Washing a couch cover in the bath is an excellent method for handling large or delicate covers that may not be suitable for a washing machine.
To wash a couch cover in the bath, simply fill your bathtub with enough cool water to submerge the cushion covers, add a delicate detergent like Tide Free and Gentle or Grove Co. Care & Renew, and then let the covers soak while gently moving them around to release dirt and odors.
This method provides a gentle yet effective way to refresh your couch covers, especially if they are too large for a standard washing machine or made from delicate fabrics.
Preparing Your Couch Cover for Bath Washing
Before you begin the washing process, a little preparation can go a long way in achieving the best results and preventing dirt from redepositing on the fabric.
Pre-Wash Steps
- Vacuum Thoroughly: Use a vacuum cleaner with an upholstery attachment to remove loose dirt, dust, crumbs, and pet hair from the couch covers. This prevents the dirt from turning into muddy residue when wet.
- Spot Clean Stains: Address any noticeable stains or spills before submerging the entire cover. Lightly dab the stained area with a suitable fabric cleaner or a mixture of water and a small amount of delicate detergent, then blot with a clean cloth. Avoid harsh scrubbing, which can damage the fabric.
- Check Fabric Care Tag: Even though you're hand-washing, it's always wise to check the care label on your couch cover for any specific warnings or instructions regarding water temperature or detergents.
Step-by-Step Guide to Washing in the Bath
Washing in the bathtub allows for greater control and gentler handling of your couch covers.
Gathering Your Supplies
Before you start, make sure you have the necessary items ready:
- Clean Bathtub: Ensure your tub is thoroughly cleaned to avoid transferring any residue to your covers.
- Cool Water: Essential for preventing shrinkage and color fading.
- Delicate Detergent: As recommended by Bell and Dixon, use a gentle formula like Tide Free and Gentle or Grove Co. Care & Renew. These are free of harsh dyes and perfumes, making them ideal for sensitive fabrics and skin.
- Clean Towels: For blotting excess water.
- Optional: A soft brush or sponge for light scrubbing on stubborn spots.
The Washing Process
Follow these steps for an effective bath washing experience:
- Fill the Tub with Cool Water: Begin by filling your bathtub with enough cool water to fully submerge your couch cushion covers. Cool water helps to prevent shrinkage and color bleeding, which is crucial for upholstery.
- Add Delicate Detergent: Pour the recommended amount of your chosen delicate detergent (e.g., Tide Free and Gentle or Grove Co. Care & Renew) into the water. Swish the water gently with your hand to mix the detergent evenly.
- Submerge the Covers: Carefully place your couch covers into the soapy water, ensuring they are fully submerged. If you have multiple covers, wash them one or two at a time, depending on the size of your tub and the covers, to avoid overcrowding.
- Soak and Agitate: Let the covers soak in the water for at least 30 minutes to an hour. During this time, gently move them around to help release dirt and odors. You can use your hands to gently agitate the fabric, mimicking the tumbling action of a washing machine but with much less intensity. If there are heavily soiled areas, you can lightly rub them together.
- Drain and Rinse Thoroughly: Once you feel the covers are clean, drain the dirty water from the tub. Refill the tub with clean, cool water and gently press down on the covers to release the soapy water. Repeat this rinsing process several times until the water runs clear and no suds remain. This is a critical step to prevent detergent residue from attracting new dirt or causing skin irritation.
- Gently Squeeze Excess Water: After the final rinse, carefully lift each cover out of the tub and gently squeeze out as much excess water as possible. Avoid twisting or wringing the fabric aggressively, as this can damage the fibers or alter the cover's shape. You can also lay them flat on clean, dry towels and roll them up to absorb more water.
Drying Your Couch Covers
Proper drying is essential to maintain the shape and integrity of your couch covers.
Air Drying Best Practices
- Air Dry is Key: Always air dry couch covers washed in the bath. High heat from a dryer can cause shrinkage, fading, and damage to the fabric, especially if the covers are made from natural fibers or have delicate details.
- Choose a Drying Location: Hang the covers over a sturdy clothesline, a drying rack, or a shower curtain rod. Ensure good air circulation to promote even drying and prevent mildew. If drying outdoors, choose a shaded area to prevent sun-fading.
- Reshape While Damp: While the covers are still slightly damp, it can be helpful to put them back onto your couch cushions. This allows them to dry in their correct shape, helping them fit snugly and prevent wrinkles or misshaping.
- Complete Drying: Ensure the covers are completely dry before putting them back on the couch for long-term use. Dampness can lead to mildew and unpleasant odors.
Why Hand Wash in the Bath?
Hand washing couch covers in the bathtub offers several advantages, making it a preferred method for many homeowners:
- Ideal for Large Items: Couch covers are often too bulky to fit comfortably in a standard washing machine, even a large-capacity one. The bathtub provides ample space for full submersion and maneuvering.
- Gentle on Delicate Fabrics: If your couch cover is made from delicate materials like linen, certain types of cotton blends, or has intricate weaving, hand washing prevents the harsh agitation of a machine that could cause damage, stretching, or pilling.
- Better Control: You have complete control over the water temperature, the amount of agitation, and the thoroughness of the rinse, allowing for a customized and careful cleaning process.
- Cost-Effective: It saves on dry cleaning bills for covers that are labeled "dry clean only" but can safely be hand-washed with care.
