Microfiber fabricsare durable and affordable, yet like most materials, they can get stained and dirty.

Our comprehensive guide shows you just how to clean your microfiber couch.

Cleaning a microfibercouchcan be a bit of a challenge.

Blue microfiber couch cleaned with bristle brush next to basket of cleaning materials

The Spruce / Sanja Kostic

Microfiber is generally made with polyester or a blend of polyester fibers and is prone to watermarks.

If you have pets or kids, this is particularly important.

Spills and stains should be treated as quickly as possible to avoid a tougher removal process later.

Materials and tools to clean a microfiber couch

The Spruce / Sanja Kostic

Deep clean a microfiber couch seasonally, or even monthly if it receives heavy use from pets and kids.

Vacuum the Couch

Vacuumevery surface of the upholstery, including the undersides of the cushions.

Pay particular attention to crevices and stitched seams that can collect dirt and crumbs.

Blue microfiber couch vacuumed with vacuum hose and upholstery attachment

The Spruce / Sanja Kostic

Whisk it together to create a lot of soapy suds.

Fill a second bucket with plain water.

Start at the top and work your way down to prevent dirty suds from dripping onto already cleaned areas.

Cleaning solution mixed with water and liquid dishwashing soap with whisk in large bowl

The Spruce / Sanja Kostic

Rinse the brush or sponge frequently in the clean water before you dip back into the soapy suds.

Allow the fabric to air-dry completely.

Use a vacuum or upholstery brush to fluff any matted fibers.

Scrub brush rubbing cleaning solution on blue microfiber couch

The Spruce / Sanja Kostic

Vacuum First

Before using your solvent, carefully vacuum every fabric surface on the couch.

(If you’re using a commercial cleaning product, follow the directions on the label.)

Allow it to sit for at least one hour before vacuuming it up.

Damp green microfiber cloth rinsing blue microfiber couch with water

The Spruce / Sanja Kostic

The cornstarch will absorb the oil.

Once the stain is up, spot clean the area with either the soap suds or rubbing alcohol method.

Use a dull knife or your fingernail to break away the hardened gum.

Blue microfiber couch cleaned with vacuum hose and upholstery attachment

The Spruce / Sanja Kostic

Work slowly and refreeze the gum as needed.

Remove any remaining stain with either the soap suds or rubbing alcohol method.

Odors

Before bedtime, sprinkle the entire couch with plainbaking soda.

Rubbing alcohol sprayed on blue microfiber couch with brown spray bottle

The Spruce / Sanja Kostic

Use a soft-bristled brush to work it in lightly.

The next day, vacuum away the baking soda and the odors.

If you spill some water or other liquid on your microfiber couch, it should be fine.

Scrubbing brush spreading rubbing alcohol across blue microfiber cloth

The Spruce / Sanja Kostic

Treat the stain, if there is one, being careful not to soak the area with extra liquid.

Yes, it’s safe to steam clean a microfiber couch.

Bedding and Upholstery Regulations.

Vacuum hose with upholstery attachment fluffing blue microfiber couch after rinsing

The Spruce / Sanja Kostic

Department of Labor and Industry, Government of PA.