Get a Stain out of a Microfiber Couch

Microfiber is a very low-weight synthetic fiber. It is either used as non-woven material or woven into fabric for couches, resulting in upholstery that is water-resistant, soft and absorbing. Unfortunately, microfiber responds to stains differently than conventional upholstery, so stain fighting solutions could ruin the look of your microfiber couch. Microfiber should not be soaked in water or touched with harsh cleansers. Always check your couch manufacturer's label, and use household cleaners accordingly. Read on to find out how to get a stain out of a microfiber couch.

Steps

Ink Stain Removal

  1. Pour a small amount of rubbing alcohol on a white towel.
  2. Rub the stain gently with the towel. Be sure to contain the alcohol to only the stained portion of the couch.
  3. Wipe it clean of any excess alcohol.
  4. Repeat 2 to 3 times until the stain is removed.
    • This method also works to remove water rings, lipstick or other oil-based stains. Water that has soaked into microfiber fabric often causes a darkening of that area. Work the rubbing alcohol gently into that area.

Food Stain Removal

  1. Soak up excess liquid with white paper towels immediately after the stain was created.
  2. Put a drop of hand dish washing soap, like Dawn, on a white cloth.
  3. Pour 1 drop of water on the liquid to activate it.
  4. Rub gently on the microfiber food stain until it is removed. This should work on oil-based food.
    • Do not use this process on microfiber couches that indicate "S" on their care tag. This means no water-based solvents should be used.

Smell Removal

  1. Sprinkle baking soda on the stain.
  2. Let it sit for 5 minutes to soak up any liquid.
  3. Vacuum up the soiled baking soda.
  4. Reapply baking soda if the spill or smell remains.
    • This method should work for urine stains. Use a solvent in addition if the stain is not completely removed.

Gum Removal

  1. Wrap ice cubes in a plastic bag.
  2. Apply the cold bag to the gum until it hardens.
  3. Tug at the gum from the corners. Try to pull it off in 1 piece.
  4. Reapply the ice if the gum is not fully hardened.
  5. Finished.

Tips

  • Always rub gently on stains to avoid removing fibers and creating a "bald" appearance on the couch.
  • Check your care tag to see if your fabric is machine washable. If so, you may be able to remove the covers and wash gently. Place the covers back on the cushions while they are still damp, so that they do not shrink.
  • On a couch's care label "W" stands for the use of a water-based solvent. "S" stands for the use of a non-water based cleaning solvent. "S/W" refers to the use of either. "X" means that the couch can only be vacuumed. Brush the sofa to remove stains, but do not use solvents.
  • To avoid affecting dyes or fabric, test a small, inconspicuous area with your microfiber stain treatment before trying a large area.
  • Vacuum your microfiber couch every week to avoid dirt and food from turning into hard-to-clean stains.
  • Always check your couch manufacturer's label.
  • Consult a dry cleaner if the microfiber stains cannot be removed with any of these methods.

Warnings

  • Never use bleach or nail polish remover on microfiber material.

Things You'll Need

  • Baking soda
  • Rubbing alcohol
  • Soft white towels
  • White paper towels
  • Vacuum
  • Ice
  • Plastic bag
  • Dish washing detergent
  • Water

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Sources and Citations

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