Drink spillages are sometimes difficult to remove from sofas (Image: Getty)
Inevitable spills and are bound to happen in the . From chocolate smudges to wine spills, sofas often bear the brunt of them.
Sofas are hubs for social gatherings, often doubling as dining spaces. A study shows that 42 percent of people eat on their sofas.
This seasonal dining shift increases the risk of spills, reflected in a staggering 206 percent rise in searches for ‘remove chocolate stains’ and a 202 percent spike for ‘remove wine stain’ over the past month.
As many Brits are choosing to eat on their sofas rather than dine at the table, understanding how to tackle stains is key to keeping furniture pristine.
Monika Puccio, head of buying at , has offered expert advice on these mishaps.
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A sofa is an expensive item in the home (Image: Getty)
Puccio said: “The shift in dining habits, paired with the indulgence of the season, means sofas face an increased risk of spills and stains.
“With people enjoying their Christmas feasts and treats on the sofa, the seasonality of stains is clear. Preparing ahead with effective cleaning methods ensures your sofa can survive the festivities without permanent damage.”
One of the most common stains is drinks, particularly tea, coffee and red wine.
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Individuals can create a very simple solution using household items (Image: Getty)
How to remove stains from sofas
Coffee or tea spills
Hot drinks are a staple during the colder winter months but can leave behind stubborn stains.
For fabric sofas
Blot immediately to remove as much liquid as possible. Apply a solution of water, dish soap, and white vinegar, then blot again with clean water to remove residue.
For leather sofas
Wipe up the spill with a damp cloth, followed by a leather cleaner, to prevent discolouration.
Red wine stains
With searches for ‘remove wine stain’ up 202 percent, it seems the festive red wine remains a top concern.
For fabric sofas
Blot excess wine immediately with a clean cloth. Mix one part white vinegar with two parts water and a drop of dish soap, then gently dab the stain. Avoid rubbing, as this spreads the wine.
For leather sofas
Use a dry cloth to absorb the wine. Follow up with a leather-specific cleaner to protect the material.
A good way to protect the sofa is to use throws or washable slipcovers as a functional layer. Keep coasters and trays accessible for drinks and snacks.
Let’s not forget to have stain-removal products, like fabric-safe cleaners or leather wipes, ready for emergencies.