Scotchgard is a popular brand of fabric protector that can help to protect your couch from spills, stains, and other types of damage.
Applying Scotchgard to your couch is a relatively simple process that can be done at home with a few basic supplies.
In this article, we’ll provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to Scotchgard a couch at home, as well as some tips and tricks for achieving the best results. Whether you’re looking to protect a brand-new couch or restore an old one, this article will provide you with all the information you need to get started.
How Do you Scotchgard a Couch at Home?
When I first heard about Scotchgard, I was skeptical about trying it out on my sofa as I knew after spending lots of money buying it, I would probably need to break the bank again to be able to afford a Scotchgard. However, since I needed to protect my favorite expensive furniture against anything that will ruin it’s aesthetic and even shorten its longevity, I decided why not do some research about this Scotchgard thing?
Therefore, I went online and researched a few of its benefits. When I realized just how much of a lifesaver it can be for my expensive couch, I researched a lot more about it, and that’s how I got deep down to using it at least once a year on all my upholstered furniture. Truly the experience has been amazing while saving on a lot of things including time and costs.
However, it’s important to note that not all furniture fabrics are suitable for Scotchgard application. Some fabrics may be too delicate or require special care, and applying Scotchgard may damage the fabric or change its appearance.
Before applying Scotchgard to your new furniture, be sure to check the manufacturer’s recommendations and test a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure that it won’t cause any damage or discoloration.
Here are the steps to follow when you want to apply Scotchgard on your sofa or couch.
Step 1: Vacuuming or Dusting off the Couch
A Scotchgard will work effectively on a clean surface. Therefore, before applying it I usually use a vacuum to remove every dust particle, food crumb, pet hair (because I keep pets), and any other form of dirt that may be lingering on my couch. I make sure to remove the cushions (removable) so I can reach every corner of the couch easily.
If you don’t have a vacuum, you can as well use a soft bristle brush or a soft cloth to dust off the couch. It is just as effective as using a vacuum only that you will need to use a lot of energy, you know with rubbing, brushing, and all that.
Step 2: Shampoo your Couch
Cleaning your couch doesn’t stop at vacuuming. However, with the right upholstery cleaner, you can shampoo your couch and leave it looking sparkling. Just make sure you use the right cleaner to avoid causing discoloration. In fact, make sure you test it first in a small area of your couch to ascertain that it is safe for use.
Step 3: Spot Test the Scotchgard
Before applying the Scotchgard on every part of your couch, you will need to ascertain that it is not going to cause discoloration. And the best way to do this is by applying a mild amount of it on a small area of your couch (like the back which is usually invisible).
Make sure it doesn’t get to any other surface, and to be on the safe side, you can put pieces of paper down so that the Scotchgard won’t get to the floor or wall, or anything that is near. Let the spray sit until it dries then confirm if there is any color change, if not you can proceed to use it.
Step 4: Cover the Floor and Couch’s Legs with a Drop Cloth
You will need to protect the legs of your couch and the floor and the best thing to use is a drop cloth. No matter how careful you would want to be, you will still need a drop cloth just to be safe.
Step 5: Ventilate the Room to Keep the Air Flowing
To avoid suffocation, make sure you keep the windows and doors open and if you have kids and pets, please send them outside for a while until you are done and dusted. Because Scotchgard is quite fumy and corrosive and without good airflow things might get a bit crazy, so yes, being safe is better.
Step 6: Apply the Scotchgard
Before applying the Scotchgard, make sure you shake the can gently then start spraying thin coats from one area of the couch to the other. Make sure you hold the can upright and it should be at least 9 inches away from you. Although the can says 6 inches, I found it to be really close and so 9 inches worked for me.
Let it dry (drying takes almost immediately) then repeat spraying for the second time while putting a bit more on areas more prone to spills and dirt like the cushions and the arms. The whole can is more than enough, and you might be surprised that there will be some remaining.
Step 7: Let It Dry
The Scotchgard dries almost immediately depending on the weather. If it’s a bit sunny then your couch will be ready for use in the next 30 minutes (it will have fully dried and no lingering smell of Scotchgard). But it won’t take long either even when the weather is gloomy outside, just make sure the windows and doors stay open.
Step 8: Put the Cushions Back On the Couch
After they have fully dried, you can now put on back the cushions, remove the drop cloth, and call the kids back in. Now you can be sure to give them their favorite drinks without worrying about your sofa being stained.
Does Scotchgard Come In Different Types?
Scotchgard is a fabric protectant spray and is suitable for couches or sofas and any other furniture upholstery. It comes in three different types giving you the convenience of choosing one that suits your couch or sofa fabric. They include:
- Scotchgard fabric water shield
- Scotchgard fabric craft water shield
- Scotchgard suede and Nubuck protector
Scotchgard Fabric Water Shield
Characteristics
- Suitable for upholstery furniture like cotton, silk, polyester, and nylon
- Not suitable for leather and suede
- Should not be applied on fabrics with an “X” tag
- Can be applied whenever you clean your couch
Scotchgard Fabric Craft Water Shield
characteristics
- Suitable for all types of furniture upholstery except for leather and suede
- Unlike Scotchgard fabric water shield, it can also be applied on knitted fabric
Scotchgard Suede and Nubuck Protector
Characteristics
- It can only be applied on furniture with leather and suede upholstery
What Precautions Should You Take While Applying Scotchgard?
