How to Clean Various Stains from Microfiber Couches

You know that spills should be cleaned as soon as they happen. But did you know that different stains require different approaches in terms of cleaning products and methods? Knowing how to clean microfiber couch stains is crucial because it helps to prolong their lifespan.

Everyday home activities result in varying stains, from drink stains to wine stains, food stains, cigarette stains, dog poop and urine stains, and more.

We shall help you remove varying stains from your precious microfiber couch without damaging it or using expensive store products. We shall also explain if you can use a stain remover on microfiber or spray vinegar.

Of course, if you don't want to spend the time figuring out which DIY method to use, or are worried about doing it wrong or leaving a residue behind, you can always call in professional upholstery cleaners Zerorez®!

How to Clean Microfiber Couch Stains

Before you get started, gather all your cleaning products.

• Vacuum cleaner
• Soft-bristled brush
• Bowl or bucket
• Microfiber towel
• Blow dryer (optional)
• Distilled water or a solvent (based on the cleaning instructions)
• Microfiber spray on protector
• Gloves and a mask

Step #1. Check the Cleaning Instructions

Microfiber couch manufacturers provide cleaning instructions you must follow to ensure it's not damaged during the cleaning process. They write letters on the tag to notify you which method is appropriate for washing the couch.

• X: Vacuum
• W: Water-based solution
• S: Solvent-based cleaner
• S-W: Water or solvent-based cleaners
• If there's no tag, use solvent-based cleaners.

Step #2. Gather the Cleaning Products

Gather everything you'll need for the task. You don't need to spend a lot to clean your microfiber couch. Most of the products in your bathroom and kitchen can help if you use the right quantity and correct cleaning method.

Suppose you're required to use a solvent; use dry-cleaning solvents such as propylene glycol, toluene, acetone, trichloroethylene (TCE), glycerin, isopropyl alcohol, and methyl ethyl ketone.

Water-based cleansers include mild dish detergent, upholstery shampoo, and gentle soap. Get these or any other from the nearest store if you don't have them in your home.

Step #3. Vacuum the Couch

Your couch might be heavily soiled if you have pets or small, super-active kids. Vacuum thoroughly using an upholstery attachment to lift pet hair, dirt, and debris. Where applicable, remove the cushions and vacuum all sides.

Step #4. Test Your Cleaning Product

Even with the recommended cleaning products, always spot-test to ensure you won't ruin your couch. Dab a little cleaner with the microfiber cloth and apply it to the underside of the couch or the backside of the couch's "skirt."

Wait about 20 minutes until the area is dry to see the effects. If the product works without causing any damage, use it to remove the couch stains.

Step #5. Spot Clean

Dab the cloth with the water-based or solvent-based solution and spot-clean the stain on microfiber. Alternatively, put the solution in a spray bottle and spray it directly on the stain, then dab it with a white cloth (or the same color as the couch).

Change the microfiber cloth often to avoid transferring the stain to other areas.

Step #6. Dry the Wet Spot

Holding the blow dryer 6 inches away, dry the just-cleaned spot using the coolest, lowest setting. If you don't have a blow dryer, open the doors and windows to let fresh air into the room so your couch dries quickly and evenly.

Step #7. Fluff the Couch

Fluff the microfiber couch once it is dry to prevent stiffness and dullness. A gentle circular motion with a soft-bristled brush should do the job. This restores its original feel.

How Do You Get Tough Stains Out of a Microfiber Couch?

Oily, sweaty, or soiled hands leave tough stains on a microfiber couch. They could be difficult to remove without proper skill or cleaning products. Here's how to handle tough stains.

Oily Hands Stain

• Spray rubbing alcohol on the stain
• Dab it using a microfiber cloth or a toothbrush so that it absorbs the oil stain
• Wait for about 20 to 30 minutes for alcohol to absorb the stain
• Dampen another microfiber cloth with distilled water and use it to remove the last bits of oil stain

If you don't have white cloth, use a microfiber cloth the same color as the couch. Use cornstarch if you don't have rubbing alcohol.

