How to Get Dye Stains Out of Couches

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Things You'll Need

  • Paper towels

  • Bucket

  • 1 tbsp. dish detergent

  • 1 tbsp. vinegar

  • Sponge

  • Cotton cloths

  • Isopropyl alcohol

  • Leather moisturizer (optional)

A stain-free couch welcomes you to relax.

The absorbent upholstery on your couch makes it particularly susceptible to dye stains. No matter how the dye is transferred, you must remove it carefully to avoid spreading the stain. A quick response on your part prevents the stain from being absorbed into the upholstery, making the job less difficult. Regardless of whether your couch is upholstered with fabric or leather, gentle removal techniques can help you remove the stain. When you use supplies and cleaning methods that are safe for your couch, you can get the dye stain out without damaging the upholstery.

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Step 1

Cover the dye stain with a layer of paper towels to absorb moisture.

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Step 2

Pour 2 cups of warm water into a bucket. Add 1 tbsp. each of dish detergent and white vinegar.

Step 3

Wet a sponge with the detergent and vinegar solution. Squeeze the sponge to remove excess moisture.

Step 4

Moisten the dye-stained area of the couch with the solution. Press a cloth dampened with the solution onto the surface every five minutes for a minimum of 30 minutes to slowly lift the stain.

Step 5

Wipe the upholstery with a damp cloth to rinse the detergent solution from the surface.

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Step 6

Blot the remaining dye stain with a cloth dampened with isopropyl alcohol.

Step 7

Absorb moisture from fabric upholstery by pressing a dry cloth into the surface until no more moisture lifts from the fabric. Allow the upholstery to air-dry. Buff leather moisturizer into a leather surface before allowing it to air-dry.

Tip

Wring out sponges and cloths until they are barely damp before you use them to clean a leather surface.

If couch cushions covers unzip, place paper towels inside to absorb moisture during the cleaning process and prevent it from soaking into the cushion.

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