Whether you’re a true ‘couch potato’ or not, most people still spend a lot of time sitting on their couch, so dirt, crumbs, and stains are bound to accumulate over time. Since a couch takes center stage in the living room, it’s important to know how to keep it clean. From minimizing the impact of accidental spills to freeing your couch from everyday debris, our cleaning pros have the answers that will teach you how to clean a couch effectively!

How to Clean the Sofa

Couch cleaning strategies vary, but generally speaking, you’ll want to wipe the sofa down using the appropriate couch upholstery cleaner. Focus on scrubbing the stained areas, then allow the area to dry before you assess your success at removing the stain.

How to clean a couch successfully often comes down to using the right cleaning solution on your particular couch fabric. Here are some things to consider when cleaning each type of fabric.

How to Clean a Cloth Couch

Learning about cleaning furniture fabric takes a little practice and patience. What works best for one fabric couch may not work well for another. So, use these tips the next time your cloth sofa requires a thorough cleaning, but be sure to adjust your technique based on the color and specific type of fabric.

• Brush the couch. Use a clean white towel or stiff brush to loosen anything that has dried onto the couch.
• Apply baking soda. Sprinkle baking soda on the entire couch. Leave it for 20 minutes to an hour. Then vacuum the baking soda up with a brush attachment.
• Make a DIY couch cleaner. While the baking soda sets in, you can concoct a simple cleaner to remove any remaining stains. Combine 1 tsp dishwashing liquid, 1 tbsp -white vinegar, and 1 cup warm water in a spray bottle. Next, add 1 tsp of baking soda and put the top on the spray bottle. It’s best to create this solution over a sink to avoid a mess. (Baking soda and vinegar create a lot of bubbles when combined!)
• Wipe down the couch. Spray a clean white cloth with the cleaning solution and use it to gently dab and rub any stains on the fabric. Alternatively, wipe down the entire sofa with the solution for a good cleaning.
• Let the fabric dry. Leave the couch to dry for a few hours. Do not sit on the couch or place anything on it during this time.

How to Clean a Microfiber Couch

When it comes to DIY couch cleaning, rubbing alcohol can be a real lifesaver—especially when dealing with microfiber sofas. As previously mentioned, be sure to check that tag and test the solution on a small area before using it to clean the entire couch. The cleaning code “S” (for “solvent”) means rubbing alcohol is a great option.

• Scrub with rubbing alcohol. Working section by section, spray an area with rubbing alcohol and then scrub with a white or light-colored sponge (so no color transfers from the sponge to the couch while you scrub). You should see the stains lift onto the sponge as you go.
• Brush in circles. The couch should dry quickly because alcohol evaporates rapidly. Once it’s dry, use a dry scrub brush to fluff the fabric. It’s best to brush using a circular motion.
• Repeat the process with distilled water. If there are any water stains on the couch (and both water and solvent cleaning are acceptable), follow the same cleaning process mentioned, but replace the alcohol with distilled water.

How to Clean a Suede Couch

If you’ve ever wondered how to clean a suede couch, we have some tips that can help restore its original luster. Suede is a popular choice for sofas because it looks good and feels very comfortable. Unfortunately, suede material also has a reputation for being difficult to maintain. Therefore, a little extra care is required for cleaning furniture fabric on your suede couch. Here are our tips for cleaning a suede couch:

• Refresh your suede couch with a damp cloth. Avoid getting the suede too wet. Squeeze as much water out of a washcloth as possible before applying it to the couch. The damp cloth will remove surface dirt and debris without damaging the suede material.
• Find a product designed specifically to clean suede. As we have recommended several times before, always test any new cleaning product in a small, less-visible area of the couch before using it all over. Dab a little area of the couch with the solution and wait about 20 minutes to see how it reacts with the material. If you can’t find special suede cleaners, try a little distilled white vinegar.
• A rubber eraser can be used to gently wipe away stubborn stains. This is especially helpful for ink and crayon stains that have become embedded in the suede over time.
• For wet stains, blot up as much of the moisture as you can. Apply a suede-friendly stain treatment, and let it sit for a few minutes. Rinse the couch with a clean, damp washcloth. Dry the area with a hair dryer.

How to Clean a Velvet Couch

If you’re curious about how to clean a couch made of velvet, patience is key. Velvet has a well-earned reputation for being high-maintenance. While velvet sofas don’t require any special equipment or supplies to clean, they do require close attention and care. Velvet should be vacuumed weekly to keep it in the best condition possible. If your velvet couch requires a deeper clean, follow these steps:

• Clean stains with paper towels first. Sop up as much moisture as possible. If the stain is solid, use a butter knife to lift as much of it off the material as possible. Then mix a few drops of dishwasher detergent with some warm water and gently blot the stain; never rub it.
• To address creases and wrinkles in the fabric, try using a steam cleaner (one used for clothes). Start on the lowest temperature setting, and slowly work your way up to remove wrinkles.
• Once the couch is dry, use a soft, dry brush to keep it looking brand new.

