How to Remove Stains from Sofas and Chairs in Furnished End of Lease Cleaning

Moving out of a furnished rental property can be an exciting yet stressful process. The packing is the easy part, but the cleaning—especially when it comes to dealing with stubborn stains on the furniture—can feel overwhelming. Whether it’s a coffee spill on the couch or dirt marks from shoes on the armchairs, sofas and chairs are often the most exposed pieces of furniture in a furnished property. These stains not only affect the aesthetic appeal of the property but also play a critical role in securing your bond refund.

As you prepare for your end-of-lease cleaning, the condition of the furniture can be one of the most scrutinized areas during the inspection. In this blog, we will cover everything you need to know about how to remove stains from sofas in furnished property, focusing on cleaning techniques and methods that are tailored to the unique challenges of furnished rental properties. We’ll also offer actionable tips that will make your move-out process smoother, ensuring you leave behind a clean, welcoming space for the next tenants.

From fabric stains and pet hair to food marks and grease spots, we’ve got you covered. This guide is packed with cleaning hacks and professional tips, all designed to help you tackle even the toughest stains while ensuring that your bond refund isn’t jeopardized.

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1. How to Remove Stains from Sofas Matters for Your Bond Refund

When moving out of a furnished rental, the state of the furniture is just as important as the state of the walls or floors. Landlords and property managers generally expect that any furniture provided—whether it’s a sofa, chairs, or armchairs—be left in good condition. Stains and marks on the upholstery can make a bad first impression during the final inspection, and they could result in cleaning charges or even a partial bond deduction.

1.1. What Landlords Look for

Landlords are looking for the cleanliness and maintenance of the property during the final inspection. Furniture stains are among the first things they notice. A dirty sofa or marked chairs can suggest that the property was not well cared for, which can be problematic when it comes to your bond.

1.2. Types of Stains that Can Affect Your Bond

• Food and drink stains: Coffee spills, juice, or greasy food.
  
• Pet stains and hair: Common in homes with pets.
  
• Ink stains: Pen or marker stains.
  
• Oil and grease stains: Especially from greasy foods.
  
• General wear and tear: Dust, dirt, and sweat marks.
  

By making sure your sofas and chairs are free of stains before the final inspection, you’ll avoid unnecessary cleaning fees and ensure your bond isn’t reduced.

2. Common Types of Stains Found on Sofas and Chairs

Each type of stain requires a unique approach to cleaning. Here are the most common sofa and chair stains you might encounter in a furnished property:

2.1. Food and Drink Stains

Food and drink spills are often the most common offenders when it comes to sofa stains. Whether it’s a cup of coffee, a glass of wine, or a spilled bowl of cereal, these stains are prone to settling into fabric and becoming difficult to remove over time.

Common Issues:

• Coffee and tea stains on cushions or armrests.
  
• Red wine and juice spills that leave deep stains on upholstery.
  
• Grease stains from food like pizza or burgers.
  

2.2. Pet Stains and Hair

If you’ve lived in a furnished property with pets, pet stains and hair can be a major concern. Pets can leave behind urine stains, vomit, and feces, as well as an abundance of pet hair that sticks to the fabric.

Common Issues:

• Urine stains that cause discoloration on fabric.
  
• Food stains from pets eating on the furniture.
  
• Pet hair embedded into upholstery.
  

2.3. Ink Stains

Ink stains are notoriously difficult to remove, but they are common in homes with children, or those who write or work at the sofa or chair. Whether it’s from a pen, marker, or any other ink source, ink stains can easily penetrate the fabric and become permanent if not handled right away.

Common Issues:

• Pen ink marks on cushions.
  
• Highlighter or marker stains.
  

2.4. Oil and Grease Stains

Oil and grease stains can happen when food spills onto upholstery or when people lean against furniture with oily skin or greasy hair. The oil soaks into the fabric and leaves a discoloration that can be tough to remove.

Common Issues:

• Grease from cooking, such as bacon grease, pizza oil, or butter.
  
• Body oils from contact with furniture.
  

2.5. Chocolate Stains

Chocolate smears might come from a late-night movie marathon or kids’ sneaky snacks, but whatever the culprit, they’re a common frustration for renters. The good news? Chocolate stains aren’t a lost cause if you tackle them promptly and patiently.

