Ikea Ektorp Sofa Care: Prolong the Life of a Discontinued Favorite

If you’re here, it means you likely own (and love) an Ikea Ektorp sofa, like I do. And who could blame you? Our trusty Ektorp has been part of our family for eight years now, and it’s held up through movie nights, lazy afternoons, and more than a few spills. But with Ikea’s decision to discontinue this beloved line, Ektorp owners everywhere are left wondering: How do we keep this comfy classic in good shape for years to come?

Good news—I’ve got you covered! Here’s all the Ikea Ektorp sofa care tips I’ve learned over the years – how to maintain, refresh, and extend the life of the now-discontinued Ikea Ektorp.

Let’s dive in.

Ikea Ektorp Sofa Care

1. Protect the Fabric: Prevention is Key!

One of the biggest perks of the Ektorp is that the covers are removable and washable, making it family-friendly and easy to clean. But before spills happen, take steps to protect the fabric:

• Use Fabric Protectors: Products like Scotchgard or other fabric protectants can give your Ektorp an invisible shield. Just make sure to do a patch test first! Apply it to the slipcovers (once clean and dry) every 6-12 months to help repel stains and spills.
• Rotate Cushions Regularly: By rotating and flipping your cushions weekly (or at least monthly), you’ll even out the wear and keep them looking plush. This is especially helpful for the seat cushions, as they can flatten over time if always sat on in the same spot. (Or for the back cushions if you have a dog who likes to squish them down, like we do!)

2. Cleaning 101: Keep Your Ektorp Fresh and Tidy

Cleaning your Ektorp is relatively easy and one of the reasons it’s such a great sofa for busy households. Here’s how to tackle routine upkeep and those inevitable bigger spills:

• Weekly Maintenance: Use a vacuum with an upholstery attachment to suck up crumbs, pet hair, and dust. This is especially important for the base of the sofa and under the cushions. (It also saves embarrassment if someone needs to retrieve something that’s fallen out of a pocket from between the cushions!)
• Washing Slipcovers: Remove the slipcovers and follow Ikea’s care instructions for washing. Typically, you can machine-wash them in cold water on a gentle cycle, and you should air dry or tumble on low heat to avoid shrinking. Although we’ve dried ours a several times and they’re fine.
• Spot Cleaning: For everyday spills, gently dab the stain with a clean, damp cloth, paper towel or even a baby wipe. Avoid rubbing, as this can push the stain deeper into the fabric. If the stain is stubborn, mix a bit of mild soap with water and dab it again. Be careful with harsher cleaners—they can damage the fabric.

3. Cushion TLC: Keeping Things Plump and Comfy

Over time, your Ektorp’s cushions can lose a bit of their bounce. Here’s how to keep them cozy:

• Fluff and Rotate Cushions: Fluffing cushions regularly (think of it like shaking up a pillow) will help maintain their shape and prevent them from getting too flat. Rotating them is equally important, especially if you have a favorite side of the sofa that sees the most action. Since we have a sectional, I swap the cushions from side to side to prevent wear from the most-used seats.
• Stuff the Cushions: If your cushions are starting to sag, try adding some additional stuffing. Many DIYers recommend poly-fil stuffing, which you can buy at craft stores. Open the cushion cover, add more filling until it reaches your preferred firmness, and then zip it back up.

4. Keep the Frame Sturdy

Ektorp’s frame is pretty durable, but over time, screws can loosen and joints and even the feet/legs might feel a bit wobbly. Here’s what to do:

• Tighten Screws and Bolts: Check the underside of your sofa and any connecting points every few months or a couple times a year. Use a screwdriver or Allen wrench to tighten any loose parts.
• Add Furniture Pads: If your sofa sits directly on hardwood or tile, furniture pads on the legs will prevent the frame from shifting too much and can help with stability over the years.

5. Replacement Parts and DIY Repairs

Just because Ikea has discontinued the Ektorp doesn’t mean you’re out of options for keeping it looking great. Here’s where to find replacement parts and get creative with repairs:

• Frame and Leg Repairs: If your sofa’s frame or legs are damaged, but don’t fret! Look online at Ikea resell and repair sites or in local buy-and-sell groups. Many people part out their Ektorp frames, meaning you can sometimes find replacement parts secondhand.
• DIY Arm Rests and More: Over time, the armrests might lose their firmness or get flattened from frequent use. If this happens, you can add armrest padding yourself. Cut foam padding to size, wrap it in fabric that complements your sofa, and secure it to the arms with velcro or ties. Then just cover with the slipcovers.

6. Freshen Things Up: Add New Slipcovers and Accessories

Even though the Ektorp itself is discontinued, you can keep it looking fresh and stylish by switching up your slipcovers and adding accessories that breathe new life into your living room:

• Experiment with Slipcovers: One of the best ways to keep your sofa looking “new” is to swap slipcovers seasonally or whenever you feel like a refresh. Choose lighter, breezier fabrics in spring and summer, and go for cozy textures or deeper colors in the colder months. While Ikea no longer sells Ektorp covers, plenty of third-party vendors specialize in Ikea-compatible slipcovers. Sites like Bemz, Comfort Works, and even Amazon offer slipcovers in different colors and fabrics.
• Use Throws and Cushions: Changing your throw blankets and cushions is a simple but effective way to refresh the look of your Ektorp. Have fun with colors or patterns that suit your decorating style, or use textures like faux fur, velvet, or woven materials to create a warm, inviting vibe.

Love Your Ektorp for Years to Come

Even though Ikea’s Ektorp has officially retired, with a little care and creativity, you can keep this classic sofa a comfy, stylish centerpiece of your home for years to come. From simple fabric care to rotating cushions and replacing parts, these small actions will help extend the life of your beloved sofa and ensure it continues to serve as your cozy retreat.

Whether you’re an Ektorp newbie or a long-time owner, I hope these Ikea Ektorp sofa care tips help you feel inspired to care for and love your sofa even more!

Have you got an Ikea Ektorp? What’s your favorite care tip? Let me know in the comments below!