Whenever you look for new upholstery, the first thing you pay attention to is its appearance and how it will fit the living room’s design. However, there are other factors to consider as well.
Microfibre couches, for instance, have earned widespread popularity among homeowners due to their enticing combination of comfort, durability, and stylish aesthetics. However, like any upholstery material, they are susceptible to stains and spills.
The reassuring news is that cleaning microfibre is a relatively straightforward task when you possess the right knowledge and techniques. To safeguard the pristine condition of your microfibre couch and maximise its longevity, we will delve into the art of cleaning it both safely and effectively.
What is microfibre
So, what exactly is microfibre? Well, microfibre is a synthetic fabric made of finely woven fibres that are smaller than a strand of silk. These exceptionally fine fibres come together to form a sumptuously soft and plush texture, elevating your living area’s comfort and style.
Not only that, but microfibre also possesses outstanding durability to the wear and tear of everyday use. In other words, furniture made with microfibre is the preferred choice for any household thanks to its long-lasting quality, ensuring your furniture maintains its beauty and functionality for years to come.
General stain removal tips
Before we delve into specific stain removal methods, let’s go over some general tips that apply to cleaning microfibre couches and chairs:
- Take action – stain removal is easier when you address it right away. Fresh stains are less likely to set into the fabric.
- Blot, don’t rub – When dealing with stains, always blot gently with a clean, white cloth or paper towel. Stains can penetrate the fabric deeper if they are rubbed.
- Test on a hidden area – Before attempting any stain removal technique, test it in a hidden spot on your couch to ensure it won’t damage or discolour the fabric.
- Avoid harsh chemicals – microfibre is sensitive to certain chemicals, so it’s best to stick to mild cleaning solutions. Always check the manufacturer’s cleaning recommendations.
Tools and materials
To effectively remove stains from your microfibre couch, gather the following tools and materials:
- Clean, white cloths or paper towels
- Mild dishwashing soap
- Distilled water
- Isopropyl alcohol (70% or higher)
- White vinegar
- Baking soda
- Soft-bristle brush or toothbrush
- Spray bottle
- microfibre cloth (for regular maintenance)
Now, let’s tackle some common stains that you may encounter on your microfibre couch.
Water-based stains
Water-based stains are among the easiest to remove from microfibre upholstery. These stains include spills from water, tea, coffee, and clear liquids. Here’s how to handle them:
- Soak up as much liquid as possible by blotting the stain immediately with a clean cloth or paper towel.
- Make a solution of mild dishwashing soap and distilled water in a spray bottle. Spray the stained area lightly.
- Blot the stain with a white cloth gently, starting from the outside of the stain toward the centre.
- Allow the area to air dry, and then brush the fabric with a soft-bristle brush or toothbrush to restore its texture.
Food and beverage stains
Food and beverage stains are common on couches, especially in households with children or frequent entertaining. Here’s how to address them:
- Scrape off any excess food or solids gently with the edge of a credit card or with a spoon.
- Prepare a mixture of mild dishwashing soap and warm distilled water, then dampen a clean cloth with the solution and blot the stain.
- Continue blotting until the stain lifts. Avoid oversaturating the fabric.
- Allow the area to air dry, and then fluff the microfibre with a brush to maintain its texture.
Ink and marker stains
Ink and marker stains can be particularly stubborn, but they can still be removed with the right approach:
- Dampen a clean cloth with isopropyl alcohol (70% or higher).
- Gently blot the ink or marker stain. Do not rub it, as this can spread the ink even more.
- Continue blotting until the stain starts to come off. You may need to repeat this process several times.
- Rinse the affected area with clean water and pat it dry after removing the stain.
Grease and oil stains
Grease and oil stains, such as those from food or hair products, can seem daunting, but you can tackle them effectively:
- Put a bit of baking soda on the stain and allow it to sit for a few minutes so it can absorb grease.
- Gently wipe away the baking soda with a soft-bristle brush.
- Dampen a clean cloth with isopropyl alcohol (70% or higher) and blot the stain.
- Repeat the process until the stain disappears. Rinse the area with clean water and blot dry.
Pet stains and odours
If you have pets, accidents can happen. Here’s how to remove pet stains and odours from your microfibre couch:
- Blot up as much of the liquid as possible with a clean cloth or paper towel.
- Combine white vinegar with distilled water in an equal amount.
- Spray the stained area lightly with the vinegar solution.
- Make sure the stain is gone by blotting it with a clean cloth.
- You can combat odours by placing baking soda on the spot and allowing it to sit for several hours or overnight. Vacuum afterwards.
Non-water soluble stains
Some stains, like wax or gum, are not water-soluble. Here’s how to remove them:
- For wax, gently scrape off excess wax with a credit card. Then, place a white cloth over the wax and carefully use a warm iron to melt the wax onto the cloth.
- For gum, place ice cubes in a plastic bag and apply it to the gum until it hardens. Then, gently scrape off the gum with a credit card or plastic knife.
Routine cleaning and maintenance
To keep your microfibre couch looking its best and prevent stains, follow these routine cleaning and maintenance tips:
- Vacuum your couch regularly using a soft-bristle brush attachment to remove dust and crumbs.
- Fluff and brush the fabric to maintain its softness and texture.
- Consider using a fabric protector spray to repel stains and spills. Always test in an inconspicuous area first.
- Take care of the stains promptly to prevent them from setting and becoming more challenging to remove.
Conclusion
A microfibre couch adds both comfort and style to any room. Using the right stain removal techniques and maintaining your microfibre upholstery regularly will keep your furniture looking beautiful for a very long time.
Never use harsh chemicals or scrubbing, as these can damage the fabric. If the stain persists, it is best to call a professional upholstery cleaning service.
Remember to act quickly, use gentle cleaning solutions, and always test in an inconspicuous spot before treating a stain. With a little care, your microfibre couch can continue to be a beautiful centrepiece in your living space.
