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How to Clean Grease Stains from Cloth Sofa: Easy & Natural Solutions

How to Clean Grease Stains from Cloth Sofa

Have you ever spilled greasy food or oil on your favorite cloth sofa? You're not alone. Grease stains are one of the most stubborn types of stains to deal with especially on fabric furniture. But don’t worry! In this guide, we’ll show you simple, safe, and natural ways to remove grease stains from your cloth sofa, even if the stain has been sitting for a while.

Why Is Grease So Hard to Remove?

Grease is an oil-based substance, which means it doesn't mix well with water. That’s why simply wiping the stain with a wet cloth doesn’t work. In fact, it can make things worse by spreading the stain deeper into the fabric. The key to success is using ingredients that break down the oil without damaging your sofa’s material.

What You’ll Need

  • White cloth or paper towel
  • Baking soda or cornstarch
  • Dish soap (preferably degreasing)
  • Warm water
  • A bowl
  • Soft-bristled brush or sponge
  • Vacuum cleaner
  • Optional: white vinegar and lemon juice

Step-by-Step: How to Clean Grease Stains from Cloth Sofa

1. Blot the Stain (Don’t Rub!)

As soon as the spill happens, act fast. Use a dry white cloth or paper towel to gently blot the area. Press down lightly to absorb as much oil as possible. Do not rub the stain. Rubbing pushes the oil deeper into the fabric fibers.

2. Apply Baking Soda or Cornstarch

Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda or cornstarch over the grease stain. These powders naturally absorb oils from the fabric.

  • Let it sit for at least 15–20 minutes
  • For old stains, let it sit overnight
  • After that, vacuum the area carefully to remove the powder

3. Make a Soapy Cleaning Solution

Mix the following in a bowl:

  • 1 teaspoon of dish soap (degreasing type works best)
  • 1 cup of warm water

Dip a clean cloth or sponge into the solution and dab it gently onto the stained area. Use circular motions to lift the grease. Avoid using too much water as excess moisture can soak the cushion and cause mildew.

4. Rinse With Clean Water

Once you’ve treated the stain with soap, dampen another cloth with plain warm water and dab the area to rinse out the soap. Do this several times until the soapy residue is gone.

5. Blot and Let It Dry

Use a dry towel to blot the area and absorb excess moisture. Let the sofa air-dry completely. You can speed up the drying process by placing a fan near the spot.

Natural Alternatives (If You Don’t Have Dish Soap)

Baking Soda + Lemon Juice

Mix baking soda with a few drops of lemon juice to make a paste. Apply it directly on the grease stain and let it sit for 30 minutes before wiping it off.

White Vinegar Solution

Mix equal parts vinegar and warm water. Spray or apply the solution to the stain and dab gently. Vinegar is excellent for breaking down grease and eliminating odors.

Before using any cleaner (even natural ones), test it on a hidden part of your sofa first to make sure it doesn’t cause discoloration.

What You Should Avoid

  • Never use bleach or harsh chemicals
  • Don’t rub or scrub aggressively
  • Avoid soaking the fabric with too much water
  • Don’t skip the drying process (damp cushions can develop mold)

How to Prevent Future Grease Stains

  • Use slipcovers or throws on your sofa, especially when eating
  • Apply fabric protector spray to make it stain-resistant
  • Clean spills immediately before they settle into the fabric
  • Keep greasy snacks and meals away from the sofa

When to Call a Professional Cleaner

Sometimes, a grease stain is just too tough to handle at home. Consider calling a professional if:

  • The stain is large and very old
  • You’ve tried multiple methods with no success
  • Your sofa is made of delicate or expensive fabric
  • You’re worried about damaging the upholstery

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Conclusion

Cleaning grease stains from a cloth sofa might seem scary at first, but with the right steps and ingredients, it’s totally doable! The key is to act quickly, use natural absorbents like baking soda, and avoid over-wetting the fabric. Whether you're dealing with a fresh spill or an old stain, the methods above can help you restore your sofa to its clean and comfy best.

Have you tried any of these tips? Let us know your results or share your own method in the comments!

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