How to Clean Microfiber Couch
Microfiber couches are known to be durable and resistant to stains. They are made of a material that can resist soil and repel dirt and grime due to its polyester/polyamide fabric blend. Their synthetic fibers are hundred times thinner than a human hair. Microfiber upholstery is also hypoallergenic which makes it a perfect choice for people who suffer from allergies. Most microfiber sofas are so durable that they can last and hold their shape for years to come and are available in a wide variety of prints and colors. However, just like any other type of sofa it can get dirty over time and may need cleaning. After years of use, pet hair, dander, dust and dirt can eventually settle and dampen the microfiber material. But don’t worry; we are here to help you come up with some practical and efficient ways to clean a microfiber couch.
You can find the reviews of the most popular store cleaners that will clean microfiber couches in our previous article. Some of them are marketed for car interiors and some are intended for your furniture upholstery, but you may use them interchangeably as in both cases upholstery materials are the same or very similar. Certain commercial sofa cleaners are more concentrated and are designed can help you spot clean microfiber couches in emergencies.
But before using any type of cleaning solution, check the furniture tag for a cleaning label. Letter “W” means you can safely use water-based cleaners (mild dish detergent, soap, upholstery cleaner) and letter “S” means you have to use a solvent-based cleaning products (dry cleaning solvents, rubbing alcohol, baby wipes). There are also tags that have “S-W” which means you may use either type of solution to clean your microfiber couch. Popular commercial sofa cleaner brands that work well with microfiber couches are Mothers Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner, BISSELL Fabric & Upholstery Shampoo and Blue Coral Upholstery Cleaner. These products are easy to apply, will not damage or discolor your microfiber couch and will work great for spot cleaning.
Steps to Clean Microfiber Couch
Never attempted to clean microfiber couch by yourself? It’s not difficult, just follow these simple steps:
1. Prepare all the materials you need. You need a soft-bristled brush, a vacuum with a hand/brush attachment and a cleaning solution based on the furniture tag of your couch.
2. Vacuum the area to be cleaned to remove dust and loose dirt.
3. Scrub stains with a brush to remove any debris stuck to your couch.
4. After removing the remains of the stain vacuum the area once more.
5. Apply the cleaning solution on the sofa. Be sure to test it on a hidden area before using it on a visible large surface. Use a clean cloth to work the cleaner into the stain. Do not use too much cleaning solution to avoid oversaturating the fabric.
6. You may proceed to another section of the couch or apply more upholstery cleaner should the stain remain.
7. Use a blow dryer to dry out the wet spots. Be sure to have it on the lowest temperature setting.
8. You may use a soft brush again to restore the original texture of the fabric as microfiber upholstery may stiffen a little after cleaning.
9. Be sure to open a window if you are using commercial cleaning solutions and to use gloves to protect your hands as well.
Here are some handy tips to efficiently clean microfiber couches:
• Determine what type of stain or dirt you are dealing with so you can easily remove it. For example grease stains may be removed by dish soap or WD-40 while ordinary stains may be blotted out by baby wipes.
• Try the microfiber upholstery cleaner on a small, hidden area of your couch before using it on a large area.
• If you have doubts, contact a professional cleaner.