How to effectively remove odors from fabric sofas?

2025-11-04

Fabric sofas are popular for their fresh and natural look, affordability, and stylish colors and designs. However, over time, fabric sofas inevitably develop odors, affecting the home environment. So how do you remove odors from fabric sofas? Here are a few tips.

Plant-based deodorizers

Plants are very effective at removing odors. Using green plants to remove odors from fabric sofas is an economical and environmentally friendly method. Simply place several large-leafed plants like pothos around the sofa; these plants will absorb harmful gases and odors released by the sofa. Alternatively, you can place aloe vera, spider plants, or other similar plants. Placing large leafy plants like spider plants or monstera next to the fabric sofa can absorb some formaldehyde. Air plants like tamarisk can also effectively remove odors from fabric sofas.

Tea removes odor

You can take some tea leaves in gauze, wrap them into small packets, and stuff them into the crevices of the sofa. If possible, you can replace regular tea leaves with flower tea, which has a fragrance and is more effective at removing odors. For example, if you have a fabric sofa in the living room, you can put tea leaves in small packets and stuff them into the crevices to remove odors.

Sunlight removes odors

Don't underestimate the power of natural light! It not only warms you but also disinfects and removes odors, accelerating the evaporation of formaldehyde. We recommend taking the seat and back cushions of your fabric sofa outside to sunbathe; when they're puffed up, give them a good beating. If possible, wash and dry the sofa cover. For living room fabric sofas, regularly taking the seat and back cushions outside to sunbathe will remove odors and kill bacteria.

Fruit peels remove odors

Besides green plants, you can also place orange and lemon peels next to the fabric sofa in the room. As we all know, orange and lemon peels are effective at removing odors, leaving a fresh fruity scent. However, their effects are not immediate and require patience. Alternatively, cutting pineapple into small pieces and placing them on a plate next to the sofa also has the same odor-removing effect.

Odor removal at the source

Some odors are difficult to remove because the formaldehyde in the boards and materials hasn't completely dissipated. Fabric sofa manufacturers often use boards and materials with odors during production. We can use a strong formaldehyde remover, applying it to penetrate and remove the odor. Then, thoroughly wash the fabric surface. This will completely and quickly remove the odor. However, it's important to note that this process should be done in a well-ventilated outdoor environment.