Tested, trusted, and totally washable: Inside our machine washable sofa covers

Between juggling work, family, pets and maybe the occasional Netflix marathon, the last thing you want is a sofa that demands a PhD in cleaning instructions. For many of us, keeping track of “dry clean only” labels and complicated care guides feels like a cruel joke. And honestly? Most companies don’t make it any easier.

That’s why machine washable sofa covers are such a breath of fresh air. They’re made for real life: the coffee spills, the pizza nights, the puppy pawprints. They let you get back to living without the stress of “did I just ruin my sofa?” At Comfort Works, we believe sofa care should be seamless. No mysteries, no maybes. Just beautiful covers you can throw in the wash and trust to come out looking good.

We are going to take you behind the seams with our Jr Product Manager Joe to reveal how we make machine washable covers that actually last, plus his expert tips on what to do (and what not to do) when it comes to sofa care.

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(Image credit: iStock)

Why is traditional upholstery hard to clean?

If you’ve ever spilled a drink on your sofa and watched it sink within seconds, you’ll know the frustration of traditional upholstery. Unlike removable covers, fixed upholstery doesn’t give you many options once the damage is done. Stains get trapped in the fibres, smells linger and the only way out usually involves expensive professional cleaning.

Spot cleaning might buy you some time, but it’s rarely perfect, especially if you’re dealing with light fabrics or stubborn marks like red wine or coffee. And when it comes to dry-clean-only slipcovers, the struggle is just as real. They might look sleek on day one, but every new stain means another trip to the cleaners and another dent in your wallet.

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(Image credit: Pexels)

Why can’t some things be machine washed?

It comes down to how the fabric and structure are made. Many upholstered sofas use materials that shrink, stretch or even warp when exposed to water and heat. Some dyes aren’t colourfast, meaning they’ll bleed or fade in the wash. And with stitched-on upholstery, there’s simply no way to remove the fabric without damaging the frame or cushions.

The truth is, most sofas just aren’t designed with everyday life in mind. They’re built for showrooms, not for pizza nights, pets or kids who treat the cushions like a trampoline. Which is why more and more people are turning to machine washable sofa covers that can actually keep up with the messiness of modern living. Comfort Works has machine washable sofa covers made with performance fabrics that have been tried and tested.

“We have lab tested the shrinkage rate of every fabric to ensure it is within a safe range so that it can fit back on to the cushion after washes,” explains Joe, our Jr Product Manager. 

“We have also tested the colourfastness level to ensure that the dye quality can withstand multiple washes.”

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(Image credit: iStock)

How do we test our machine washable sofa covers?

We follow ISO standards for all our sofa covers so you can be guaranteed of its qualities. For machine washability we follow the ISO 3759-2011, ISO 5077-2007 and ISO 6330-2012. 

What does each of these do, and why do they matter?

1. ISO 3759:2011: Preparation, marking and measuring of test fabrics

This standard sets out how we must prepare, mark and measure fabric swatches, garments or assemblies before and after washing or other treatments.

  • It ensures consistency: We always start from the same baseline (size, shape, marks) before testing.
  • It helps standardise how shrinkage or distortion is measured across different fabrics.
  • In practice, it means we cut and mark samples in a precise way, so when we wash them, our measurement of dimensional change (shrinkage or growth) is accurate.

Without this standard, comparisons between “before” and “after” could be inconsistent or misleading, and that would erode trust in the “washability” claim.

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We pre-shrink our fabrics to make sure you have no fit issues after machine washing your couch cover. (Image credit: Comfort Works)

2. ISO 5077:2007: Measuring how fabric changes size after washing and drying

Once a fabric has undergone washing and drying (according to a defined procedure), ISO 5077 defines how to measure and report the change in dimensions (i.e. shrinkage or stretching).

  • It tells us exactly how to compare the “before” and “after” dimensions.
  • The change is expressed as a percentage: A negative value means shrinkage, a positive value means some extension.
  • Because this is standardised, we can set thresholds (e.g. “no more than 3% shrinkage”) that are meaningful and fair to customers.

In other words, ISO 5077 gives us a repeatable, quantifiable way to assess how a fabric performs under realistic washing conditions.

