Following Basic Microsuede Care
Know your microfiber code. Microsuede furniture should come with a tag printed with a code indicating what kind of cleaning solutions can be used on the material. The code will appear as "W," "S" or "S-W." "W" indicates that a water-based cleaning solution may be used. "S" indicates that a solvent-based cleaner (or one which dissolves chemical compounds) can be used. "S-W" indicates that you may safely use both types of cleaners. "X" means that you should vacuum clean only and skip the cleaning solution.
Vacuum microsuede to remove crumbs and dust. Running a vacuum over the fabric once a week, or more often if you have a pet that sheds, will keep it looking clean and new. If you have a very powerful or unwieldy vacuum, use a furniture brush instead. Even if the care tag says "W" or "S" on it, you should still vacuum the furniture before applying a cleaning solution.
Wash your microsuede once every few months. As long as the care tag indicates that you can apply a cleaning solution, it should be safe to use. Even if the fabric isn't stained, washing it will keep it smelling fresh and looking clean. It's a good idea to clean a test spot with your chosen cleaner first to double-check that it won't stain or discolor the material.
Washing Microsuede Correctly
Buy the right type of cleaning solution for your fabric. Fill a spray bottle with the type of solution recommended by the manufacturer of your microsuede. You can use commercial cleaners on "W," "S," and "S-W" pieces. Alternatively, you can wash "W" furniture with cold, soapy water. For "S" furniture, you could use undiluted rubbing alcohol. Avoid using water or solvents on "X" pieces.
Spray the area to be cleaned. To clean the entire upholstered surface of the furniture, work in three-foot increments to avoid over-saturating one area.
Wipe the cleaning liquid from the furniture. Apply pressure to the saturated areas of the microsuede using a clean, non-colored cloth. Gently rub the cloth in a circular motion. Wipe the fabric with a second sponge to remove excess moisture.
Allow the furniture to dry. Microfiber material will dry quickly. Allow 15 to 20 minutes for the furniture to completely dry before using it.
Launder microsuede cushion and pillow covers. Some removable microsuede covers are machine washable. Check the manufacturer's instructions before laundering your microsuede.
Removing Stains
Wipe up spills right away. If you can catch a spill before it soaks in, you may be able to prevent a stain. A quick wipe with a paper towel or cloth will take care of most small spills. Don't rub the spill into the fabric; dab it lightly so it won't soak in. Sprinkle baking soda over larger spills. When it dries, run a vacuum over it.
Do a spot test before applying solution for stains. Choose a spot on the bottom or back of your furniture; you never know if a stain-removal method might damage or cause discoloration to your fabric.
Use alcohol for stubborn stains. Soak a cloth or piece of cotton in rubbing alcohol and gently rub the stain until it is removed. Hand wipes containing alcohol are useful for this purpose. You can also use vodka if you don't have rubbing alcohol in the house. Just be sure not to use a liquid that isn't clear.
Try vinegar on oil stains. Wet a cloth with vinegar and rub the stain until it is removed. To prevent the vinegar smell from lingering, wash the microsuede with water or solvent-based solution, whichever your microsuede requires, after applying the vinegar.
Scrub when all else fails. Use a concentrated amount of the cleaning solution approved by your microsuede manufacturer. Spray the stained area liberally and scrub with a brush until the stain is removed.
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