How to Clean Couch Cushions

How to clean couch cushions successfully depends on the material they are made of. Therefore, you’ll need to choose a cleaning method that works well on the cushion material you have. Removable cushions are a little easier to clean since you can toss them right in the washing machine, provided they are washable. If not, here are a few best practices to keep in mind when cleaning any kind of couch cushion:

• If you have pets, try using a pair of rubber gloves to start your cleaning efforts. Rubbing your gloved hands over pet fur is a quick and easy way to remove the hair from your cushions.
• Next, vacuum the entire couch, paying attention to the little nooks and crannies where crumbs and other things are prone to fall.
• Use a solvent-based cleaner that’s recommended for the fabric you have. Don’t forget to run a spot test on a small area before using the cleaner all over your cushions.
• If you can’t find a recommended cleaner, try mixing a small amount of mild dish detergent with warm water. Add a little to an upholstery brush, and gently scrub any stains. If this method is effective, apply it to the rest of your cushions.

Cleaning couch cushions that can be removed is one thing; cleaning couch cushions that cannot be removed is a little more challenging. So it’s time to bring the heat in the form of steam! Applying steam to specific areas of your cushions is a great way to remove those stubborn stains. Since most clothing steamers are portable, you can get into even those hardest-to-reach spaces.

Nail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It occurs when fungi infect one or more of your nails, leading to discoloration, thickening, and crumbling of the nail edges.

While medical treatments are available, many people prefer to try home remedies to combat this persistent issue. This article explores effective home treatments for nail fungus, offering natural and accessible solutions for healthier nails.

Home treatments for nail fungus

It is often stubborn and challenging to treat, but various home remedies can help eliminate the fungus and restore healthy nails. Here are effective treatments to say goodbye to toenail fungus.

1. Baking soda

Add baking soda to a foot soak to try to heal the affected toenail. You can also make a paste of baking soda with a minimal amount of water and apply it directly to the foot. Allow the paste to sit on the affected area for 10 to 20 minutes, then rinse with warm water and dry the foot thoroughly.

Baking soda can also be sprinkled in shoes like foot powder. Sprinkle on some baking soda, then shake the shoes gently to distribute the powder. Let the shoes sit for at least 24 hours, then shake out any remaining baking soda.

You can also sprinkle baking soda onto the foot. Once applied to a dry foot, put on clean socks. Sodium bicarbonate, the active ingredient in baking soda, can wick away moisture while healing properties work to reduce toenail fungus.

2. Vicks VapoRub

One of the more popular over-the-counter remedies for treating toenail fungus is using Vicks VapoRub. Mentholated topical ointments contain the natural ingredients menthol, oil of eucalyptus, and camphor. Use Vicks alone or in conjunction with other treatments and medications. Clean feet and apply a small amount of Vicks VapoRub daily.

3. Listerine

Soaking an infected nail in the OTC product Listerine can also help reduce or kill toenail fungus, due to its antifungal and antimicrobial activity. Commonly used as a mouthwash, Listerine applied to the affected toe or toenail for 20 minutes twice a day can effectively reduce signs of onychomycosis. Alternatively, you can make a foot bath with Listerine, using equal parts warm water and Listerine and adding one cup of Epsom salts.

4. Athlete’s foot medication

Athlete’s foot sprays, powders, and creams help stop fungal growth before it develops on the toenail or surrounding flesh. Brand-name products that you can purchase without a prescription include Tinactin (tolnaftate), Micatin (miconazole), Lamisil (terbinafine), and Lotrimin AF (clotrimazole).

5. Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is known for its antimicrobial and antifungal properties, making it a beneficial remedy for nail fungus. It contains medium-chain fatty acids that can penetrate the fungal cell membranes. The fatty acids in coconut oil, particularly lauric acid, help dissolve the cell walls of fungi, leading to their destruction.

Application:

• Clean and dry the affected area.
• Apply a small amount of coconut oil to the infected nail and surrounding skin.
• Massage gently until the oil is absorbed.
• Repeat this process two to three times daily.

