You’ve just spent time cleaning your sofa, expecting it to smell fresh and feel clean again. But somehow, that unpleasant odour is still there. Whether it’s a lingering musty smell, body odour, or something you can’t quite place, it can be frustrating when your sofa doesn't smell as clean as it looks.
Here’s why this happens – and what you can do to fix it.
Common Reasons Sofas Keep Smelling After Cleaning
1. Odours trapped deep in the cushions
Fabric sofas, in particular, can absorb odours over time from sweat, food, pets, and general use. A surface clean might freshen up the fabric, but smells can remain locked in the inner padding and foam.
2. Moisture wasn't fully removed
If water or cleaning solutions aren't properly extracted, moisture can stay trapped inside the sofa. This often causes mould or mildew to develop, leading to persistent musty smells.
3. Cleaning products that mask, not remove
Many general household cleaners only mask odours rather than remove them. In some cases, they might even react with what’s already in the fabric, making the smell worse.
4. Pet smells and natural oils
Even if your pets don’t have accidents on the furniture, their natural oils, fur, and body odour can seep into the fabric and linger for a long time.
How to Properly Remove Sofa Odours
Use an enzyme cleaner
These products break down organic material at the source, which is ideal for removing sweat, food spills, pet mess, and other common household odours.
Sprinkle with bicarbonate of soda
This natural deodoriser is highly effective. Sprinkle a generous amount over the sofa, leave it overnight, then vacuum it up thoroughly.
Steam clean for a deeper result
A proper steam clean can lift dirt and bacteria from beneath the fabric’s surface. Just ensure the sofa dries completely afterwards to avoid trapping new moisture.
Wash removable cushion covers
If your sofa has removable covers, check the care instructions and put them through a gentle wash using an odour-eliminating detergent.
Air it out
Fresh air can work wonders. Open windows to improve ventilation or place your sofa in a well-aired room. If possible, position it in direct sunlight for a few hours to help kill bacteria and reduce smells.
When to Consider Replacing Your Sofa
If you've tried multiple methods and the smell returns quickly, it could be time to replace the sofa. Over the years, foam and padding can hold onto moisture and bacteria permanently.
At Honeypot Furniture, we offer a wide selection of modern, comfortable sofas that are made for real life – including designs with removable covers, hardwearing fabrics, and easy-clean options. Whether you’re looking for a corner sofa, a U-shaped design, or a practical sofa bed, we’ve got styles that suit your space and lifestyle.
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