How to Treat Fake Leather Sofas

Smooth Vinyl

• 1

  Wet a cloth and clean surface dirt from upholstery. Vinyl is made of plastic which is not absorbent, so this type of upholstery generally doesn't stain.

• 2

  Mix a solution of equal parts window cleaner and water.

• 3

  Spray the cleaner lightly over the upholstery, working in 2-foot by 2-foot sections.

• 4

  Wipe the surface with another dampened cloth. Allow to dry. You should see no surface dirt.

• 5

  Spray the vinyl with a vinyl treatment if the vinyl appears dulled. Vinyl treatments do not contain the oil or lanolin common to leather treatments. Oil and lanolin sit on top of the vinyl, giving the vinyl a greasy feel and staining clothes.

Faux Suede

• 6

  Vacuum faux suede to remove loose dirt. Raise the nap of the faux suede with the vacuum's brush attachment or clothes or lint brush.

• 7

  Mix a tablespoon of baby shampoo in 8 oz. of water to create a mild cleaning solution.

• 8

  Dip a clean cloth into the shampoo solution and work into the suede in a circular motion. Cover a small section at a time. Allow to dry.

• 9

  Raise the nap with a vacuum cleaner brush or lint brush.