How To Clean Microsuede Furniture: Everything You Need To Know

With so many variations of the fabric now available, cleaning Microsuede furniture takes a little research, know-how, and experience. The tightly-woven fibres of microsuede create a durable and water-repellent surface, making it a popular choice for furniture. Microsuede furniture plays a multifunctional role in the house, serving as a comfortable and versatile option for everyday family life, so maintaining its cleanliness is especially important. Vacuuming microsuede furniture regularly helps keep it clean.

Although nylon and polyester are the most popular types, many people are now saying that the comfort and feel of a Microsuede bean bag chair make it incomparable to any other. Because nylon and polyester have glossy sheens, they are relatively easy to clean, typically requiring just a wipe with a damp cloth. Cleaning microsuede furniture, however, involves a bit more care due to its soft, luxurious texture, which closely resembles natural suede. With the numerous fabric variations available today, cleaning a microsuede bean bag properly requires thorough research, practical know-how, and some experience to maintain its comfort and appearance over time. Regular cleaning and proper care can help reduce wear and prolong the lifespan of microsuede furniture. Microsuede is more water-resistant and less prone to staining than many other materials, which adds to its appeal. Using a spray-on fabric protector can help keep microsuede upholstery spot-free for an extended period.

Cleaning Microsuede Furniture: what is microsuede?

Micro Suede is a type of microfiber, specifically a brand, made from super-thin strands of polyester or rayon. The strands are thinner than natural fibres, and when woven, they can be made to resemble other materials, including silk and suede. Microsuede can be used to create a wide range of consumer products, including clothing, bedding, tablecloths, furniture, furniture covers, and insulation. Invented in Japan in the 1970s, Micro Suede was originally called Ultrasuede. Today, Micro Suede and other microfiber products are extremely popular because they are affordable and provide a vast array of benefits, including the following: Microsuede furnishings may be more durable and stain-resistant than those made from other fabrics. Regular cleaning can maintain the appearance and smell of microsuede upholstery over time.

• Strong and durable

• Lightweight

• Comfortable feel

• Soft texture

• Shrink resistant

• Stain-resistant

• Breathable

• Resistant to clinging and piling

• Resistant to colour fading

Faux suede does not clean like real suede

The first rule of cleaning a faux suede bean bag chair is to not mistake it for natural suede. Natural Suede is a type of leather, and it cannot be cleaned in the same manner as a synthetic material. Another mistake many people make is believing that Microsuede is stain proof. Although it is water-resistant and stain-resistant, it can stain given the right conditions. Saturating it with water or cleaning solutions may make the stain worse or cause other blemishes that are harder to clean. Microsuede fabric can be cleaned using either water-based or solvent-based cleaners depending on the fabric’s care code. Solvents, such as rubbing alcohol and other specialised cleaning products, can be used to remove deep or stubborn stains from microsuede, but should be chosen carefully to avoid damaging the fabric. But what is the difference between microsuede and microfiber?

Read the label before cleaning microsuede

Before cleaning your microsuede bean bags, please read the label. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for cleaning and caring for the fabric to prevent damage and ensure effective cleaning. The label will include a cleaning code, and it may give you instructions for proper care. In most cases, the tag will be on the inside of the cover along the seam, but some bean bags may have the label on the outside.

The cleaning code on the label may be any of the following:

• W – You may use only water-based cleaning solutions, including liquids and foams.

• S – Use only solvent-based cleaning solutions on this furniture. For microsuede with an 'S' code, use solvent-based cleaners instead of water.

• S-W – You may use either solvent-based or water-based cleaners.

• X – The consumer can not clean other than vacuuming. Dry cleaning may be possible.

Regardless of the code on the label, you should never use any of the following cleaners. Doing so may cause irreparable damage.

• Bleach or chlorine-based cleaners

• Nail polish remover or acetone-based cleaners

• Carpet cleaner

To make cleaning easy, you can purchase a commercial cleaning product specifically formulated for Microsuede or microfiber, but be sure to use the correct cleaning solution indicated on the label.

Pre-Cleaning Preparation

Before you start cleaning your microsuede or microfiber furniture, taking a few preparatory steps can make the entire process smoother and help protect your investment. Proper preparation ensures that your cleaning method is safe for your specific fabric and that you achieve the best possible results, whether you’re dealing with a lightly soiled microfiber couch or a stubborn stain on your favourite microsuede chair.

Begin by gathering all the necessary cleaning supplies. For most microfiber and microsuede furniture, this includes a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment, a spray bottle for applying cleaning solutions, a soft-bristled brush, and a clean, dry cloth. Depending on your furniture’s cleaning code (W, S, or S-W), you may also need water-based or solvent-based cleaners, a small amount of rubbing alcohol for tough stains, and baking soda to help neutralise odours. Having the right tools on hand will make it easier to tackle small spills, dirt, and stains as soon as they appear.

