Living in a furnished student apartment near USC is a game-changer. You’ve got the essentials covered—bed, couch, desk, and dining area—all ready to go. But here’s the thing: furnished doesn’t mean free-for-all. Keeping your space looking good isn’t just about pride of place—it can also help you avoid damage fees at move-out.

Whether you’re in your first year or finishing up your senior year, these furniture care tips will keep your student apartment in LA looking fresh all year long.

Respect the Fabric: Upholstery 101

Sofas and chairs in furnished USC student apartments are built to be durable—but they’re not indestructible. A few quick tips:

• Use a lint roller weekly to remove dust and hair.

• Avoid eating meals on upholstered furniture. Spills happen fast, and stains can be hard to remove.

• If you do spill, blot immediately with a clean cloth and warm water. Avoid scrubbing—it pushes the stain deeper.

Pro tip: Don’t use bleach or harsh chemicals. They can discolor or damage the fabric. If you do use a fabric cleaner, test a small area first to see how the fabric reacts before applying to a larger area. 

Don’t Treat Surfaces Like a Workbench

Your furnished desk or dining table may be the centerpiece of your USC off-campus apartment, but it needs some TLC:

• Always use coasters for drinks to prevent rings and water damage.

• Wipe surfaces regularly with a damp cloth, then dry immediately.

• Avoid placing hot items directly on the surface—use trivets or hot pads.

Small scratches? A furniture polish or scratch cover pen (found at any local store) can help minimize the appearance.

Extend The Life Expectancy Of Your Mattress

Treat your mattress well, and it will treat you well in return:

• Use a mattress protector—it keeps the mattress clean and extends its life.

• Rotate the mattress every few months to avoid sagging.

• Don’t eat in bed. Crumbs attract bugs. Enough said.

Keep It Clean Without Going Overboard

When it comes to cleaning your student apartment near USC, less is more:

• Vacuum or sweep under furniture regularly to prevent dust build-up.

• Avoid over-saturating furniture with water or cleaner.

• For wood, stick with gentle wood-safe products.

• For fabric, a handheld vacuum or fabric-safe spray is your best friend.

Decorate Without Damage

Want to personalize your space and make it your own? Totally fair. Just do it damage-free:

• Use removable hooks or adhesive strips for wall decor—no nails needed.

• Add throw pillows or blankets to change up the vibe without touching the base furniture.

• Want to switch out the vibe? Go for rugs or temporary wall decals.

This is your space—make it feel like home, without putting your deposit at risk.

Choosing your home in a student apartment near USC makes college life a lot easier. But it also comes with a little responsibility. Taking just a few simple steps to care for your apartment furnishings can save you money, stress, and awkward convos at move-out.

Looking for furnished student apartments near USC that match your vibe? Check out University Gateway designed with the perfect balance of style, comfort and convenience.