How Much Does It Cost to Clean a Fabric Couch in 2026?

Ever sat down on your couch after a long day, only to notice the stains, crumbs, and that odd smell you can’t quite place? You think about cleaning it-but then you stop. Not because you don’t care, but because you have no idea what it’ll cost. Is it £50? £150? Do you even need to hire someone, or can you do it yourself? The truth is, cleaning a fabric couch isn’t one-size-fits-all. The price swings based on size, fabric, stains, and whether you go DIY or call in pros. Let’s break it down so you know exactly what to expect.

What Factors Affect the Cost of Cleaning a Fabric Couch?

Not all couches are created equal. A small loveseat with light wear won’t cost the same as a large L-shaped sectional covered in pet hair and red wine stains. Here’s what really moves the needle on price:

• Size of the couch - A two-seater might cost £60-£80. A three-seater? £90-£130. Sectionals? £150-£250. Larger surface area = more time, more solution, more labor.
• Fabric type - Cotton and polyester are easy to clean. Wool, velvet, and microfiber need special care. Some fabrics can’t handle steam. Others require dry-cleaning solvents. Professionals charge extra for delicate materials.
• Stain level - A couch with coffee rings and dust? Standard rate. One with pet urine, ink, or old food stains? That’s a deep clean. Many companies add £20-£50 per stubborn stain.
• Odor removal - If your couch smells like a dog’s bed after a rainy walk, you’ll need deodorizing treatments. This usually adds £30-£60 to the total.
• Location - In London, prices are 20-30% higher than in smaller towns. In Brighton, where I live, you’ll pay mid-range: £80-£140 for a standard three-seater.

Most cleaners charge by the piece, not by the hour. That means you pay for the couch, not how long it takes them to scrub it. This is good for you-it keeps them from dragging things out.

Professional Cleaning: What You’ll Pay

If you’re thinking about hiring someone, here’s what you’ll actually see on a quote in early 2026:

Most reputable companies include basic stain removal and deodorizing in the base price. But always ask: "Does this include drying time? Are there hidden fees?" Some low-ballers charge extra for moving furniture, using eco-friendly solutions, or cleaning under cushions.

Also, don’t assume cheaper is better. A £40 couch cleaning in Brighton might mean they use harsh chemicals that fade your fabric or leave residue. Look for cleaners who use HEPA-filtered extraction and non-toxic, pH-balanced solutions. These are safer for kids, pets, and your lungs.

DIY Cleaning: Can You Save Money?

You can clean your couch yourself-and save £70-£150. But only if you’re realistic about your skills and your couch’s condition.

Here’s what works:

1. Vacuum first - Use the upholstery attachment. Do this weekly. It removes 80% of dirt before it becomes a stain.
2. Spot clean stains immediately - Blot (don’t rub) with a damp cloth and a drop of mild dish soap. For grease, sprinkle baking soda, wait 15 minutes, then vacuum.
3. Use a steam cleaner - Rent one for £20-£30 from a local hardware store. Use distilled water and a fabric-safe cleaner. Move slowly. Don’t oversaturate. Let it dry 6-8 hours.
4. Deodorize - Sprinkle baking soda, wait 30 minutes, then vacuum. It kills odors better than air fresheners.

But here’s the catch: DIY doesn’t work well for deep-set stains, pet accidents, or delicate fabrics. If your couch is 10 years old and you’ve never cleaned it, you’re probably better off calling a pro. You could end up spreading the stain or shrinking the fabric.

Also, most fabric warranties require professional cleaning every 12-18 months. If you DIY too often, you might void your warranty. Check the tag under the cushions before you start.

What’s the Best Time to Clean Your Couch?

Don’t wait until it looks awful. Clean your fabric couch every 6-12 months, depending on use.

• House with kids or pets? Clean every 6 months.
• Quiet home, occasional guests? Once a year is fine.
• After a party, spill, or pet accident? Clean within 48 hours. Stains set fast.

Spring and autumn are the best seasons for cleaning. Humidity is lower, so drying takes less time. Avoid cleaning in winter if you can’t open windows-damp couches can grow mold.

Red Flags When Hiring a Cleaner

Not all upholstery cleaners are trustworthy. Here’s how to spot the bad ones:

• They don’t ask about your fabric type.
• They quote over the phone without seeing the couch.
• They use phrases like "guaranteed to remove all stains" - no one can guarantee that.
• They show up with no equipment or just a spray bottle.
• They demand full payment upfront.

Good cleaners will:

• Bring a portable extractor and a drying fan.
• Test a hidden area first (like under the cushion).
• Give you a written quote with itemized costs.
• Use pH-neutral, non-toxic solutions.
• Wait until the couch is fully dry before leaving.

Check reviews on Google or Trustpilot. Look for photos of before-and-after jobs. Real results beat flashy websites.

Is It Worth It to Clean an Old Couch?

If your couch is worn, faded, or smells like old sweat, you might wonder: should I just replace it?

Here’s the math:

• A decent new three-seater: £800-£1,500
• Professional cleaning: £120-£180
• Restored couch lifespan: +3-5 years

That’s a 70-85% cost saving. And if you love the shape, the color, the way it fits in your living room? Cleaning it makes sense. Especially if you’ve got a good frame and solid springs.

Only replace it if the cushions are flat, the fabric is torn, or the frame is wobbly. Otherwise, cleaning is the smarter move.

How to Keep Your Couch Clean Longer

Once it’s clean, don’t let it get dirty again. Here’s how to extend the time between cleanings:

• Use washable throws or slipcovers - they catch spills and can be tossed in the machine.
• No eating on the couch - crumbs attract bugs and stain fabric.
• Keep pets off the arms - their nails snag fibers and their fur builds up fast.
• Rotate cushions weekly - this evens out wear and prevents one side from getting dirtier.
• Use a fabric protector spray after cleaning - it repels spills and makes future cleanups easier.

One of my neighbors in Brighton sprays her couch with a DIY mix of water and white vinegar every month. It’s cheap, safe, and keeps dust mites away. She hasn’t needed a pro clean in three years.