There are measures you will need to put into consideration for your safety, and that of your couch and other furniture upholstery while applying Scotchgard. These include:
1. Proper Room Ventilation
Scotchgard is quite fumy and the last thing you would want is to suffocate every living creature in your home. It is best that you keep every opening for smooth airflow and if possible let everyone take a walk outside until you are done.
2. Hold the Scotchgard can at least 7 inches away from the couch
It is advised to hold the can 6 inches from the couch but while using it I found that to be quite close and so I hold mine at around 9 inches away.
3. Protect Couch Legs and the Floor
To prevent the Scotchgard from getting to the legs of the couch, floor, and any other surrounding furniture, make sure you cover them with a drop cloth.
4. Use the Right Scotchgard for your Type of Couch Fabric
Make sure you use the right Scotchgard depending on the type of furniture upholstery you have. Apart from Scotchgard suede and nubuck protector which is only suitable for leather and suede, the remaining two are suitable for all washable materials.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Does Scotchgard Last On a Sofa?
Scotchgard lasts for a period of 6 months on a sofa. However, according to Scotchgard the moment you clean your sofa, you should reapply Scotchgard frequently to guarantee maximum protection.
The best thing is that you can still keep your Scotchgard safely for use for the next 3 years and it would still work effectively.
What Does Scotchgard Do for Couches?
Scotchgard is a furniture upholstery protectant that helps minimize the extent of damages like wine spillage, and watermarks, which if penetrated further would cause tough stains that may be difficult to eliminate.
Therefore, if you apply Scotchgard on your couch, it will be protected against any form of dirt that is likely to ruin its aesthetic. Basically, Scotchgard protects couches against spillages, pet hairs, dust, and any other form of dirt.
Does Scotchgard Make the Fabric Stiff?
No! Scotchgard application doesn’t interfere with the texture of your furniture upholstery. However, when applying, it is important to spray it in thin coats repeatedly than spraying one thick coat. Plus, remember to give it time to dry in between coats.
Should you Scotchgard a New Furniture?
Scotchgard can be applied to new furniture to help protect it from spills, stains, and other types of damage. In fact, many furniture manufacturers recommend applying a fabric protector like Scotchgard to new furniture as part of the maintenance routine.
By applying Scotchgard to your new furniture, you can help prolong its lifespan and keep it looking clean and fresh. It can also make it easier to clean up spills and stains, as they will be less likely to penetrate the fabric fibers.
Can you Personally Scotchgard a Couch?
Yes, you can personally Scotchgard your couch at home. Applying Scotchgard to your couch is a relatively simple process that can be done with a few basic supplies. However, it’s important to follow the instructions carefully to ensure that you achieve the best results and avoid any potential damage to your furniture.
Before applying Scotchgard, make sure that your couch is clean and free of any dust, dirt, or debris. You should also test a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure that the fabric is compatible with Scotchgard and that it won’t cause any damage or discoloration.
To apply Scotchgard, simply spray it evenly over the surface of your couch, being careful not to saturate the fabric. Allow the Scotchgard to dry completely before using your couch again.
How Long Does the Scotchgard take to Dry?
The drying time for Scotchgard can vary depending on factors such as temperature, humidity, and air circulation in the room. However, in general, Scotchgard typically dries within 2-6 hours.
To ensure that the Scotchgard dries properly, it’s important to allow plenty of time for it to dry before using your couch again. Avoid sitting on the couch or touching the treated fabric until it is completely dry to the touch.
If you’re applying Scotchgard in a particularly humid environment or if the temperature is very low, it may take longer for the Scotchgard to dry. In this case, it’s best to wait until the conditions are more favorable before applying Scotchgard to your couch.
How Often Do you Have to Scotchgard a Couch?
It’s worth noting that Scotchgard is not a permanent solution and will need to be reapplied periodically to maintain its effectiveness.
The frequency of reapplication will depend on factors such as how often your couch is used and how much wear and tear it experiences.
Does Scotchgard Prevent Stains?
Scotchgard does not prevent stains from happening but it does prevent your couch or furniture upholstery from staining further. For instance, if you happen to spill wine on your couch, it will not penetrate into the cushion stuffing hence giving you some time to get a damp towel and spot-dry it.
However, the best way to prevent your couch from getting in contact with stains is by using couch covers which according to krostrade are easier to install and very easy to wash.
How Long Does Scotchgard Last On a Sofa?
The length of time that Scotchgard lasts on a sofa depends on various factors such as the frequency of use, the type of fabric, and the level of wear and tear the sofa experiences.
Generally, Scotchgard is designed to provide stain resistance and water repellency for up to a year, but the protection can start to wear off after several months.
Regular use and cleaning of the sofa can also cause the Scotchgard to degrade faster.
