Clean Microsuede Furniture

Microsuede is fabric made up of tightly-woven synthetic fibers that create a durable, water-repellent surface. Because microfiber can be fashioned to look like leather or suede, it is a popular upholstery choice for homes, restaurants, and commercial spaces. Microsuede sofas and chairs may be more durable and stain resistant than those constructed with other fabric, but they aren't exempt from spills and other wear. Follow these tips for cleaning and removing stains from your microsuede furniture.

Steps

Basic Microsuede Care

  1. Vacuum microsuede to remove crumbs and dust. Running a vacuum over the fabric once a week, or more often if you have a pet that sheds, will keep it looking clean and new.
    • If you have a very powerful or unwieldy vacuum, use a furniture brush instead.
  2. Dry clean microsuede with powdered detergent. Sprinkle laundry detergent over the fabric, gently brush it into the fabric using a cloth or a brush, and vacuum it up. This is especially useful for preventing the lingering odor of household pets.
  3. Know your microfiber code. Microsuede furniture should come with a tag printed with a code indicating what kind of cleaning solutions can be used on the material. The code will appear as "W," "S" or "S-W."
    • "W" indicates that a water-based cleaning solution may be used.
    • "S" indicates that a solvent-based cleaner (or one which dissolves chemical compounds) can be used.
    • "S-W" indicates that you may safely use both types of cleaners.
  4. Wash your microsuede once every few months. Even if the fabric isn't stained, washing it will keep it smelling fresh and looking clean.

How to Wash Microsuede

  1. Buy the right type of cleaning solution for your fabric. Fill a spray bottle with the type of solution recommended by the manufacturer of your microsuede.
  2. Spray the area to be cleaned. To clean the entire upholstered surface of the furniture, work in three-foot increments to avoid over-saturating one area.
  3. Wipe the cleaning liquid from the furniture. Apply pressure to the saturated areas of the microsuede using a clean, non-colored cloth. Gently rub the cloth in a circular motion.
    • Wipe the fabric with a second sponge to remove excess moisture.
  4. Allow the furniture to dry. Microfiber material will dry quickly. Allow 15 to 20 minutes for the furniture to completely dry before using it.
  5. Launder microsuede cushion and pillow covers. Some removable microsuede covers are machine washable. Check the manufacturer's instructions before laundering your microsuede.

How to Remove Stains

  1. Wipe up spills right away. If you can catch a spill before it soaks in, you may be able to prevent a stain. A quick wipe with a paper towel or cloth will take care of most small spills.
    • Don't rub the spill into the fabric; dab it lightly so it won't soak in.
    • Sprinkle baking soda over larger spills. When it dries, run a vacuum over it.
  2. Do a spot test before applying solution for stains. Choose a spot on the bottom or back of your furniture; you never know if a stain-removal method might damage or cause discoloration to your fabric.
  3. Use alcohol for stubborn stains. Soak a cloth or piece of cotton in rubbing alcohol and gently rub the stain until it is removed.
    • Hand wipes containing alcohol are useful for this purpose.
    • You can also use vodka if you don't have rubbing alcohol in the house. Just be sure not to use a liquid that isn't clear.
  4. Try vinegar on oil stains. Wet a cloth with vinegar and rub the stain until it is removed. To prevent the vinegar smell from lingering, wash the microsuede with water or solvent-based solution, whichever your microsuede requires, after applying the vinegar.
  5. When all else fails, scrub. Use a concentrated amount of the cleaning solution approved by your microsuede manufacturer. Spray the stained area liberally and scrub with a brush until the stain is removed.

Tips

  • After drying, the microsuede may have hard patches where stains were located. To soften the fabric, brush the area gently in a back-and-forth motion with a bristled brush or a clean toothbrush.
  • For odors in your microsuede, apply dry baking soda to the area, leave on for 24 hours, and remove with a dry cloth. Brush off any remaining residue with a bristled brush.

Things You'll Need

  • Hard-bristled brush
  • Spray bottle
  • Water
  • Cleaning solvent
  • Clean, non-colored towel
  • Vacuum
  • Alcohol or vinegar, if necessary

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Sources and Citations

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