How to Clean Microfiber Couch — Easy to Follow Methods by a Cleaning Expert
Giving your furniture a good refresh is essential to a tidy home and here's how you can do just that
The great thing about microfibre couches is that they're quite tough and durable. But just like most fabrics, this material can gather dust, dirt, and stains — especially if it's been used every single day and has dealt with a lot of traffic.
This is why it is essential to know how to clean a sofa correctly in order to get the most out of it. Microfibre couches are often made from synthetic materials such as polyester and nylon, so learning how to clean them correctly is key to their longevity. Cleaning expert Rinea Blanchard from Superior Contract Cleaning tells us: "Microfiber attracts dirt and oils fast. I've seen couches that looked fine at first glance, but once we started cleaning, it was clear just how much gunk they'd accumulated." She continues: "Regular cleaning keeps your couch looking fresh and extends its lifespan. Plus, it removes allergens and odors—important if you've got pets or kids. In the longer term, it prevents accumulation of mold spores."
So, how exactly do you clean a microfibre couch? Here is everything you need to know, according to an expert.
What You'll Need
There are several sofa cleaning mistakes you'll want to avoid, the first being using the wrong tools, as this can lead to damaging your sofa.
Here are a few tools recommended by Cleaning expert Rinea Blanchard from Superior Contract Cleaning, that you can use to give your microfiber couch a refreshed look.
TOOLS
• Vacuum with upholstery attachment.
• White microfiber cloths, from Amazon.
• Soft-bristled brush, like this Upholstery Cleaning Brush from Walmart.
• Rubbing alcohol in a spray bottle. You can purchase Isopropyl Alcohol from Target at just $3.99.
• Dish soap (Dawn Ultra Dish Soap Dishwashing Liquid from Walmart should do the trick).
• Optional: Upholstery cleaning machine.
How to Clean a Microfibre Couch
Knowing how to clean couch cushions is also key to a clean microfiber couch. So what's the process? Well, cleaning expert Rinea has given us a step-by-step guide to cleaning your microfiber sofa.
Check your sofa codes: It's important to remember that there are sofa codes in place for your home furniture. So, as a first step, ensure you check your codes. Rinea tells us: "Look for a tag, usually under a cushion. 'W' means water-based cleaners are okay, 'S' means solvent-based only, and 'X' means vacuum only."
Vacuum: Next up, the cleaning expert says you should "use the upholstery attachment to go over every inch of the couch with a vacuum." Make sure you get into the crevices and under the cushions first.
Before you start any cleaning, the expert notes that it's important to always test the cleaning solution on a hidden area first before using it on your whole couch.
For general cleaning: Rinea suggests you mix a solution of warm water and a few drops of mild dish soap. Then, "dampen a microfiber cloth with the solution (don't soak it) and gently blot and wipe the fabric, working in small sections." After doing so, you can then use a clean, damp cloth to remove any residue from the soap. As a last step, dry with a clean microfiber cloth.
How do I clean Tough Stains from a Microfibre couch?
Whether you want to tackle and clean a velvet sofa or you want to know how to give your microfiber sofa a nice refresh, there are certain cleaning methods you can use to get to the bottom of those tough stains. But how exactly do you remove a stain from a microfiber couch? Well, Rinea recommends doing the following:
Step 1: To make the process easier, you can put some rubbing alcohol in a spray bottle.
Step 2: Next up, lightly spray the stain and cover the area with the solution.
Step 3: You can then blot the sprayed area with a white microfiber cloth.
Step 4: Rinea says you should repeat this until the stain lifts.
Step 5: Lastly, once it's dry, you can use a soft-bristled brush to fluff up the fibers.
FAQs
How to Clean a Microfiber Couch With Rubbing Alcohol
"This is my go-to for tough stains," says Rinea. "Spray lightly, blot with a white cloth, and repeat. It evaporates quickly, so it won't leave water marks."
The expert says you must test this before spraying it on your sofa, as some dyes can react badly.
What other DIY cleaning solutions can I use?
For really stubborn stains or deep-set odors, Rinea says she often uses a professional-grade upholstery cleaning machine.
But if you are seeking a DIY solution, you should first "mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle." The expert says you spray lightly on the area where the stain is and then blot over it with a clean cloth. As a last step, "sprinkle baking soda over the area and let it sit overnight. Then, vacuum thoroughly in the morning."
Be The First To Know
The Livingetc newsletter is your shortcut to the now and the next in home design. Subscribe today to receive a stunning free 200-page book of the best homes from around the world.
Faiza is the Advice & Gardens Editor at Livingetc. To further her skills, she is currently taking on the 'Gardening in America' course with the American Horticultural Society (AHS). Faiza previously worked for The Independent as a News Feature Writer, where she crafted lifestyle, entertainment and news stories. She also worked as an Audience Editor for the newspaper for almost two years. Thriving in the busy newsroom, Faiza also spent her time crafting stories for Sky News as an SEO reporter, where she produced stories based on trending topics. Lifestyle and Interior design is a space she has been interested in for quite some time and as she blossoms in this field, she will continue to further her skills in design and gardening. Faiza has a background in SEO, social media and reporting. Her passion for writing goes beyond her work as she loves all things poetry and creative writing.
-
I'm a Style Editor and This is My Best-Kept Styling Secret — It's Luxurious, Layerable, and Just $49 on Amazon
When in doubt, swap in a sheepskin rug. This is the exact one I swear by for winter (or anytime, really)
By Julia Demer Published
-
Goodbye Muddy Entryway Footprints: The Tangier Boot Tray Has Arrived On My Doorstep — And It's a Step Up in Style
This boot tray will ensure your dirty or wet shoes can dry off, your entryway flooring can stay shiny, and your entry closet can stay clean too
By Faiza Saqib Published
-
At Last! A 101 Guide to Cleaning Flooring That Will Restore The Splendor of Tile, Stone, Wood, and More
Our experts have put together a guide on how you can refresh your flooring and make them look as good as new
By Seraphina Kyprios Published
-
Hate Chores? I Tried the 5 Senses Cleaning Method — And Overcame My Deep-Clean Delay Tactics
Rather be shopping? If you're a major procrastinator when it comes to deep cleaning, this holistic method might just get you over the hump
By Amiya Baratan Published
-
Why Does Dust Accumulate So Quickly — and How Can You Get Rid of It? Cleaning Experts Say It's Due to This One Mistake
Dust is notoriously hard to banish, even if you have a strict cleaning routine, but these dust-busting tips can help you finally grasp control
By Lilith Hudson Published
-
How to Polish Marble Countertops — 4 Simple Steps for a Sparkling Space and the Common Mistakes You Should Avoid
Make your countertops look as radiant as ever without the fear of causing damage by following this expert-informed guide
By Ciéra Cree Published
-
How to Make Homemade Laundry Detergent — It's Natural, Quick and Easy, Says Our Cleaning Expert
Professional advice on how you can make your own clothing, duvet and linen wash
By Seraphina Kyprios Published
-
I'm a Neat-Freak Who Hates Chores — But These 6 Bathroom Cleaning Hacks Helped Me Get Mine Streak-Free, Without Breaking a Sweat
The shaving cream trick to keep mirrors from fogging was the winner
By Ciéra Cree Published
-
How to Wash a Weighted Blanket — 4 Methods You Need for a Soft and Cozy Throwover
Keep your blanket in pristine condition with this easy-to-follow washing guide
By Seraphina Kyprios Published
-
How to Clean Countertops — 5 Expert-Approved Steps to Gleaming, Good-As-New Surfaces
Get your space in top form with these tips and tricks from cleaning professionals
By Ciéra Cree Published