Please note: All of Comfort Works couch cover fabrics are pre-shrunk, so you won’t experience any issues when you machine wash it. 

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Our Mod Boucle couch covers (pictured in Cream) have a liquid-repellent coating, keeping your sofa safe from spills. (Image credit: Comfort Works)

3. ISO 6330:2012: Domestic washing and drying procedures

This standard establishes the washing and drying protocols we must use when testing textiles. That includes factors like water temperature, machine type, agitation, detergent, and drying (line dry, tumble dry, etc.).

  • It ensures the wash/dry cycle is comparable across labs and manufacturers.
  • There are multiple “domestic wash” programmes (e.g. delicate, normal) and drying modes.
  • Using ISO 6330 means our testing simulates how a customer might actually wash the cover at home.

Because ISO 6330 is broadly accepted, our results are more meaningful, and easier for customers (or third parties) to verify or compare.

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(Image credit: Pexel)

Why this trio matters to Comfort Work’s couch covers

These three standards work together like a testing pipeline:

  1. ISO 3759 ensures we prepare and measure fabric consistently.
  2. ISO 6330 defines how we wash and dry under controlled, repeatable settings.
  3. ISO 5077 tells us exactly how to measure the dimensional change afterward.

When we say a cover is “machine washable,” it’s not just marketing, it’s backed by rigorous, standardised testing. That means you’re less likely to get unpleasant surprises like excessive shrinkage or distortion after a few washes. Still, customer feedback is always important to us. 

“We always listen to our customers in terms of feedback,” says Joe. “Not all lab results reflect real life usage, that is why we update our fabric option library often. This is not just to provide you with the latest trends, but to also improve our fabric quality standards.”

How to wash sofa covers safely?

We hear your questions. Can I wash my couch covers in the washing machine? Absolutely. How do I wash my couch covers without shrinking? By following our detailed washing instructions.To give you the best insights for all your questions, we’ve spoken to our Jr Product Manager, Joe on the do’s and don’ts of washing sofa covers. 

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CW’s Jr Product Manager Joe. (Image credit: Comfort Works)

The do’s of machine washable sofa covers

  1. Turn the covers inside out if possible. This helps protect the outer surface from rubbing against the drum or other fabrics, reducing friction and keeping textures and colours looking fresh.
  2. Re-zip the covers before washing, as it helps keep their shape during the wash. It also prevents zippers from catching on other fabrics or seams.
  3. Test any detergent on hidden parts of the cover on the sofa, to make sure it does not cause damage to the fabric. Even gentle detergents can behave differently depending on the fabric type or dye.

The don’ts of machine washable sofa covers 

  1. Do not bleach the covers. It might sound like a quick fix for tough stains, but bleach can weaken fibres, strip away colour and damage protective finishes. 
  2. Do not use warm or hot water. Hot water can cause certain fabrics to shrink or lose their shape over time. Always stick to cold or cool settings. They’re just as effective for everyday cleaning and much kinder to the material.
  3. Do not tumble dry at high heat. High temperatures can cause shrinkage, warping or fading. 

How often should you machine wash CW sofa covers? 

You should ideally machine wash your sofa covers once every season to ensure it is fresh. At most you may wash them once a month. Our couch covers are durable and made to be used frequently. If you’re concerned about stains, opt for our couch covers with stain-proof protection as you can spot clean issues and machine wash them:

Keep in mind that our liquid-repellent couch covers (with EzGuard technology) are not intended for frequent washes as the coating to protect its surface can be weakened by multiple washes. So stick to washing them once a season. 

How can I keep my sofa covers from fading in the wash?

The best way to prevent fading starts with the fabric itself. Look for materials that have a colourfast grade of 4 or higher. This means the fabric meets industry standards for resisting colour loss, even after repeated washing. A grade of 3 or above is considered good for maintaining vibrancy through everyday wear and care.

At Comfort Works, all our fabrics are tested to meet or exceed these colourfast benchmarks. This means the colours of your couch covers stay rich and true wash after wash.

What’s your advice on drying (line vs tumble-dry) sofa covers? 

