Your sofa is often the centrepiece of your living room, but it is also the first place to show the impact of daily life—spills, crumbs, pet hair, and general wear and tear. Sofa covers make maintaining cleanliness easier since they are removable and washable. However, one wrong wash cycle can leave them shrunken, misshapen, or faded.
If you have wondered how to wash sofa covers without shrinking them, this guide will provide a complete answer. From preparation and fabric-specific care to eco-friendly hacks and when to seek professional help, you will learn how to keep your sofa covers fresh, clean, and perfectly fitted.
Can You Wash Sofa Covers Without Ruining Them?
Yes, you can wash sofa covers safely if you use the correct method. Shrinkage usually happens because of:
- Washing in hot water.
- Using strong detergents or bleach.
- Drying in a tumble dryer on high heat.
- Ignoring fabric care labels.
By avoiding these mistakes, sofa covers can be washed at home while retaining their original fit.
Preparing Sofa Covers Before Washing
Preparation helps prevent damage and ensures a better clean.
- Check the Care Label – Look for washing instructions regarding temperature, detergent, and drying.
- Vacuum First – Remove dust, crumbs, and pet hair to protect your washing machine.
- Pre-Treat Stains – Apply fabric-safe stain remover or mild soap to visible spots.
- Close Zippers and Fastenings – Prevents tangling and tearing.
- Turn Covers Inside Out – Protects the outer surface from fading and friction.
Hand Washing vs Machine Washing vs Dry Cleaning
The right cleaning method depends on the fabric of your sofa covers.
Hand Washing
Best for delicate fabrics like linen, silk, and wool blends.
- Use cold or lukewarm water.
- Add a small amount of mild detergent.
- Soak gently and rinse without wringing.
Machine Washing
Suitable for durable fabrics such as cotton and polyester.
- Select a delicate or hand-wash cycle.
- Use cold water at 30°C or below.
- Wash one or two covers at a time for even cleaning.
Dry Cleaning
Recommended for fabrics like velvet, chenille, or structured upholstery covers.
- Protects delicate fibres.
- Prevents shrinkage and colour fading.
- Necessary if the label states “Dry Clean Only.”
Drying Sofa Covers Without Shrinking
The drying stage is crucial in preventing shrinkage.
- Avoid Tumble Dryers – Heat is the most common cause of shrinkage.
- Air Dry in Shade – Keeps colours vibrant and prevents fading.
- Lay Flat on Towels – Maintains shape and avoids stretching.
- Refit While Damp – Putting covers back on the sofa when slightly damp ensures a snug fit and reduces wrinkles.
Eco-Friendly Cleaning Hacks
If you want to keep your sofa covers clean while reducing environmental impact:
- Add white vinegar during the rinse cycle to neutralise odours.
- Sprinkle bicarbonate of soda on dry covers to absorb smells, then vacuum.
- Use lemon juice as a natural stain remover for light fabrics.
- Consider steam cleaning to refresh covers without full immersion.
Storage Tips for Spare Sofa Covers
If you rotate sofa covers for seasonal use, proper storage is key:
- Always wash and fully dry covers before storing.
- Store in breathable cotton bags, not plastic, to avoid moisture build-up.
- Place lavender sachets or cedar blocks to prevent moths and musty odours.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Washing at temperatures higher than 30°C.
- Using bleach or harsh chemicals.
- Wringing or twisting fabric after washing.
- Leaving covers damp which can lead to mould.
- Overloading the washing machine.
How Often Should Sofa Covers Be Washed?
The frequency depends on your household:
- Every 3–6 months for general maintenance.
- Monthly if you have children or pets.
- Immediately after any significant spill.
Between washes, vacuum weekly and spot-clean as needed to keep them fresh.
DIY vs Professional Upholstery Cleaning
| DIY Sofa Cover Cleaning | Professional Upholstery Cleaning |
| Lower cost and convenient | Higher cost but safe for all fabrics |
| Risk of shrinkage if care instructions are ignored | No risk – specialists use safe methods |
| Effective for light dirt and routine upkeep | Best for stubborn stains and delicate materials |
| Can be time-consuming | Saves effort and ensures consistent results |
Professional cleaning is often the best solution for delicate or non-removable covers.
FAQs: How to Wash Sofa Covers Without Shrinking
Q1. Can you wash sofa covers in the washing machine?
Yes, but always check the label first. Cotton and polyester covers are generally safe, while delicate fabrics may require hand washing or dry cleaning.
Q2. What temperature should I use when washing sofa covers?
Keep to 30°C or below to prevent shrinking.
Q3. Can sofa covers go in the dryer?
It is best to avoid dryers. Air drying is safest and helps retain shape.
Q4. How do I wash sofa covers that are not removable?
Vacuum regularly, spot clean with a damp cloth, or hire a professional upholstery cleaner.
Q5. Should I iron sofa covers?
Avoid direct ironing. If necessary, use a steam setting or refit covers damp to smooth wrinkles.
Q6. How often should I wash sofa covers?
Every 3–6 months for general upkeep, more often in busy households.
Q7. What detergent should I use?
A mild, liquid detergent without bleach is best.
Q8. Will dry cleaning shrink sofa covers?
No, professional dry cleaning is a safe method that prevents shrinkage.
Q9. How can I refresh sofa covers between washes?
Vacuum, steam clean lightly, or sprinkle bicarbonate of soda to neutralise odours.
Q10. Can sofa covers shrink even if washed correctly?
Minimal shrinkage can occur naturally over time, but careful washing reduces the risk.
Conclusion
Sofa covers protect your furniture and keep your home looking fresh, but they need careful handling to avoid shrinking during washes. By using cold water, gentle detergent, and air drying, you can safely clean sofa covers at home. For delicate fabrics or heavy staining, professional upholstery cleaning is the most reliable option.
For expert help, contact Urbanshine Cleaners. Our specialist cleaning services in East London use eco-friendly, fabric-safe methods to refresh your sofa covers without the risk of shrinkage.