Many mothers can tell you that microfiber is one of the hardest upholstery materials to keep clean. While the material is often stain-resistant, it is not stain-proof. There is a small window of opportunity to remove spilled water, milk, etc. However, if you do not remove the liquid before it has time to soak in, you will likely be left with a significant stain.
Seeking out professional upholstery cleaning services is one way to remove stains from a microfiber couch, but it may be possible to remove the stains on your own. If you are attempting a DIY stain removal, the most important thing to consider is avoiding water-based cleaners. Also, it is important to test a small, inconspicuous area on your couch before attempting to remove the stains. This will help ensure you do not damage an area that is immediately visible.
The first step in DIY microfiber stain removal is to check the tag of your furniture to determine what type of microfiber your couch is. There should be a letter code somewhere on your tag. If you are lucky enough to have a tag marked with a “W,” then you can safely use water-based cleaners. However, this is still “at your own risk.” An “S” indicates you should use solvent-based cleaners such as rubbing alcohol or other clear alcohols. An “X” means use neither, and it may be best to contact an upholstery cleaning professional.
There are several upholstery cleaning techniques you can try on your microfiber couch. The first is to use an aerosol spray cleaner, such as Lysol, and spray a light amount on the stain. You can then blot the stain dry with a clean cloth. This technique works best on small areas.
For larger areas, you can try rubbing alcohol and a very soft-bristled brush. Gently rub your solvent on the affected areas only and pat dry with a clean cloth. Repeat as needed. Once dry, you may want to go over the area again with the brush to loosen areas that feel hardened.