We would suggest air dry or line dry by hanging the fabric away from direct sunlight ensures the fabric recovers its shape and size naturally. That is the ideal way to air dry your covers as it does not damage the fabric. Certain fabrics can be tumble-dried on low to medium heat.

Summary: What to remember about machine washable sofa covers

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(Image credit: Comfort Works)

Machine washable sofa covers make sofa care easy. At Comfort Works, every fabric is tested to ISO standards for shrinkage, durability and colourfastness, so your covers keep their fit and colour wash after wash.

“Every fabric has its own characteristics, so the washing method may differ from one to another,” says CW Jr Product Manager Joe Joe. “Please refer to their details on our website or the sample swatch you received to make sure you follow the washing instructions.”

Ready to make sofa care effortless? 

IKEA HOVAS sofa: A discontinued classic worth holding on to

The IKEA HOVAS 3-seater may no longer be in stores, but it’s still beloved for its roomy proportions, deep seats, and laid-back comfort. In fact, even the armchair and footstool from the same collection make for cosy and comfortable living room pieces. 

Whether you’ve had yours for years, picked it up second-hand, or are thinking about reviving it with a custom couch cover — this guide has everything you need. We’ll cover dimensions, reviews, how to tell it apart from similar IKEA sofas, and how to keep it looking fresh with a new made-to-measure couch cover.

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Give your IKEA HOVAS a pop of colour with our Everyday Weave couch cover in the colour Rust. (Image credit: Comfort Works)

Why the IKEA HOVAS sofa is still worth keeping

There’s something effortlessly cosy about the Hova and owners know just how hard it is to replace once you’ve had one.

Why it’s still a fan favourite:

  • Ultra spacious: Wide and deep enough for stretching out solo or sprawling out with the whole family.
  • Daybed potential: With its generous proportions, it moonlights beautifully as a comfy nap spot.
  • Tall-person friendly: Long-legged loungers, this one’s for you.
  • Built for comfort: Cushy arms, relaxed silhouette, and plenty of squish.

Sure, it’s not the sleekest silhouette on the block, but that’s also part of the charm. It’s not trying to impress; it’s just effortlessly comfortable.

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Our Care+ Linen couch cover in Natural gives this sofa a classy makeover. (Image credit: Comfort Works)

Honest review: What we love (and what’s less great) about the IKEA HOVAS

After chatting with longtime HOVAS owners and hearing from the CW community, here’s the rundown:

✔ Extra roomy, so it’s great for lounging or even overnight guests.
✔ Super cushioned and supportive.
✔ Solid construction, with a sturdy frame that holds up over time.
✔ Great as a statement sofa in beachy or boho homes.

 ✖ Not exactly “modern”. The chunky design isn’t for everyone.
✖ Couch covers from IKEA? Long gone.
✖ If yours came second-hand, it might need a serious refresh.

Livingroom-with-IKEA-HOVAS-armchair-with-ComfortWorks-Mod-Chenille-couch-cover-in-Espresso
If you have the IKEA HOVAS armchair, try our Mod Chenille sofa cover in Espresso for a warm and cosy look. (Image credit: Comfort Works)

IKEA HOVAS quick facts

Here’s what you need to know to check your model or get the right fit for a new couch cover:

  • Model: IKEA HOVAS 3 seater sofa
  • Status: Discontinued
  • Measurements: Width 243 cm x Depth 110 cm x Height 89 cm
  • Original couch cover: No longer available from IKEA
  • Replacement sofa covers: Still available (made-to-order) from Comfort Works
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Our Signature Microfibre couch cover in Caramel makes this sofa look chic. It has the added bonus of being pet-friendly with its scratch-resistant texture. (Image credit: Comfort Works)

HOVAS or EKESKOG? Here’s how to tell

These two sofas are often confused — and we get why. But there’s one major visual clue:

  • The EKESKOG has piping and halfway pleated skirts.
  • The HOVAS has a more seamless, skirted look without the piping detail.

Still unsure? You can always snap a photo and reach out to our team. We’ll help you identify your model.

