What’s a safe DIY cleaner for most fabrics?

A small amount of mild dish soap in water works for many fabrics; baking soda deodorises; diluted white vinegar can help with certain stains. Always patch-test first.

The Complete Guide to Cleaning Your Mattress, Sofa, Curtains & Carpets at Home

Q: Can I steam clean all upholstery?

No. Always check fabric care labels. Some materials are vacuum-only or require solvent-based cleaning and can be damaged by steam.

SG House Cleaning

Malay female cleaners performing mattress, sofa, curtain, and carpet cleaning tasks in a tidy home environment.

Mattresses, sofas, curtains, and carpets are some of the most-used items in your home — yet they are often the most overlooked when it comes to regular cleaning. Over time, they can trap dust, allergens, pet hair, stains, and even odors that affect the overall comfort and air quality of your living space. The good news is you can maintain them yourself with the right techniques, saving money and extending their lifespan. In this guide, you’ll find detailed step-by-step methods to clean each of these household essentials, plus expert tips on when it’s worth calling a professional.

How to Clean a Mattress

Vacuum thoroughly on all sides. Use the upholstery attachment on your vacuum to clean the top, sides, and even the underside of the mattress. Pay special attention to seams and crevices where dust mites and dirt tend to collect. If possible, vacuum both sides of the mattress for a complete clean.
Treat stains immediately. Mix a few drops of mild dish soap with warm water and use a clean cloth to gently blot the affected area. Avoid soaking the mattress — too much moisture can lead to mold growth inside the padding. For stubborn stains, an enzyme cleaner can help break down organic matter.
Deodorize with baking soda. Lightly sprinkle a layer of baking soda across the surface and leave it for at least two hours. This natural deodorizer helps absorb moisture and neutralize odors. Vacuum thoroughly afterward to remove any residue.
Air dry in a ventilated space. Position the mattress near an open window or use fans to speed up drying. Never cover or remake the bed until the mattress is completely dry.

How to Clean a Sofa

Check the fabric care label. Look for codes such as “W” (water-based cleaner), “S” (solvent-based cleaner), “WS” (either water or solvent-based), or “X” (vacuum only). This will help you choose the safest cleaning method for your sofa material.
Remove and clean cushions separately. Vacuum the cushions, then the sofa base, seams, and backrest. Use a crevice tool to get into tight areas where crumbs and dirt accumulate.
Spot treat stains with the correct solution. For fabric sofas, mix a few drops of mild detergent in water; for leather sofas, use a leather-specific cleaner and a soft cloth. Test any cleaning solution on a hidden area first to avoid discoloration.
Neutralize odors naturally. Sprinkle baking soda lightly on fabric sofas, leave it for 15 minutes, then vacuum it off. For leather, use a conditioner after cleaning to maintain suppleness.
Keep it looking fresh between deep cleans by booking our Part Time House Cleaning Service, which includes general dusting and upholstery care.

How to Clean Curtains

Determine the fabric type. Check the label for cleaning instructions — some curtains can be machine-washed, while others require dry cleaning.
Remove loose dust without taking them down. Use a vacuum with a brush attachment, starting from the top and moving downward. This prevents dust from resettling on cleaned areas.
Wash machine-safe curtains on a gentle cycle. Use mild detergent and cold water to avoid shrinking or fading. For delicate sheers, hand washing in lukewarm water is safer.
Dry and rehang quickly. To avoid wrinkles, hang the curtains back while slightly damp and allow them to air dry. If ironing is needed, follow the recommended heat setting on the label.
Pair curtain cleaning with a full-home refresh through our Spring Cleaning Service, which can tackle dust from every corner.

How to Clean Carpets

Vacuum regularly and thoroughly. Use slow, overlapping strokes to lift dirt from deep within the fibers. Empty the vacuum bag or canister frequently to maintain suction power.
Treat spills immediately. Blot (never rub) the area with a clean cloth and a mild detergent or diluted vinegar solution. Rubbing can push the stain deeper into the fibers and cause permanent damage.
Schedule deep cleans every 6–12 months. Use a steam cleaner or carpet shampooer for high-traffic areas, following the manufacturer’s guidelines. A deep clean helps remove embedded dirt and allergens that regular vacuuming can’t reach.
Dry carpets fully after cleaning. Use fans, open windows, or a dehumidifier to prevent musty odors from developing.

Extra Tips for Long-Lasting Freshness

Use mattress protectors and sofa covers to prevent stains and dust buildup.
Rotate mattresses and flip cushions regularly to ensure even wear.
Treat stains as soon as they happen — the longer they sit, the harder they are to remove.
Keep your home well-ventilated to reduce humidity and prevent odors.
After any major renovation or dusty project, book our Post Renovation Cleaning Service for a full dust and debris removal.

When to Call a Professional

Some cleaning tasks require professional expertise, especially if you’re dealing with:

Severe stains or spills that resist home remedies
Mold growth in fabric or foam
Large carpeted areas that are difficult to clean thoroughly
Delicate or specialty fabrics that need expert handling
SGhousecleaning can help with these and more, ensuring your home looks and feels its best without the risk of damage from improper cleaning.

FAQs

How often should I clean my mattress, sofa, curtains, and carpets?
Mattress: every 6 months; Sofa: every 3–6 months; Curtains: every 6–12 months; Carpets: every 6–12 months, with spot cleaning as needed.

Can I steam clean all upholstery?
Not all fabrics can handle steam cleaning. Always check care labels first, and test on a small area before cleaning the whole item.

What’s the safest DIY cleaning solution?
A mix of mild dish soap and water works for most fabrics. Baking soda is excellent for deodorising, and vinegar diluted with water can help remove certain stains — always test in an inconspicuous spot first.