Next, carefully inspect your furniture for any stained areas or spots that are more heavily soiled. For stubborn stains that don’t come out with a quick wipe, you may need to lightly dab the stained area with a cloth dampened with the appropriate cleaning solution. If the stain persists, consider using a professional upholstery cleaner or a recommended cleaning method for your specific fabric. Always remember that microsuede and microfiber are stain-resistant and water-resistant, but prompt attention to spills and stains will help maintain their appearance.

Before applying any cleaning solution, always read the manufacturer’s instructions and test a small, hidden spot on your couch or chair. This test spot will help ensure that the cleaner won’t damage or discolour the fabric. For lightly soiled areas, a quick vacuuming or gentle brushing can remove surface dirt and dust. A spray of cleaning solution, followed by a gentle wipe with a soft cloth, can refresh the fabric.

If your furniture has removable cushions or covers, remove them and clean them separately according to the care label instructions. This prevents dirt from spreading and allows for a more thorough cleaning. Also, consider the location of your furniture. If it’s in a busy area or if you have kids, regular vacuuming and spot cleaning will help keep your microsuede couch or microfiber furniture looking its best.

By following these pre-cleaning preparation steps, you’ll be ready to safely and effectively clean your furniture, preserving its stain-resistant and water-resistant qualities. Whether you’re dealing with everyday messes or more challenging stains, a little preparation goes a long way in keeping your microsuede and microfiber furniture clean, comfortable, and looking like new.

cleaning water-safe microsuede

If the code on your label is W or S-W, the bean bag chair is considered water safe, and you can often use soap, detergent, and water to clean it. If your chair or another piece of water-safe furniture is only lightly soiled, follow these steps:

1. Brush or vacuum the dirt from the surface of the bean bag.

2. Lightly mist the bean bag with warm water.

3. Blot the damp area with a clean sponge or cloth, but refrain from wiping it.

4. If it is not clean, repeat steps two and three.

5. When the bean bag is clean, blot the remaining moisture with a dry cloth.

If your water-safe furniture is stained, you can remove the stains by following these instructions:

1. If you spill liquid on the bean bag, dab it with a clean, dry cloth or several paper towels. Do not rub the liquid into the bean bag, as this could cause it to penetrate deeply into the Microsuede, creating a permanent stain. Removing stains from microsuede furniture is best done quickly before they soak in.

2. Allow the bean bag to become completely dry before proceeding to vacuum or brush the surface.

3. When the bean bag is dry, use your vacuum’s brush attachment to clean the surface and remove any remaining dirt gently.

4. Fill a bucket with about one gallon of water and add a few drops of liquid dish soap. Mix the soap into the water until a lather forms.

5. Use a clean, damp cloth to scoop some of the suds out of the bucket.

6. Lightly dab the Microsuede bean bag chair with the sudsy cloth.

7. If the bean bag is still dirty, dip the cloth into the water until it is damp. Then, lightly wipe the surface of the cover using circular motions, being careful not to saturate the fabric.

8. Blot the wet area with a clean, dry cloth until it is dry.

9. After it is dry, run a soft brush over the surface of the bean bag to align the fibres. Home solutions such as vinegar and baking soda can effectively clean stubborn stains from microsuede upholstery.

Cleaning solvent-safe microsuede

If only solvent-based cleaners are safe for your Microsuede bean bag chair, you will need to use an alternate method to clean it. One of the easiest routes to take is to purchase a commercial product specifically designed for your furniture and follow the accompanying instructions. However, if you cannot find a cleaner or believe it is too expensive, you can try one of the following:

• Dry detergent – Vacuum the bean bag to remove any dirt, and lightly brush the dry detergent over the stained area. Then, use a vacuum to remove the dry detergent and the stain.

• Lysol – Lightly spray the stain with a can of aerosol Lysol, and blot it dry with a clean cloth.

• Rubbing alcohol – Dampen a cloth with a small amount of rubbing alcohol, and blot the stained area with the cloth. Allow it to air dry. To treat stains, rubbing alcohol can be effective when used on microsuede.

• Diluted vinegar – Applying a mixture of diluted vinegar can help remove stubborn stains from microsuede.

Additional tips for cleaning microsuede

• If the outer shell is removable, check the care instructions on the tag to see if it can be machine washed.

• Always clean spills as soon as possible for best results.

• If it gets wet, dry the cover with a hairdryer on the lowest setting. Fans or hair dryers can help speed up the drying time for damp microsuede furniture.

• Tried everything, but the stain on your couch remains? Call a professional upholstery cleaner.

• If there is dust or lint on the surface, consider using a lint brush or sticky tape to remove the lint.

• After cleaning, it's suggested to brush the microsuede surface to restore its texture.