Ensure to use virgin coconut oil for the best results. There are generally no side effects, but always perform a patch test if you have sensitive

6. Hydrogen peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide can kill the fungus that grows on toenails. You can use hydrogen peroxide for toenail fungus by wiping it on your infected toes or toenails with a clean cloth or cotton swab. A hydrogen peroxide foot soak can also be used. Mix 1/8 cup of hydrogen peroxide (or several capfuls) to four cups of cool water and soak feet for 10 to 20 minutes. Rinse feet with warm water and pat dry.

7. Black tea

Soaking feet in plain tea can also be beneficial in treating toenail or foot fungus. Black tea contains tannic acid that dries out the feet, kills bacteria, and helps to close the foot’s pores to reduce sweating. Boil two quarts of water then add five to six tea bags. Allow the solution to cool and soak feet for 30 minutes. Use this foot soak daily if desired.

8. Soaking feet in vinegar

Another home remedy to treat toenail fungus includes the use of apple cider vinegar foot soak. Vinegar is an antifungal ingredient that can be mixed with water to create a foot soak. Its acetic acid component helps to whiten discolored toenails and stop the spread of the infection to other toes. Try one part vinegar to two parts warm water and soak feet for 20 minutes daily. If the smell is too overwhelming, a few drops of essential oils can be added to make the experience more pleasant. White vinegar can be used as an alternative as both are equally effective.

9. Garlic

Garlic is a potent antimicrobial plant. For topical treatment, chop cloves of garlic and leave them on the affected nails for 30 minutes daily for a week. Use raw garlic sparingly, as it can result in a chemical burn.

Ask a pharmacist about herbal supplements that contain garlic. These supplements can be taken orally to not only treat skin infections but also can help high blood pressure, heart disease, certain cancers, and lower the risk of tick bites. Garlic supplements should not be taken by people with stomach ulcers, digestion problems, or bleeding disorders. It might also make birth control pills less effective. Talk to a healthcare professional before taking oral garlic supplements.

Conclusion

Nail fungus can be a stubborn and persistent problem, but various home treatments offer effective solutions to combat this condition. While these remedies are generally safe and natural, it is important to monitor your skin’s response and consult a healthcare professional if the infection persists or worsens. Combining these treatments with good hygiene practices can help restore your nails to their healthy, fungus-free state.

Kidney disease, often termed chronic kidney disease (CKD), is a progressive condition where the kidneys gradually lose their function over time. This can lead to serious health complications, as the kidneys play a crucial role in filtering waste products from the blood, balancing bodily fluids, regulating blood pressure, and contributing to the production of red blood cells.

Early detection is crucial for managing the disease and preventing further complications. Here are ten signs that may indicate you have kidney disease:

1. Fatigue and Weakness

One of the early signs of kidney disease is feeling tired and weak. This is because kidneys are responsible for filtering waste from the blood. When they are not functioning properly, waste builds up in the body, leading to fatigue.

Additionally, kidney disease can cause anemia, a condition where the body has a lower than normal count of red blood cells. This also contributes to feelings of weakness and tiredness because there are not enough red blood cells to carry oxygen to the muscles and brain, leading to a general sense of fatigue.

2. Swelling (Edema)

Swelling in the legs, ankles, feet, face, and hands can be a sign of kidney disease. This occurs because the kidneys are not able to remove excess fluid and sodium from the body, leading to fluid retention. This swelling, known as edema, can be particularly noticeable in the lower extremities due to gravity.

In severe cases, this can cause a significant increase in body weight and can be uncomfortable and debilitating. Persistent swelling should be evaluated by a healthcare provider as it may indicate worsening kidney function.

3. Changes in Urination

Kidney disease can cause noticeable changes in urination, which may include:

• Increased frequency: Particularly at night (nocturia), which can disrupt sleep.
• Decreased frequency: Producing less urine than usual despite adequate fluid intake.
• Foamy urine: Excessive bubbles in the urine can indicate proteinuria, a condition where protein is present in the urine.
• Dark or discolored urine: This may signal blood in the urine, a potential indicator of kidney problems.
• Painful urination: This could be a sign of a urinary tract infection or kidney stones, both of which can impact kidney function.

These changes are often among the earliest signs of kidney disease and should not be ignored.

4. Shortness of Breath

Kidneys help balance the levels of minerals and fluids in the body. When they are not functioning correctly, fluid can build up in the lungs, causing shortness of breath. This condition, known as pulmonary edema, can make even simple activities like walking or climbing stairs challenging.

Additionally, anemia associated with kidney disease can lead to decreased oxygen delivery to tissues, contributing to this symptom. Patients may feel out of breath with minimal exertion or even at rest.

5. High Blood Pressure

The kidneys play a crucial role in regulating blood pressure. They do this by controlling the amount of fluid in the blood and releasing the hormone renin, which regulates blood pressure. Damaged kidneys are less effective at controlling blood pressure, which can lead to hypertension.

