Cleaning microfiber can be challenging, but you can get the job done with two common methods that use cleaning items you can find in your home: dish soap, rubbing alcohol, and even baking soda and cornstarch for stains and odors. After vacuuming your sofa, mix your dish soap and water, or pour rubbing alcohol into a spray bottle, then lightly sponge or spritz, wipe from top to bottom, rinse, allow the couch to air dry, then vacuum the fibers back into place. Simple as that!
One of many reasons why people choose microfiber upholstery for their homes is because the fabric is durable, inexpensive, and resistant to most stains due to its tightly woven synthetic fibers that can prevent most stains from becoming deep-set, unlike cotton. It even allows cleaners to effectively lift stains from the surface.
However, microfiber doesn’t come without its cons. It’s made from polyester or blended polyester fibers which makes it not only prone to water stains, but the fabric also has a high affinity for oil, which is why hair products, skin oils, dirt, and dust easily accumulate on the high-touch areas, such as the headrest, arm rests, and ottoman. These are the areas that make the most contact with our hands and hair.
Regular maintenance will keep your microfiber couch looking its absolute best. Aim for vacuuming once a week to remove surface dirt and debris before it becomes ground into the fibers. Take care of any spills or stains as soon as they happen to prevent it from setting in. Give your furniture a thorough cleaning at least seasonally, sooner if you have pets or children. And before you start any cleaning method, always be sure to refer to the tag codes on your manufacturer’s care label to ensure you clean your couch properly!
Dish Soap Method
Begin your cleaning session by vacuuming every surface of your upholstery. Use the crevice tool and upholstery brush to meticulously vacuum the undersides, crevices, stitched seams, and any other place that can collect dirt and dust.
Once you’ve finished vacuuming, pour 4 cups of warm water into a large bowl or bucket. Add 1/4th cup of dish soap then stir it around until it’s sudsy. Fill a second large bowl or bucket with plain water.
Carefully dip a sponge or scrubbing brush into the soap suds only, not the water. Starting at the top of the cushion or the back of the couch, evenly spread the suds onto the surface and scrub well, massaging the suds directly onto the fabric in a circular motion. Working your way down from the top is best to prevent dirty suds from dripping onto already cleaned sections.
Frequently rinse the sponge or brush in clean water and make sure it is dry as you repeat the steps with fresh soap suds.
Once the area has been cleaned, slightly dampen a microfiber cloth with fresh water and wipe the couch. Allow it to completely air dry. The couch might feel stiff after cleaning, so you can use a vacuum or upholstery brush to fluff any matted fibers and soften the fabric.
Rubbing Alcohol Method
Begin by thoroughly vacuuming every surface of your upholstery.
Pour the rubbing alcohol into a spray bottle, then lightly spritz the upholstery, starting at the top of the cushion or section. The rubbing alcohol targets the stain, lifting and isolating it from the surrounding fibers. If you’re using a commercial product, be sure to follow the label.
While the fabric is damp, use a sponge, soft-bristled brush, or white cloth to capture the stain and remove any soil or dirt. Rinse the sponge in water and wring out as much water as possible before continuing to clean.
Once you’ve finished wiping it down, allow it to air dry, then use a vacuum or upholstery brush to lift and fluff any matted fibers.
Stain & Odor Removal
Here are some tricks that you can utilize to remove three common stains and odors from your microfiber couch. And the best part? You probably already have the products needed at home!
Grease
Sprinkle cornstarch onto the grease spot on your couch and work it into the fabric with an old toothbrush. Cornstarch will absorb the oil. Allow it to sit for one hour, then spot clean the area with either the dish soap or rubbing alcohol cleaning method.
Chewing Gum
If you encounter the unfortunate mishap of gum stuck to your couch, don’t fret. Clean up is easy! Simply place ice cubes into a sealed plastic bag and put them on top of the chewing gum. This will harden it. Use a dull knife or even your fingernail to break away the hardened gum. Be sure to work slowly so as not to damage your fabric. Keep refreezing as needed. If a stain remains, use either the dish soap method or rubbing alcohol method to remove.
Odors Is your microfiber couch rife with musty smells from your pets or just everyday use? Then this simple method is for you. Best done right before bedtime, sprinkle the entire couch with baking soda and use a soft-bristled brush to work it into the fabric. The next day, vacuum away the baking soda and the odors will dissipate.