Steps for Removal:

• Gently remove any solid chocolate first using a blunt knife or spoon—take care not to press it deeper into the fabric.
• Mix a small amount of mild dish soap with warm water, and use a clean cloth to gently blot the stain. Avoid scrubbing, as this can spread the mess.
• Blot from the outside toward the center to keep the stain from growing.
• Once the chocolate has lifted, dab the area with a separate damp cloth to rinse away any soapy residue.
• Allow the upholstery to air-dry, and if some stain lingers, try a gentle upholstery cleaner or a stain remover suited for fabrics—just be sure to test on a hidden patch first.

Quick action and a little patience will usually have your sofa looking guest-ready again, with no trace of that accidental sweet treat.

2.6. Crayon Stains

If you have kids (or even creative adults), crayon marks on the sofa are all too familiar. While these colorful streaks can look daunting, they’re not impossible to remove if you act with care.

How to Remove Crayon Stains:

• Scrape gently: Use a plastic card or spatula to carefully lift off as much crayon wax as you can. Avoid pushing the stain deeper into the fabric.
• Treat the mark: Dampen a clean cloth with a bit of isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol, or try a crayon-specific stain remover like Goo Gone. Gently blot—don’t rub—the affected area until you see the color start to lift.
• Clean with soap: For lingering residue, mix a few drops of dish soap (such as Dawn) in some warm water, dip another clean cloth into the suds, and dab at the stain.
• Rinse and blot dry: Finish by blotting the area with a water-dampened cloth to remove any soap or chemical residue. Pat dry with a towel.

Always test your cleaning solution on a hidden spot first to avoid unexpected damage or discoloration. With some patience and the right approach, those crayon masterpieces don’t have to be permanent additions to your furniture!

2.7. Sweat and Body Oils

If you spend a lot of time on your sofa or chairs, sweat and body oils can cause stains. Over time, these oils can also trap dirt and cause fabrics to discolor.

Common Issues:

• Yellow stains on armrests and the back of chairs.
  
• Sweat stains caused by sitting for long periods.
  

2.6. Why You Should Always Check the Manufacturer’s Cleaning Instructions

Before tackling any stain on your sofa or chairs, take a moment to look over the cleaning tag or care instructions from the manufacturer—often found tucked beneath the cushions or attached to the underside. Why does this matter? Every fabric is different: some are robust enough to handle a spin with soap and water, while others (think: delicate linen, plush velvet, or a snazzy IKEA EKTORP cover) can shrink, fade, or even warp with the wrong treatment.

Skipping this key step can lead to some classic cleaning blunders:

• Accidentally voiding your warranty by using an unapproved cleaner.
• Set-in stains when harsh chemicals react badly with sensitive fibers.
• Irreversible damage, like shrinking, color fading, or fabric pilling.

In other words, following the manufacturer’s guidance helps protect your furniture—and your bond money—while giving stains their best shot at a swift and drama-free exit.

Benefits of Professional Cleaning Services

Hiring a professional cleaning service isn’t just about convenience—it’s an investment in your time, health, and peace of mind. Here’s why more homeowners and renters are turning to experts like Dirt2Tidy:

Saves You Time

Let’s face it—life is busy. Between work, family, and moving logistics, cleaning often becomes an overwhelming task. Professional cleaners step in so you can focus on what matters most.

Healthier Living Environment

We don’t just wipe surfaces—we eliminate dust, allergens, and bacteria that hide in corners, carpets, and vents. A deep clean means a safer, healthier space for you and your loved ones.

Professional-Grade Results

With industrial-grade equipment and expert techniques, we deliver a finish that’s hard to achieve on your own. From sparkling tiles to streak-free windows, we leave no detail untouched.

Why Choose Dirt2Tidy?

We go beyond basic cleaning to provide value-packed services tailored for your home or rental property:

•  Eco-Friendly Products
  Safe for your family, pets, and the planet.
  
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  Our team is police-verified, well-trained, and committed to high standards.
  
•  Affordable Pricing
  Transparent rates with no hidden fees. Quality service that doesn’t break the bank.
  

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3. How to Remove Stains from Sofas and Chairs: Step-by-Step

Now that we understand the different types of stains, let’s look at how to remove stains from sofas and chairs effectively. These step-by-step methods will help you tackle food and drink spills, pet stains, and more.

Before You Begin: Check Fabric Care Labels

Before diving into stain removal, always check the fabric care label or manufacturer’s instructions on your furniture. These labels provide essential guidance—using the wrong cleaning method could void your warranty or permanently damage your sofa or chair.

