How To Fix A Chewed Couch

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Furniture damage is frequently a price to pay for owning a pet. Teeth and claws can reduce any plush material to ribbons in minutes — and that material may be a chair or couch. While a chewed couch is unsightly and often infuriating, you don't need to immediately throw the damaged furniture away. Restoring and repairing the couch is a realistic possibility, depending on the severity of the damage. Fixing a chewed couch requires some patience and diligence, but the results often save you the cost of a new sofa.

Step 1

Fill a spray bottle with a solution of equal parts water and white vinegar. Spray the mixture on any saliva stains left over from the chewing. Wipe the stains with a rag to lift them from the upholstery.

Step 2

Replace any stuffing that has been pulled out of the arms or the cushions. If the old stuffing is still usable, pack it back in through the holes caused by the chewing. If the stuffing is damaged, replace it with fresh foam or cotton.

Step 3

Sew any small holes shut with a sewing kit. Otherwise, iron a repair patch over the torn areas. The patch should be as close in color and texture as the surrounding couch fabric to make the repair less noticeable. Place a decorative pillow over any obvious repairs to help cover them up.

Step 4

Sand any damaged wood on the couch with fine sandpaper to help smooth the surface and reduce bite marks. Repaint or stain the wood with a paintbrush to camouflage the damage.

Step 5

Slide a slipcover over the couch if repairs are still too obvious for your liking. The slipcover hides all of the chewing damage, gives the couch a fresh color and appearance, and prevents the need to purchase a new couch. Place any decorative pillows over the slipcover.