In this article, we are here to help you with some proven ways how to remove water stains from a couch.
There is nothing cosier than snuggling on the sofa all Sunday! We have all dreamt about it, especially after a busy week. We see the comfy couch in our dreams, but it can be a nightmare too, especially after the festive month! With many celebrations or guests, the couch can turn into a place with so many stains that you don’t even know where to start from.
Unfortunately, almost anything you bring around your sofa can easily cause a stain! All kinds of food and drinks, even cosmetics accidentally falling, cause the damage, and you can’t relax on it anymore until you fix the mess.
The worst is yet to come when you start dabbing the stain with water in order to clean it. Not only does it not remove the original mark, but the water also leaves dark, rusty, and ugly patches. Have you asked yourself why?
Well, tap water contains minerals like iron and manganese, which can precipitate on thin fabrics and cause coloured stains. At this point, you already think your couch will never be the same again! We know that feeling.
Don’t worry! As always, we are here to help you with some proven ways on how to remove those water stains from your sofa! There might be one or multiple methods suitable to get it out. Luckily for you, there is no need to buy any specialised, expensive cleaning products for this process. But before we get started, keep in mind, the best way to handle it is to act quickly!
As common cleaning challenge in UK homes, we recommend you remove the stains as soon as possible to avoid any permanent damage. If the process seems daunting, you might want to consider checking our sofa cleaning services for professional help.
Pro Tip: Read the label of your couch, check the type of fabric it is made of. It can vary from natural to artificial or some kind of a blend between both. If the textile is natural, be more careful; try all the liquids mentioned below on a small invisible patch before rubbing into the stain.

Now let’s get started with some practical solutions!
The First One is…:
White Vinegar
White vinegar is an excellent product for cleaning as it contains natural acetic acid, perfect for removing water stains from different surfaces and upholstered furniture. Therefore, always mix with water as it can be too aggressive depending on the fabric type.
Take a bow and mix:
- 2 cups of white vinegar
- 1 cup of hot water
You will also need a fresh cloth and a soft-bristled brush.
Dip a piece of cloth in the mix and then dab on the stain, using a soft-bristled brush to brush over the mark in circular motions. When you are ready, leave for about thirty minutes, and after that, rinse again with a clean cloth. If you’re happy with the results, use a blow dryer, and dry the area, but if the stain is still visible, repeat the process up to 3 times.
Lemon Juice
- 2 freshly squeezed lemons
- 1 cup of hot water
- A clean cloth
- Toothbrush
Instructions:
- Make your mix and pour it on the stain for about 10 minutes.
- Spray more of the solution and use an old toothbrush to work on the stain.
When you see the stain clearing, take a damp cloth to pat the area. Repeat until the stain has come off, then pat dry.
Book a professional cleaner?
We are happy to offer you some of the most competitive prices in the industry.
Vodka
Vodka or alcohol, in general, are very effective remover. It is a great hack against watermarks.
Put into a spray bottle:
- 1 cup of vodka or rubbing alcohol
- 1/2 cup of warm water
Instructions:
- Put the mix in a spray bottle and spray generously on the water stains.
- Scrub gently in circular motions with a toothbrush to push the solution into the watermark.
- Leave it for 10 minutes, then pat the area dry.
If you’re interested in more ways to keep your furniture and home clean, take a look at our cleaning services.
You will also need an old toothbrush.
Spray the mix on the water stains, making sure you use enough to cover it all. Scrub gently in circular motions with a toothbrush, to push the products into the watermark. Leave the mix to work for 10 minutes, after which take the clean cloth and pat on the spot.
When you are happy with the result, pat the area dry.
There is one way to prevent unavoidable stains, invest in a waterproof cover for your sofa. It is a good option, but if this is not your cup of tea, and you are sick of spending hours cleaning those marks, just call a professional! You can always rely on our fast service for professional domestic cleaning!
Read Also: How to Clean Your Leather Sofa
Our friendly staff will break every stain using the most high-quality equipment.
Cleaning your couch once per season is more than enough to keep it fresh and much more cost-effective than investing in a new one every few years. Enjoy your precious time with friends and family while we take care of all the work!
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