• Can’t find the manual? Look for a tag under the cushions. One side might have directions for the cover, while the other covers the cushions themselves—double-check you’re reading the correct info.
• If you’re unsure, err on the side of caution. Not all fabrics tolerate water or homemade solutions.

Spot Test First:
Even with safe ingredients, always test your cleaning solution in an inconspicuous area. Apply a small amount, gently blot, and wait a few minutes to ensure there’s no discoloration or fabric damage. If all looks good, proceed with confidence.

The Importance of Spot Testing Homemade Solutions

Before you roll up your sleeves and attack that stain with a homemade cleaner, here’s a crucial step you shouldn’t skip: spot testing. Why? Because upholstery fabrics can react in unpredictable ways to even the gentlest DIY concoctions.

By dabbing your solution onto a discreet area—think the back or underside of a cushion—you’ll avoid surprises like color fading, fabric weakening, or stubborn water marks. A quick test gives you peace of mind that you won’t make the stain situation worse or accidentally damage your favorite sofa.

If you don’t notice any discoloration or texture changes after a few minutes, you can clean with confidence, knowing your upholstery will stay looking its best.

3.1. Removing Food and Drink Stains

Step 1: Blot the Stain Immediately The first thing to do when you spill something on your furniture is to blot (don’t rub) the stain with a clean, dry cloth. This helps soak up the excess liquid and prevents it from seeping deeper into the fabric.

Step 2: Use a Cleaning Solution

• For water-based stains (like coffee or juice): Mix 1 cup of warm water, 1 tablespoon of dish soap, and 1 tablespoon of white vinegar in a bowl.
  
• For greasy stains (like pizza grease or oily foods): Use 1 tablespoon of dish soap mixed with 2 cups of warm water. The dish soap will break down the grease.
  

Step 3: Apply the Solution

• Apply your cleaning solution to the stain using a clean cloth or sponge.
  
• Gently dab the solution onto the stain, making sure to cover it thoroughly.
  

Step 4: Scrub and Blot

• After applying the solution, use a soft-bristled brush or a toothbrush to scrub the area gently.
  
• Once the stain begins to lift, blot it with a clean cloth to remove excess moisture.
  

Step 5: Rinse and Dry

• Once the stain is gone, rinse the fabric with warm water to remove any cleaning solution.
  
• Use a dry cloth to absorb any remaining moisture, and allow the furniture to air dry.
  

3.2. Cleaning Pet Stains and Hair

Step 1: Blot Up Excess Moisture

• For pet urine stains, use a paper towel or absorbent cloth to blot the area and soak up any excess moisture.
  
• Avoid rubbing the stain, as this can spread it further.
  

Step 2: Use a Vinegar Solution

• Mix 1 cup of white vinegar with 1 cup of water in a spray bottle.
  
• Spray the solution onto the stained area and let it sit for about 10–15 minutes.
  

Step 3: Scrub the Area

• After the solution has had time to work, use a soft-bristled brush or sponge to scrub the stain gently.
  

Step 4: Rinse and Dry

• Rinse the area with clean water, blot with a cloth to remove moisture, and then allow it to dry.
  
• For pet hair, use a vacuum cleaner with an upholstery attachment or a rubber glove to remove any hair from the fabric.
  

3.3. Removing Ink Stains

Step 1: Blot the Stain

• Blot the ink stain with a clean cloth. Do not rub the stain, as it can spread and get deeper into the fabric.
  

Step 2: Apply Rubbing Alcohol or Hairspray

• Dab rubbing alcohol or hairspray directly onto the ink stain using a cotton ball or soft cloth.
  
• Let it sit for a few minutes before blotting it with a clean cloth.
  

Step 3: Scrub the Stain

• Use a soft-bristled brush or toothbrush to gently scrub the stained area.
  

Step 4: Rinse and Dry

• Rinse the area with warm water to remove any residue and blot with a dry cloth. Allow the fabric to air dry.
  

3.4. Cleaning Oil and Grease Stains

Step 1: Blot the Stain

• For oil stains, start by blotting the area with a clean cloth to absorb any excess oil. Do not rub it in.
  

Step 2: Apply Baking Soda

• Sprinkle baking soda generously on the oil stain. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes to absorb the oil.
  

Step 3: Vacuum and Apply Dish Soap Solution

• After the baking soda has absorbed the oil, vacuum it up.
  
• Apply a solution of 1 tablespoon of dish soap and 2 cups of warm water to the stain.
  
• Scrub with a soft brush or sponge.
  

Step 4: Rinse and Dry

• Rinse with warm water and blot dry with a clean cloth. Allow the furniture to air dry.
  

