How to Wash Sofa Covers

Use a slipcover to give your couch an elegant look.

If you want to change the look of your sofa but don't want to spend a lot of money, slipcovers are the way to go. Instead of buying a new, costly couch, simply cover it to create an entirely new look. Sofa covers will allow you to hide sofa rips and stains, and update your furniture to match a new home decor style. When the slipcover is need of cleaning, simply take it off of the couch and wash it in your washing machine.

Things You'll Need

• Vacuum
• Washing machine
• Laundry detergent
• Clothes line or dryer

Instructions

1. Vacuum the slipcover to remove pet fur, hair and other debris before taking it off of the couch.

2. Check the slipcover's labels to confirm that it is machine washable; if it isn't, you can take it to a dry cleaner.

3. Place the slipcover into your washing machine. Wash a large cover by itself to avoid machine overcrowding.

4. Pour laundry detergent into the washing machine and set the water temperature to "Warm." Turn the washing machine on to its delicate cycle.

5. Hang the clean slipcover on a clothes line outdoors to dry, or place it into your dryer on low heat. Remove the slipcover from the dryer immediately after the cycle is finished to avoid wrinkling the fabric. Place the slipcover back onto the sofa while the fabric is still a little damp. Avoid sitting on the sofa until the slipcover is thoroughly dry.

References

• Slipcovers: Care Ideas
• "Good Housekeeping"; Caring for Textiles, Curtains, Pillows and Blankets; Heloise