Housekeeping House Cleaning Surface Cleaning How to Clean a Microfiber Couch So It Looks Good for Many Years Learn the best ways to clean a microfiber couch, including how to remove stains and protect the fabric. By Berit Thorkelson Berit Thorkelson Berit Thorkelson is a freelance writer with more than 24 years of experience covering home design, travel, and parenting. She’s contributed to Better Homes & Gardens, National Geographic Traveler, and Parents. Learn about BHG's Editorial Process and Jessica Bennett Jessica Bennett Instagram Jessica Bennett is an editor, writer, and former digital assistant home editor at BHG. Learn about BHG's Editorial Process Updated on June 8, 2023 Share Tweet Pin Email Project Overview Working Time: 20 minutes Total Time: 45 minutes Skill Level: Beginner Estimated Cost: $10 Microfiber furniture is known for its supreme stain resistance, making it a top upholstery choice in homes with kids and pets. The fabric has a velvety texture, but it's much more durable for everyday use. Often found in neutral colors such as brown and gray, a microfiber couch can also make colors pop and look rich in their vibrancy. When treated properly, microfiber couches can last years longer than other fabric options, but when spills or stains happen, it's important to know how to get the upholstery clean again. To keep yours comfortable and looking great, follow these simple steps on how to clean a microfiber couch. How to Clean Upholstered Furniture to Keep It Looking Spotless BHG / Laura Wheatley What You'll Need Equipment / Tools Cleaning a Microfiber Couch Vacuum with upholstery attachment Stiff fabric brush Microfiber cloth Removing Stains on a Microfiber Couch Stiff-bristled brush Materials Cleaning a Microfiber Couch Baby wipes (optional) Removing Stains on a Microfiber Couch Rubbing alcohol Dry-cleaning solutions (optional) Soapy water Upholstery cleaning product Instructions How to Clean a Microfiber Couch BHG / Laura Wheatley Vacuum or Brush the Couch Clean your microfiber couch regularly with a quick cleaning using your vacuum's upholstery attachment. You can also use a stiff fabric brush to loosen dirt and restore the fabric. Do your best to keep the surface free of crumbs, dust, and anything that might harm the material. Take care of your microfiber couch as you do your carpet; a good rule is to vacuum the couch every time you vacuum the floor. If possible, enlist a "no pets on the couch" rule to help control pet hair. 5 Pet-Friendly Fabrics to Shield Furniture from Stains and Scratches Treat Fabric Stains Treat the occasional stain as quickly as possible with a microfiber cloth, slightly dampened if necessary. Small spills typically won't sink into the fabric, so these are easy to wipe away. Alternatively, baby wipes offer an easy household solution to clean a microfiber couch. This self-contained cleaning product is easy to use and relatively inexpensive to purchase. Keep these in a closed storage container or drawer in the living room so you can immediately have some on hand if something spills. Annie Schlechter How to Remove Stains on a Microfiber Couch To find the best way to remove set-in stains on a microfiber couch, look for its cleaning code, usually marked on the tag or under the seat cushions. "W" means it can be cleaned with water, while "S" means it shouldn't be treated with water. In this case, use a solvent, such as rubbing alcohol or a consumer dry-cleaning solution. "S-W" means using either a solvent or water to clean the microfiber couch. 10 Essential Cleaning Tools to Keep Your Home Sparkling Clean a "W" Code Fabric If you have a "W" code and your cushion covers are removable, launder them according to the manufacturer's instructions or gently in cold water. Hang to dry, and brush to restore the smooth texture. If your cushions aren't removable, use a small amount of soapy water and brush the spot with a stiff-bristled brush as it dries. If the stain persists, move on to an upholstery cleaning product, such as Woolite Carpet & Upholstery Foam Cleaner ($5, Walmart). Clean an "S," "S-W," or No Code Fabric For an "S," "S-W," or no code, try using straight rubbing alcohol. Spray it on lightly, then blot it with a clean white cloth or sponge. Be sure to test it in an inconspicuous spot first. Continue blotting as the stain lifts. Let dry completely (this shouldn't take long since alcohol evaporates quickly), then brush the fabric with a natural or white stiff-bristled brush. Brie Williams Photography Inc How to Protect a Microfiber Couch from Wear and Stains Once you've cleaned your microfiber couch, treat it with a spray-on fabric protector, such as Scotchguard, to keep it spot-free for longer. Protection length varies based on use and care. Be sure to apply the product according to the manufacturer's instructions. The fibers might be tangled if your microfiber fabric feels stiff or tough after cleaning. Fix this by running a fine-tooth comb or a dry sponge over the surface until it softens. The 11 Best Couch Covers of 2023 Frequently Asked Questions How do you clean microfiber furniture without leaving water spots? Ensure your microfiber fabric is ok to be cleaned with water to prevent water spots from happening. Most existing water spots that need to be removed are from spills or previous cleanings. Use baby wipes or rubbing alcohol to remove them. Can you clean a microfiber couch with vinegar? Yes. Clean microfiber couches labeled S/W that are heavily stained by filling a spray bottle with water, a capful of vinegar, and a teaspoon of baking soda. Blot the solution on stains with a clean, white cloth and let dry.