3.5. Removing Sweat and Body Oil Stains

Step 1: Use Dish Soap and Water

• Mix 1 tablespoon of dish soap with 2 cups of warm water and apply it to the stained area.
  
• Scrub gently with a soft brush or sponge.
  

Step 2: Rinse and Dry

• Rinse the area with warm water and blot it dry with a clean cloth.
  

3.6. Using a Steam Cleaner on Upholstery

Steam cleaning is another excellent way to deep-clean and sanitize your upholstery—especially for stubborn stains or if you want to refresh the entire piece.

Step 1: Vacuum First

• Always start by vacuuming the fabric thoroughly to remove dust, dirt, and crumbs. This prevents debris from getting embedded during steam cleaning.

Step 2: Prepare the Steam Cleaner

• Fill your steam cleaner with water as instructed by the manufacturer.
• Attach the proper upholstery tool (usually a fabric-safe nozzle or brush).

Step 3: Steam Clean the Fabric

• Starting with a small, inconspicuous spot, gently run the steam cleaner over the upholstery. Avoid soaking the fabric; slow, steady passes work best.
• Pay special attention to seams, crevices, and any stained spots.

Step 4: Let It Dry

• Once cleaned, allow the fabric to air dry completely before using the furniture again.
• If you need to speed up drying, direct a fan at the upholstery or open windows for airflow.

A quality steam cleaner (like the Bissell SpotClean or Hoover Power Scrub) can be a game-changer, lifting out dirt and odors while leaving your furniture fresh and sanitized.

4. Additional Tips for Maintaining Clean Furniture

To avoid stains in the future and make end-of-lease cleaning easier, here are a few maintenance tips for keeping your sofas and chairs clean during your tenancy:

4.1. Use Slipcovers

Slipcovers are a great way to protect your furniture from stains. They can be easily removed and washed, saving you time and effort during cleaning.

4.2. Vacuum Regularly

Regular vacuuming helps keep dirt, dust, and pet hair from building up on your sofas and chairs. Use a vacuum with an upholstery attachment to remove debris from fabric surfaces.

4.3. Clean Spills Immediately

The sooner you clean up spills, the easier it will be to remove them. Blot the spill as soon as it happens, and treat the stain immediately to prevent it from setting.

4.4. Keep Pets Off Furniture

If possible, try to keep pets off furniture or use furniture covers to protect it from pet stains and hair. You can also vacuum or brush your pets regularly to minimize shedding.

4.5. Professional Cleaning Services

If your furniture has been heavily stained or you’re running out of time, professional upholstery cleaning services are a great option. Many services offer specialized treatments for removing tough stains and restoring furniture to its original condition.

Why Choose Dirt2Tidy?

When it comes to professional cleaning, not all services are created equal. Here’s how Dirt2Tidy compares to the competition:

Side-by-Side Comparison

Features	Dirt2Tidy ✅	Other Cleaners ❌
Eco-Friendly Cleaning Products	✅ Yes	❌ Often Use Harsh Chemicals
Police-Verified Cleaners	✅ Always	❌ Not Guaranteed
7-Day Reclean Guarantee	✅ Included	❌ Rarely Offered
Transparent & Affordable Pricing	✅ No Hidden Fees	❌ Additional Charges Common
Before & After Photos	✅ Provided Every Job	❌ Rarely Included
Book Online or Over the Phone	✅ Instant Booking	❌ Delayed Response Times

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🚀 Ready for a Spotless Home?

Schedule your cleaning service with Dirt2Tidy today!

📞 Call Now: 1300 789 178
🌐 Book Online: dirt2tidy.com.au/quote-now

Conclusion: Clean Sofas and Chairs for a Smooth Furnished Lease Exit

Cleaning stains from sofas and chairs in a furnished property doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By following the methods outlined in this guide, you can tackle any stain—whether it’s from food, pet accidents, ink, or oil—and ensure your furniture is in top shape for the final inspection. Whether you choose to clean the stains yourself or hire professional cleaning services, taking the time to address any marks on your sofas and chairs is an investment in your bond refund.

By using the right tools, cleaning solutions, and techniques, you’ll have a better chance of getting your bond back in full without any issues. Make sure your furnished rental is spotless by following the right cleaning steps for sofas and chairs, and leave the property in pristine condition for the next tenant.

Ready for a smooth move-out? Book your professional cleaning service today and ensure your furnished property is ready for the final inspection!