Give your IKEA HOVAS a second life with a performance couch cover

Can’t find HOVAS covers at IKEA anymore? Don’t worry — at Comfort Works, we make custom couch covers for the IKEA HOVAS 3 seater sofa that fit like the original (but better).

Why choose Comfort Works replacement covers?

Our sofa covers are made from performance fabrics. This means that it has special features that make it ideal for every lifestyle. All our sofa covers are machine washable, OEKO-TEX certified and meet heavy-duty usage standards for commercial use.

Some fabrics also have some stellar standout features. This includes:

  • Liquid-repellent coating (EzGuard™)
    Spills bead up so you can wipe them away before they sink. This is thanks to our clever EzGuard™ finish.
  • Stain-proof protection
    Life’s messes don’t stick. Our stain-proof fabrics make spot-cleaning and washing a breeze.
  • Mould and mildew protection
    Stay fresh and dry with our sofa covers that help stop mould, mildew, and odours before they start.
  • UV and fade-resistant
    Keep your colours vibrant with our UV-protected sofa covers which resist fading, even in full sun.
  • Scratch-resistant texture (PawSafe™)
    Pet-friendly and worry-free — our PawSafe™ fabrics stand up to claws and everyday wear.

Ready to refresh your HOVAS?

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(Image credit: Comfort Works)

IKEA HOVAS is still a very comfy sofa, despite its age. You can still make yours even better with a stylish, modern sofa cover that matches your home.

Check your measurements, choose your fabric, and let us do the rest.

Behind the seams: How FlexiFit redefines the humble couch cushion cover

When a customer tells you that their stretchy couch cushion covers won’t stay on, and then you hear the same thing again and again, you start to realise it’s not just a fluke. It’s a design problem waiting to be solved.

In this short interview we sat down with Melvyn, the team lead for Product Innovation at Comfort Works. We discuss FlexiFit, our game-changing cover and how it came to life. From early prototypes to the final, frustration-free design, here’s what went into creating a universal couch cushion cover that actually delivers.

Watch now to hear the full FlexiFit story

Behind the seams: the making of our universal couch cushion cover

You fluff, you tuck, you straighten. And five minutes later? Your sofa cushions are back to looking like a crumpled mess.

If you’ve ever wrestled with a stretchy cushion cover that somehow never quite fits, or watched your carefully styled sofa lose its shape by the end of the day — you’re not alone. Universal couch cushion covers promise convenience, but most fall short when it comes to staying power or style.

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The different parts of FlexiFit which make it so unique. (Image credit: Comfort Works)

At Comfort Works, we heard the same frustrations from customers time and time again. So we asked ourselves: What if we could fix it? What if there was a cushion cover that actually stayed put, felt great, and looked like it belonged on your sofa, without needing a tailor or a ton of effort?

That question led us to create FlexiFit, and the journey there was anything but ordinary.

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Before FlexiFit (left) and after (right). (Image credit: Comfort Works)

The problem with ‘universal’ cushion covers

“Universal” sounds promising. In theory, it should mean one cover fits everything, right? But in practice, it usually means a compromise.

Most so-called universal couch cushion covers rely on super-stretchy fabric to fit different sizes. That might work for a quick refresh, but it often comes at the cost of shape and structure. You end up with corners that sag, seams that twist, and fabric that shifts every time someone sits down. Not exactly the polished look you were going for.

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FlexiFit is currently available in three colours: Pebble, Cream and Storm. (Image credit: Comfort Works)

Even worse, some covers need constant adjusting. You’re left smoothing things out every morning, after every nap, or every time your dog decides to claim the couch. It’s a small annoyance that adds up, especially if your sofa is the heart of your living space.

At Comfort Works, we knew there had to be a better way. A way to keep the convenience of a universal cover, but ditch the compromise. That’s where FlexiFit began to take shape not as a workaround, but as a rework from the ground up.

Ready to rethink your cushion cover?

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FlexiFit was designed to do more than just fit. It was made to stay put, feel great, and give your sofa cushions a second life. No slipping, no sagging, no endless straightening.

Whether you’re refreshing a well-loved couch or just want your cushions to finally behave, FlexiFit makes it easy to get that tailored, polished look — without the hassle.
Your sofa deserves better.

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