for X-code fabrics, leather or delicate materials.

Does baking soda remove stains?

It helps with light, fresh stains and grease, but not set-in or dye-based stains.

Can I use baking soda on a microfiber couch?

Yes, if the code is W or W/S. Microfiber marked S should be cleaned with a solvent cleaner instead.

Is baking soda safe around pets?

In small amounts on furniture, yes, but keep pets off until you have vacuumed it all up.

Sources

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  • HomeHygia Editorial Team

    The HomeHygia Editorial Team researches air purifiers, vacuums and cleaning products, compares specs and real-world reviews, and keeps every guide updated to help you build a cleaner, healthier home.