It’s important to note that Scotchgard is not a permanent solution and should be reapplied periodically for continued protection.
The manufacturer’s recommendations for reapplication can vary, but a good rule of thumb is to reapply every six months to a year or as needed based on usage.
Is Scotchgard Worth It On a Couch?
Whether Scotchgard is worth it on a couch depends on your individual needs and circumstances.
Scotchgard is a fabric protector that can help repel liquids and stains, making it easier to clean up spills and prevent permanent damage to your couch.
It can be particularly useful if you have children or pets in the home or if you frequently entertain guests who may accidentally spill food or drinks on your furniture.
However, Scotchgard is not a foolproof solution, and it won’t guarantee that your couch will never get stained.
Additionally, Scotchgard is not a substitute for regular cleaning and maintenance of your couch.
If you decide to use Scotchgard, it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and to reapply it periodically to maintain its effectiveness.
Overall, if you’re concerned about spills and stains on your couch and are willing to invest in protecting it, Scotchgard can be a worthwhile investment.
However, it’s important to weigh the cost of the product against your individual needs and the potential benefits to determine if it’s worth it for you.
Can I Sit On a Couch After Scotchgard?
Yes, you can sit on a couch after applying Scotchgard. Scotchgard is a fabric protector that is designed to be applied to upholstery, carpets, and other soft furnishings to help repel liquids and stains.
Once it has been applied and allowed to dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions, it is safe to sit on the couch.
However, it’s important to note that Scotchgard is not a cleaning solution and is not designed to remove stains that have already been set into the fabric.
Additionally, Scotchgard can sometimes cause fabrics to become slightly stiff or sticky, particularly if it is applied too heavily or not allowed to dry completely.
To avoid any discomfort, it’s a good idea to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and to test a small, inconspicuous area of the fabric before applying Scotchgard to the entire couch.
What Are the Disadvantages of Scotchgard?
While Scotchgard can be a useful tool for protecting upholstery and other soft furnishings, there are some potential disadvantages to consider:
- Health Concerns: Scotchgard used to contain perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), a chemical that has been linked to various health concerns. The current formula for Scotchgard no longer contains PFOA, but it still contains other chemicals that some people may be sensitive to.
- Environmental Impact: The chemicals used in Scotchgard can be harmful to the environment, particularly if they are not disposed of properly. Additionally, the manufacturing process for Scotchgard can also have negative environmental impacts.
- Not Foolproof: While Scotchgard can help repel liquids and stains, it’s not a foolproof solution. It won’t guarantee that your upholstery will never get stained, and it’s not a substitute for regular cleaning and maintenance.
- Cost: Scotchgard can be expensive, especially if you need to apply it frequently to maintain its effectiveness. The cost may not be worth it for everyone, particularly if you don’t have children or pets in the home or if you don’t entertain guests often.
- Potential for Stiffness: In some cases, Scotchgard can cause fabrics to become slightly stiff or sticky, particularly if it is applied too heavily or not allowed to dry completely. This can be uncomfortable and may impact the overall feel of the upholstery.
Overall, while Scotchgard can be a useful tool for protecting upholstery, it’s important to consider these potential disadvantages and weigh them against the benefits to determine if it’s the right choice for your individual needs.
How Effective Is Scotchgard?
Scotchgard is designed to be an effective tool for protecting upholstery and other soft furnishings from spills, stains, and other types of damage. It works by creating a barrier that repels liquids and prevents them from soaking into the fabric.
The effectiveness of Scotchgard can depend on various factors, including the type of fabric it is applied to, the level of wear and tear the fabric experiences, and how frequently it is cleaned and maintained.
In general, Scotchgard is most effective when it is applied correctly and according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
It’s important to note that Scotchgard is not a foolproof solution and won’t guarantee that your upholstery will never get stained, but it can help make spills and other types of damage easier to clean up and less likely to cause permanent damage.
Overall, Scotchgard can be an effective tool for protecting upholstery and other soft furnishings from spills and stains, but its effectiveness can vary depending on various factors.
If you decide to use Scotchgard, it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and to test a small, inconspicuous area of the fabric before applying it to the entire surface.
Additionally, regular cleaning and maintenance of the upholstery can help maintain its effectiveness over time.
Conclusion
Buying any type of furniture for example a couch is considered an investment since you need good money for that. Therefore, deriving ways of protecting it from any harm that will halt its durability is very important. And what other better upholstery protectant to use than Scotchgard?
Although Scotchgard doesn’t prevent stains from happening, it does prevent your furniture upholstery from staining further. Plus, it makes it easier to eliminate both mild and tough stains, whether it is a water stain or ink stain.
Lastly, although Scotchgard helps in minimizing stains, couch covers stand to be the best and offer maximum protection against any form of dirt on your couch including pet hairs, dust, and pet scratches. Plus, couch covers are easy to install, and most importantly very easy to clean, just toss into the washer, and boom! It is dry in the next minute and ready for use. they are also available in different colors, whether you want a blue couch cover or a slipcover you will definitely find one.
