Top 5 Common Sofa Stains in Malaysian Homes (And How to Remove Them)

Your sofa is the heart of your living room — a cosy gathering place for family, friends, and the occasional cup of kopi. But with everyday use, it’s bound to collect spills, smudges, and unsightly stains.

In this post, we’ll cover the 5 most common sofa stains found in Malaysian households — and how to deal with them effectively.

Common culprits: Curry, soy sauce, Milo, coffee, teh tarik

Why it’s tough: These stains are often oily or deeply pigmented, especially spicy or dark beverages.

Quick Fix:

• Blot immediately with a clean paper towel (don’t rub!).
• Mix a small amount of mild dish soap with warm water.
• Dab with a microfiber cloth until the stain lifts.
• For tougher stains, use a fabric-safe stain remover or consider a deep cleaning service.

💡When to Call Pros?
If the stain dries and leaves a yellow or orange tint — especially common with curry or sauces, professional sofa cleaning may be needed to restore the fabric without damage.

Common issues: Urine stains, drool, fur buildup, vomit

Why it’s tough: Pet urine can soak deep into the fabric and padding, leaving behind stubborn odours and bacteria.

Quick Fix:

• Blot fresh stains with tissue or a towel.
• Use a mix of white vinegar and water (1:1) to neutralize odours.
• Sprinkle baking soda over the area, let it sit for a few hours, then vacuum thoroughly.
• For pet hair, use a lint roller or rubber glove.

💡Pro Tip
If you have pets at home, consider scheduling professional sofa cleaning every 3–6 months to keep your sofa fresh and allergen-free.

Common issues: Discoloration, musty odor on headrests or armrests

Why it’s tough: Over time, natural oils from our skin and sweat can soak into the fabric or leather. In KL’s humid weather, this buildup can lead to stains and unpleasant smells — especially if your sofa gets a lot of use.

Quick Fix:

• Lightly spray a mixture of white vinegar and water.
• Use a clean cloth to blot.
• For leather sofas, wipe with a damp cloth and apply leather conditioner.

💡 Pro Tip:
If the fabric feels greasy or smells musty even after wiping, it might be time for a professional deep clean.

Common issues: Pens, markers, especially in homes with kids

Why it’s tough: Ink sets quickly and spreads fast.

Quick Fix:

• Lightly dab with rubbing alcohol on a cotton pad (test on a hidden spot first).
• Avoid over-saturating — ink can spread.
• Gently blot until the stain fades.

Common in: Humid KL homes with poor ventilation or air leaks

Why it’s tough: Mould can spread quickly and create health hazards.

Quick Fix:

• Use a soft brush to loosen spores.
• Mix vinegar with warm water and spray lightly.
• Allow to dry in sunlight if possible.
• For persistent mould issues, seek professional help immediately.

📌 Important: Always check your sofa’s material and cleaning label before applying any product. Some fabrics (like velvet or suede) may require special care.

Read Also: How Often Should You Clean Your Sofa?

While DIY tips work well for fresh or minor stains, deep-seated dirt and bacteria may still linger beneath the surface.

Professional sofa cleaning services like those we offer at PT Clean — can help:

✅ Eliminate stubborn stains and odours
✅ Remove allergens and germs
✅ Restore your sofa’s original look and comfort

Cleaning your sofa? Make sure you’re not accidentally voiding the warranty . Check out this quick do’s and don’ts guide.

✅ Safe for Most Sofas:

• Cold water blotting
• pH-neutral cleaners (always check the label)
• Microfiber cloths or soft sponges

❌ May Void Warranty:

• Steam cleaning (unless specifically approved)
• Harsh chemicals like bleach or ammonia
• Scrubbing with stiff brushes