R.Y.
The last thing I scotch guarded I just used a spray can of it. But it was something small like shoes or a bag, not a whole couch. My couch and mattress were silicone coated when I bought them (we paid a bit extra when we bought them). I have a dark color couch so I don't worry much. Baby wipes clean up a lot of spills if you catch them right away (even ball point pen). What about a steam cleaning machine or a washable slip cover (you could just take it off for company)?