Conversely, high blood pressure can also damage the kidneys, creating a vicious cycle. Uncontrolled high blood pressure can accelerate the progression of kidney disease and lead to other complications, such as heart disease and stroke.

6. Persistent Itching

Kidney disease can lead to a build-up of waste products in the blood, causing persistent itching (pruritus). This is because the kidneys are not effectively filtering these waste products out of the body.

Additionally, imbalances in minerals such as calcium and phosphorus can contribute to skin irritation and itching. This itching can be widespread or localized and can be severe enough to interfere with sleep and daily activities.

7. Metallic Taste in Mouth and Ammonia Breath

A build-up of waste products in the blood (uremia) can lead to a metallic taste in the mouth and breath that smells like ammonia. This can affect appetite and cause weight loss.

Many patients describe this as having a constant bad taste in their mouth, which can lead to a decreased interest in eating, further contributing to weight loss and malnutrition. Proper nutritional support and management are crucial for patients experiencing these symptoms.

8. Nausea and Vomiting

Toxins that accumulate due to reduced kidney function can cause nausea and vomiting. This is often seen in more advanced stages of kidney disease and can significantly affect a person’s quality of life and nutritional status.

The build-up of waste products in the blood, particularly urea, can irritate the gastrointestinal tract, leading to discomfort and the urge to vomit. Persistent nausea and vomiting can result in loss of appetite, dehydration, and weight loss, all of which can exacerbate the underlying kidney issues.

Managing these symptoms often requires dietary changes and medications prescribed by a healthcare provider.

9. Trouble Concentrating

Anemia and the build-up of toxins can also affect brain function, leading to trouble concentrating, memory issues, and dizziness. This condition, often referred to as “brain fog,” can make it difficult to perform daily tasks and affect overall cognitive function.

Patients may find it challenging to focus on work, engage in conversations, or remember simple tasks. The lack of oxygen-rich blood and the presence of waste products in the bloodstream impact brain activity, highlighting the importance of addressing anemia and other contributing factors in kidney disease management.

10. Your Skin Becomes Dry And Itchy

A normal and healthy pair of kidneys perform many tasks for the body. They help in removing toxins and wastes from the body, maintain the right amount of minerals in the body, promote healthy and strong bones, and make red blood cells. Apart from all these functions, they also help in maintaining healthy and hydrated skin.

Thus, dry and itchy skin is an indication that your kidneys are no longer able to maintain the right balance of minerals and nutrients in the body. Itching usually happens when there is an accumulation of uric acid and other waste products and build-up on the skin.

11. Pain

Pain in the back or sides where the kidneys are located can be a sign of kidney disease. This pain can indicate kidney stones, a kidney infection (pyelonephritis), or other kidney-related issues.

Polycystic kidney disease (PKD), a genetic disorder, can cause large, fluid-filled cysts on the kidneys, leading to chronic pain and discomfort. The pain associated with kidney stones is often severe and can come in waves, radiating to the lower abdomen and groin.

If you experience persistent or severe pain in these areas, it is important to seek medical attention for appropriate diagnosis and treatment.

Conclusion

Recognizing the signs and symptoms of kidney disease early can significantly improve the chances of effective management and slow the progression of the disease. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is crucial to consult a healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation.

Early diagnosis and intervention can help manage the disease, maintain kidney function, and prevent complications. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is vital for supporting kidney health. This includes:

• Balanced Diet: Eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins while limiting salt, sugar, and processed foods can help manage blood pressure and blood sugar levels, reducing the strain on your kidneys.
• Regular Exercise: Engaging in regular physical activity can help control blood pressure, improve heart health, and manage weight, all of which are beneficial for kidney health.
• Hydration: Staying well-hydrated helps the kidneys clear toxins from the body. However, if you have kidney disease, your doctor may recommend a specific fluid intake to manage fluid balance.
• Avoiding Smoking and Limiting Alcohol: Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can damage the kidneys and increase the risk of kidney disease.
• Monitoring Blood Pressure and Blood Sugar: Regularly checking and managing blood pressure and blood sugar levels can prevent kidney damage, especially for individuals with hypertension or diabetes.

For those at higher risk, such as individuals with a family history of kidney disease, diabetes, hypertension, or other underlying health conditions, regular check-ups, blood tests, and urine tests are crucial for early detection and management of kidney disease.

In summary, being aware of the symptoms of kidney disease and taking proactive steps to maintain kidney health can significantly impact overall well-being. If you suspect any issues with your kidneys, seek medical advice promptly to ensure the best possible outcome.