How Can I Protect My Microsuede Upholstered Furniture?

Ask the furniture dealer about having the microsuede upholstery treated with a stain-guard formula if you have purchased a new piece of furniture. If you want to treat an existing piece of microsuede furniture in your home, you can coat the surface with a chemical protectant yourself, or hire a professional to apply it for you.

Vacuum the microsuede furniture at least once a week to remove surface dirt, pet hair and dust. Alternatively, you can use a lint roller to pick up loose debris. This will help protect the microsuede upholstery by preventing dirt from becoming embedded in the fabric, where it can wear away at the fibers.

Blot liquid spills immediately with an absorbent cloth or paper towel to remove as much of the liquid as possible. Liquids will bead on the microsuede surface initially, so it is important to remove the spill as soon as possible so that it doesn't have a chance to fully absorb into the fabric. Liquids that absorb into the microsuede upholstery can leave water marks that are difficult to remove.

Check the furniture tag for the product's cleaning code. Microsuede furniture will generally have a code of W, S, S/W or X. A cleaning code of "W" means that a water-soluble cleanser, such as soap and water, can be used safely to clean the upholstery. Furniture with a cleaning code of "S" must be cleaned with a solvent, such as rubbing alcohol, vodka or lighter fluid. Furniture with a cleaning code of "S/W" can be cleaned using either method, and furniture with a cleaning code of "X" can be vacuumed only.

Apply a small amount of rubbing alcohol or soapy water to the stain for microsuede upholstery that has a cleaning code of S, W or S/W to clean the area and remove the remaining liquid or solid debris in the microsuede upholstery. Rubbing alcohol is a good choice for microsuede because it is an effective cleaner and it evaporates quickly.

Let the area air dry. If the upholstery seems stiff, use a dry toothbrush or a stiff brush to restore its softness.