A sofa is more than cushions and fabric. It has a frame, springs, foam, stitching and finishes that all need gentle care. Ignoring the regular care and various other small things not only damages its shape and overall look, but also causes early wear and tear. It results in shortening the life of your sofa.
In this guide, we will discuss common mistakes people make, how they harm your furniture, and simple, practical ways to avoid the damage.
1. Ignoring the Manufacturer’s Care Instructions
Almost all sofa models, such as a Liora 3 seater sofa, come with specific cleaning and care guidelines. Ignoring these can lead to problems such as faded colour, loose seams, and sagging cushions. Using the wrong products or methods can even void your warranty.
Tip to avoid it: Always read the care manual and follow it closely. Keep warranty papers, register your purchase, and contact the retailer if you’re unsure about maintenance. Stick to approved cleaners and avoid DIY fixes that may cause more harm.
2. Placing Your Sofa in Direct Sunlight or Near Heat
Sunlight fades fabric colours and weakens fibres. Heat from radiators or fireplaces can dry out leather and fabric glue, leading to cracks. These changes may happen slowly, but they can seriously shorten your sofa’s life.
Tip to avoid it: Keep your sofa away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Use blinds or curtains during the day and rotate your sofa occasionally to even out any light exposure.
3. Not Rotating or Flipping Cushions
Sitting in the same spot every day compresses foam and creates uneven wear. Over time, this leads to dips and poor support. Cushion covers can lose shape, and seams may weaken, needing replacement.
Tip to avoid it: A few minutes of care keeps your sofa firm and evenly shaped. Swap and flip cushions every week or two. Plump them regularly and replace inner fillings once they stop springing back.
4. Letting Pets on the Sofa Without Protection
Pet claws, fur, and natural oils can damage fabrics, while dirt or pests brought in from outside can shorten your sofa’s life. It also increases the risk of skin allergies and respiratory issues.
Tip to avoid it: Use washable throws or pet-friendly covers. Trim your pet’s nails and brush them often to reduce shedding. Encourage them to use their own bed, and vacuum the sofa regularly to remove hair and dust.
5. Eating and Drinking on the Sofa
It’s easy to snack in front of the TV, but food and drink spills lead to stains and bad odours. Crumbs also attract insects and pests, making your living area messy and unhealthy.
Tip to avoid it: Try to keep meals at the dining table. If you do eat on the sofa, use trays or coasters. Clean spills immediately with a suitable cleaner and wash removable covers often. Keep a small bin and some wipes nearby for quick clean-ups.
6. Skipping Regular Cleaning
Dust, grit, and body oils slowly wear down fabric fibres. So, without regular cleaning, the material loses colour and freshness.
Tip to avoid it: Vacuum your sofa once a week using a soft brush attachment. Focus on seams and corners, wipe stains gently and deep clean once or twice a year. It helps your sofa last much longer without losing its original shine.
7. Using the Sofa Roughly
Jumping or sitting on the arms puts stress on the frame and springs. Over time, joints loosen and wood or metal parts can bend.
Tip to avoid it: Treat your sofa gently. Remind children not to jump on it and avoid perching on the arms. Check screws and bolts every few months and tighten them if needed.
8. Moving the Sofa Carelessly
Dragging or twisting a sofa can damage the frame and upholstery. Moreover, tight spaces and quick moves make it easy to cause cracks or loose joints.
Tip to avoid it: Always lift with help instead of dragging. Remove detachable parts, use lifting straps, and measure doorways before moving. The best way is to hire professionals to move your sofa safely and protect the fabric.
9. Using Harsh Cleaning Products
Strong chemicals such as bleach or ammonia are usually used to remove stains, but they also remove the sofa’s colour and weaken the fabric. Similarly, over-wetting during cleaning can cause mould and odour.
Tip to avoid it: Check your sofa’s care label and use only approved products. Test new cleaners on hidden spots first. Gently blot stains instead of scrubbing, and for stubborn marks, call a professional cleaner.
10. Ignoring Repairs and Professional Servicing
Small faults can grow into big problems if left untreated. For example, loose joints and worn springs not only affect comfort but also reduce its lifespan.
Tip to avoid it: Get minor issues checked early by trained technicians. Moreover, reliable providers, like Night Time Beds & Sofas, also offer authorised repair or maintenance services. You can consider this option to ensure easy, regular care of your sofa.
Key Takeaway
By avoiding these common mistakes and practising the aforementioned tips, you can keep your sofa in the right shape for years. It keeps your living area well organised and aesthetically appealing without spending money on a new sofa set every year.
