How to Store a Sofa: Smart Ways to Keep It Clean and Safe

When you need to store a sofa, a large upholstered seating piece designed for multiple people, often used in living rooms. Also known as a couch, it's one of the most expensive and important pieces of furniture in your home. Storing it wrong can lead to mold, stains, sagging, or even permanent damage. Whether you’re moving, renovating, or just clearing space, how you store your sofa makes all the difference.

Storing a sofa isn’t just about tucking it away—it’s about protecting the frame, fabric, and cushion fill. A sofa storage, the practice of safely keeping a sofa out of daily use for an extended period requires more than a plastic cover. You need breathable materials, proper elevation, and a dry, temperature-controlled space. If you’re using a garage, a common but risky storage spot due to humidity and temperature swings, never put the sofa directly on the concrete. Use pallets or risers to lift it off the ground. Moisture from the floor can seep in and ruin the upholstery or cause wood frames to warp.

Before storing, clean it thoroughly. Vacuum deep into the seams, wipe down arms and legs, and treat any stains. Use a cotton sheet or a specialized furniture cover, a breathable fabric designed to protect upholstery without trapping moisture—never use plastic wrap. Plastic traps heat and moisture, which invites mold and mildew. If you’re storing it long-term, flip or rotate the cushions every few months to prevent uneven settling. Keep it away from direct sunlight, even in storage, to avoid fading.

Think about the sofa moving, the process of relocating a sofa, often the most physically demanding part of storage. If you’re moving it yourself, remove the legs if possible. Use furniture sliders on hardwood floors to avoid scratches. For sectional sofas, take them apart. Label each piece and keep screws and hardware in a sealed bag taped to the frame. This isn’t just helpful—it’s essential. You’ll thank yourself when it’s time to put it back together.

Storage isn’t just about space—it’s about time. A sofa stored right can last 10, 15, even 20 years. A poorly stored one might need replacing in two. That’s why people who’ve moved multiple times swear by the same method: elevate, cover, dry, and check. It’s simple, but most skip the steps. Don’t be one of them.

Below, you’ll find real advice from people who’ve done it—whether it’s storing a Lazy Boy recliner in a basement, keeping a sectional safe during a cross-country move, or protecting a velvet sofa in a humid climate. These aren’t theory tips. They’re proven tricks from real homes.