11:28 22-10-2025

Remove Coffee Stains from Upholstery with Salt and Lemon Juice

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Learn an easy, effective way to remove coffee stains from upholstery using salt and lemon juice. Follow clear steps to clean your sofa and avoid costly dry cleaning.

When Coffee Ruins the Mood

A spilled cup of coffee on the couch can feel like a small disaster. But before panic sets in, take a breath — quick action and a few simple household ingredients can save your upholstery, even if it’s light or delicate.

A Kitchen Secret That Works

The remedy might already be on your countertop: salt and lemon juice. Salt acts as a natural absorbent, soaking up the liquid before it sinks deeper into the fabric. Lemon juice, with its natural acidity, helps break down the coffee’s pigments and lighten the stain without harsh chemicals.

Step-by-Step Stain Removal

1. Blot the stain.

Start by gently dabbing the spot with a dry cloth or paper towel to absorb as much liquid as possible. Avoid rubbing — it only pushes the coffee further into the fibers.

2. Apply salt.

Cover the stained area with a generous layer of fine table salt. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes. The salt will draw out moisture and pigment, which you’ll notice as it darkens.

3. Remove salt and use lemon juice.

Brush away the salt and apply freshly squeezed lemon juice to the affected area. The natural acid works to dissolve any remaining color without harming the fabric.

4. Rinse with water.

After 5–7 minutes, use a damp sponge to wipe away the lemon juice. This prevents residue buildup or fabric damage.

5. Repeat if needed.

If the stain fades but doesn’t completely vanish, you can repeat the salt treatment.

6. Let it dry.

Finish by air drying the area or using a hairdryer on a cool setting.

Helpful Tips

This method works for most upholstery types, but it’s best to test it first on a hidden section of fabric to ensure safety. This small step can prevent unwanted discoloration or texture changes.

A simple trick from your kitchen can spare you the cost of professional cleaning — keeping your sofa fresh, spotless, and ready for another coffee moment.