A microfiber suede sofa is a cozy
centerpiece for any room. Known for being soft and stylish, this popular
seating choice makes itself right at home in any gathering spot. One drawback,
however, is that the fabric can be tricky to clean, as there are various types
of microfiber suede that each require different scrubbing methods. Simplify the
process and keep the most comfortable seat in the house fresh by following this
easy cleaning routine.
TOOLS AND MATERIALS - Spray bottle- Dish soap- Water-
Baking soda or white vinegar (
optional)- Rubbing alcohol- Soft white
towel or sponge- Soft scrub brush
STEP 1 Microfiber suede fabric is composed of tiny
synthetic fibers designed to ensure that your sofa remains more durable and
stain resistant. If there's ever a spill, they cause liquids to bead first
before soaking into the fabric, allowing you to quickly grab a paper towel and
wipe up the mess before any major damage is done. But because these fibers are
so small, they also make it more difficult to remove forgotten spills. As often
as you can, treat immediately. Some microfiber suede sofas repel water and
others are stained by it, so it’s important to first determine what type of
microfiber fabric is on your sofa so you can use the proper cleaning methods:
•
W-labeled sofas can be cleaned with a water-based solution.
•
S-labeled sofas will be stained by water and must be
cleaned with a special solvent.
• The label S-W means that you can clean with either a solvent
or water.
•
An X label means that no liquid should be used on the sofa
at all—only a vacuum.
To determine the classification of your sofa, check the tags that may be
hiding on or underneath the couch. If you can’t find the label, consider moving
forward as if it is an S-labeled model, just to be on the safe side. You should
also always test a small spot first with any cleaner you use to ensure that it
doesn't stain.
STEP 2 Find a clean spray bottle to store your
solution and make application a cinch. If you’re working with a W-labeled sofa,
create a water-based mixture of warm water and a few drops of mild dish soap.
(To neutralize odors, also add a teaspoon of baking soda or white vinegar.) For
S-labeled couches, fill your spray bottle with rubbing alcohol. Note: If you’re
working with an X model, you'll want to skip the spray-on cleanser all together
and opt to use the upholstery attachment on your vacuum to remove any dirt or
debris from the surface of your sofa.
STEP 3 For S- and W-labeled couches, spray the specific
stain you’re hoping to target, or work on one area at a time if you aim to
freshen the entire sofa. Don't
soak the cushions—you're going to want
it to dry eventually—but do dampen it enough to loosen the dirt. Then, rub a
soft towel or a sponge (either should be white, so no color transfers while you
work) in a circular motion over those sections that are saturated with
cleanser. The spraying and rubbing might make the couch look darker or mussed
at first, but don't worry; the microfiber suede will return to its normal self
when it's clean and dry.
STEP 4 Once the fabric feels completely dry to the
touch, use a soft scrub brush to gently rub it. This will help fluff the
fibers, making the material feel soft and look brand-new again.