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The Best Way to Clean My Microsuede Couch

Microsuede is a type of microfiber, a synthetic material made of very small strands tightly knitted or woven together. Microsuede is an affordable alternative to real suede and is often used on furniture, because it is soft, low maintenance and resistant to a wide variety of stains. The best way to clean your microsuede couch is with multi-purpose cleaning supplies that most people have at home, together with reference to information provided by the manufacturer on the tag of the couch or in the owner's manual.

Things You'll Need

  • Vacuum hose and brush attachment or lint brush
  • Paper towels
  • Solvent-based cleaner or dish soap
  • Sponge
  • Towels
  • Baby wipes

Instructions

    • 1

      Vacuum your microsuede couch with a vacuum hose and brush attachment or use a lint brush to remove all dirt and debris.

    • 2

      Check your microsuede couch for a tag with a code on it. Microfiber furniture often comes with a tag with one of the following codes: "W" (use a water-based cleaner, such as dish soap and water), "S" (use a solvent-based cleaner) or "S-W" (use a water-based cleaner or a solvent-based cleaner). If your couch has a tag with an S, check that your commercial cleaning solution lists microsuede or microfiber as a suitable material to treat. If your couch has no tag, check your owner's manual for cleaning recommendations.

    • 3

      Blot any liquid spills straight away with paper towels. Liquids take a long time to soak into microsuede, because it is water-resistant. Act quickly to prevent permanent staining.

    • 4

      Test your commercial cleaner on an inconspicuous spot on an "S"-tagged couch for adverse reactions. Follow the manufacturer's directions for use.

    • 5

      Fill a bucket with warm water and add a couple of drops of dish soap. Dip a sponge into the solution, squeeze out excess water and rub the stain. Use as little liquid as possible, and only rub areas that are stained. Rinse the sponge, immerse it in fresh water and wipe the treated part of the couch to get rid of all soap. Pat the spot gently with a dry towel. Follow this process if your couch has a "W" tag.

    • 6

      Test the water-treatment method on an inconspicuous part of your couch if it has no tag or owner's manual, to avoid an adverse reaction.

    • 7

      Remove any water rings left from the stain-removal process by wiping the surface with a baby wipe.