You can quickly learn how to Scotchgard a sofa in two steps. In this guide, you will understand how to prepare everything and even the best method to apply Scotchgard. And if you’re curious about the product itself, we will discuss some common FAQS about it.
Before you proceed below, consider reading this article on how long Scotchgard lasts on a sofa. This should give you extra information regarding the usage of Scotchgard on furniture.
How Do You Scotchgard A Couch?
Take note that there are different Scotchgard protectors. There is also the Scotchgard Fabric Water Shield, which is typically what homeowners use for their couches. Always read your product’s label to ensure that you’re following the brand’s usage recommendations.
Step 1. Prepare the furniture and Scotchgard
Have some rags ready to wipe any excess product from potential overspray. You must also cover the sofa parts that you don’t want to coat, such as the non-fabric areas. If possible, use a spacious location when spraying Scotchgard on the sofa to avoid hitting other furniture items and walls.
Prepare the Scotchgard can by shaking it for several seconds. Then, test it on an inconspicuous spot on the sofa and rub it with a white cloth. This is called testing for colorfastness, and you can only proceed with the Scotchgard application if the white cloth doesn’t get stained.
You must know how to do the colorfast test when applying different cleaners and protectors on your sofa. You can also do a similar test when removing nail polish from sofa fabric to avoid fading and damaged furniture.
Step 2. Apply the Scotchgard
Hold the can at a distance of at least six inches from the couch and spray it all over. To ensure equal coating, start at the top corner and make a sweeping motion while holding the can. Move slowly and overlap each spray line a bit.
Wait for around two hours to let the first Scotchgard coat dry. Then, apply the second coat lightly and leave the couch overnight. The duration varies for every location, but ensure that no one uses the sofa during this period.
What Does Scotchgard Do For Couches?
Scotchgard is essentially a protective product for sofas. The brand offers different types such as the Scotchgard Fabric Water Shield, Scotchgard Fabric Crafts Water Shield, and Scotchgard Suede and Nubuck Protector. Use the appropriate protector for your type of sofa to keep it safe from spills and prevent stains.
Scotchgard Fabric Water Shield
You can use the Scotchgard Fabric Water Shield for most furniture upholstery like cotton, wool, silk, polyester, acrylic, and nylon. On the contrary, avoid applying it on non-washable materials or fabric with code X tags because they are incompatible with water and solvents. You can also test the product if your sofa is microfiber, but don’t apply Scotchgard Fabric Water Shield on leather and suede.
After applying, it’s expected that the fabric looks darker. The brand also recommends reapplying Scotchgard each time your sofa is washed, cleaned professionally, or as part of maintenance every six months. A can of Scotchgard should be enough for two chairs or one average-sized sofa.
Scotchgard Fabric Crafts Water Shield
Scotchgard Fabric Crafts Water Shield is also safe for your washable materials. Its advantage over the Fabric Water Shield variant is you can safely use it on knitted or quilted fabric. However, you must still avoid applying it on suede or leather.
Scotchgard Suede & Nubuck Protector
Those that have suede or nubuck materials on their sofa can safely use Scotchgard Suede and Nubuck Protector. On the contrary, do not apply this product to other fabric types. The brand also recommends the Fabric Water Shield variant for microsuede since cleaning microfiber sofas is different from actual natural suede leather.
Do your pets always lounge on your furniture? Using a fabric protector should only be your temporary solution. Read our tips for keeping the dog off the sofa.
Scotchgard Fabric Protector Vs Water Shield
The difference between Scotchgard Fabric Protector and Water Shield is that the latter is for heavy-duty and outdoor uses. The Scotchgard Heavy Duty Water Shield is best for patio furniture fabrics, sporting gear, leather, and even outerwear. It should also be safe for suede, nylon, canvas, polyester, cotton, and cotton blends.
On the other hand, Scotchgard Fabric Water Shield is used for indoor furniture such as your sofas and chairs. But when in doubt, do a quick test on your fabric to check for colorfastness.
Does Scotchgard Make Fabric Stiff?
Scotchgard should not change the texture of the fabric after application. However, you want to follow the recommended drying time of the manufacturer, which can be overnight or longer. If you accelerate its drying time or you use thick coatings, the fabric can feel flaky.
Should You Scotchgard New Furniture?
It is worth considering applying Scotchgard on new furniture because it acts as your protector for spills. It will keep liquids from seeping deeper into the sofa and potentially staining or damaging it. However, you can always slipcover the sofa if you’re uncomfortable with applying sprays on your couch.
Conclusion
Did you know that there are sprays that coat the sofa and protect it from liquids? You only need to understand how to Scotchgard a sofa and use the proper variant for your couch fabric. To recap, you will spray slowly and thinly at a distance of six inches.
Wait for the coat to dry before reapplying, and you’re done. Overall, it’s easy to do, but never overlook testing Scotchgard beforehand.