We’ve included a list of some of the tools we bought once we had money left over from selling our first few couches (which is why it’s crucial to set aside money from your first couch flipping sales). Certain things are “Must Haves” because they are the very minimum that we advise if you intend to proceed.
Must Have
- Vacuum cleaner: Although most people already have one of these in the house before they even start, a good vacuum is essential to flipping furniture properly. While not every sofa needs upholstery cleaning if it’s in good condition, almost all couches require a decent vacuum.
- Upholstery Cleaner: One of the most essential possessions, after a vacuum, is an upholstery cleaner. You can’t always rely on washing the cushion covers because certain couches you pick up won’t be able to remove them
Furthermore, the arm rests of a couch are frequently one of the regions that require the most cleaning, and they are unavoidably fixed. To tackle more stubborn stains before washing upholstery, you’ll need a cleaning solution in addition to the cleaning equipment.
- Staple Gun: It wasn’t until we had a couple couches that we realized we needed this. Since then, we have removed numerous couches from the house that had broken or disconnected bottom felts. Prior to our next sale, stapling up the bottom ensures that, for the new owner, the couch appears as brand-new as possible.
Couches with cracked frames or springs that have popped out may eventually be picked up. If that occurs, the problem must be resolved by removing the bottom felt, and once fixed, it must be re-stapled.
- Sewing Kit: Although you won’t use it much, having one of these on hand is still a useful tool. Although we advise against buying couches with rips in the middle of the cushions, patching tears around the seams is very simple and can significantly increase the value of your couch.
- Tie Down Straps: We’ve discovered that all tie down straps function about the same. Although we purchased our straps from a Tractor Supply Co., high-quality straps are available everywhere.
- Tool Kit: When you go to pick up most couches, it’s reasonable to assume that they won’t be disassembled. If you are moving couches from a confined place, you might have to take the legs off of them or deconstruct the larger couch into multiple parts (like a metal frame reclining couch).
- Febreze is an easy one to understand. After cleaning, couches occasionally require a new spritz. It is advised to choose a light fragrance that infuses freshness without being overly overpowering. Almost any neighborhood grocery store will carry Febreze.
Good to Have
- Steam Cleaner: A steam cleaner is the first item on the “Nice to Have” list. A steam cleaner is an excellent product to have around because it can help deodorize and sterilize couches, while it’s obviously not necessary. It’s also one of the few items that works on couches to remove wax-like stains, including gum, wax, etc.
- Moving Blankets: A moving blanket is an additional useful thing to have on hand. The majority of couches won’t require covering during transit, but it’s a good idea to have this on hand in case you pick up any additional furniture, such as tables or leather couches, that you want to keep safe.
Total Budget
Although we periodically visit Lowe’s or The Home Depot to pick up miscellaneous things we might need while fixing couches We use the list shown above once a week. You can buy everything you need to tackle practically any couch pickup or cleaning for less than $700.
Final Thoughts
Having the right tools can make all the difference in couch flipping, ensuring your process is efficient and your finished product looks its best. Investing in must-have items like a vacuum, upholstery cleaner, and staple gun will help you maximize your profits. Over time, you can expand your toolkit to include nice-to-have items like a steam cleaner and moving blankets.
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