Sweat Stain

Couches absorb sweat from your hands and can leave a foul odor, making it troublesome to deal with the mess. Below is what you need to do the task.

• White vinegar
• Dishwashing detergent
• White towel/microfiber cloth/sponge
• Vacuum cleaner
• Bowl
• Baking soda

White vinegar neutralizes the sweat odor and freshens your couch.

There are three ways of dealing with sweat stains on the couch:

Method 1

• Add water (3 parts), white vinegar (1 part), and mild dishwashing detergent, such as Dawn (½ tablespoons), to a bowl.
• Dampen a clean towel with the solution and remove the stubborn stain using strong, circular strokes.
• Don't overwet the couch; you may damage it. Allow it to dry, and inspect it.
• Repeat the process.

Method 2

• Sprinkle a light layer of baking soda and white vinegar on the stubborn stain
• Use a sponge or a dry, white microfiber cloth to blot out the stain
• Sprinkle baking soda and allow it to sit for at least 30 minutes to freshen the couch.
• Vacuum the couch and inspect to see if the stain is gone.
• Repeat the process if necessary.

Method 3

• Dampen a clean, white microfiber cloth with white vinegar
• Gently rub the stained spot
• Dry the spot using another clean, dry microfiber cloth
• Allow the couch to dry, and inspect it.
• Repeat the process if the stain is still there, being careful not to overwet the area.

How to Remove Oil Stain From Microfiber Couch

Vegetable oil, olive oil, and other oil stains can be stubborn, especially if you don't know how to clean them properly.

Below are simple, effective steps to remove oil stains from microfiber couches.

1. Use a dry, clean microfiber cloth or towel to blot (don't rub lest you spread the stain further) up the stain.
2. Sprinkle cornstarch or baking soda on the area and allow it to sit for at least 20 to 30 minutes to absorb the remaining oil.
3. Vacuum clean to remove the baking soda or cornstarch.
4. Apply a solvent of your choice on any inconspicuous area to test its effectiveness.
5. Blot out the stain, working from its outer edges to its interior edges.
6. Repeat until the solvent is absorbed completely.

How Do You Get Ink Stains Out of a Microfiber Couch

Removing ink stains from a microfiber couch (and other fabrics) is easy.

1. Test (and always do!) rubbing alcohol on a hard-to-see area of your couch to see if it will damage it before you use it on a conspicuous area. If it works fine, proceed.
2. Apply alcohol on one of the cotton balls and dab it on the ink stain.
3. Rub the stain gently until it's fully gone.
4. Allow a few minutes for the couch to dry.
5. If you notice any traces of stain, repeat the process until the stain is gone.
6. Restore the stiffness of your microfiber by brushing it with a stiff-bristled brush.

How to Remove Grease Stain From Microfiber Couch

Bacon fat, face creams, cooking oil, suntan lotion, butter, and mayonnaise can leave hard-to-deal-with grease stains on a microfiber couch.

To remove grease stains from a microfiber couch, you need a blow dryer, heavy-duty liquid detergent, a few drops of hot water, and a microfiber cloth.

Follow the steps below to remove the stain.

Step 1: Pretreat the Stain

Pretreating the grease stain with a stain remover boosts your regular detergent, making removing stains easier without repeating the process.

Follow the instructions on the product label to apply the pretreatment stain remover to the grease stain. Allow the stain remover to penetrate the stain by allowing it to sit for the recommended time.

Step 2: Remove the Stain

• Apply a little liquid detergent on the stain
• Dampen a clean microfiber cloth with hot water and use it to work in the detergent by rubbing the affected area
• Repeat the process until the stain is gone

Step 3: Dry the Couch

Use a dry microfiber cloth (the same color as your couch) to dry the area, or use a hair dryer. Rub the couch with a clean towel or a soft-bristled brush to restore its puffiness.

Is Microfiber Stain Resistant?

Microfiber made from pure polyester is resistant to spills and stains. Since polyester is synthetic, it has a static charge that attracts lint and pet hair. If you have a microfiber couch, you're better off with hypoallergenic dog breeds to avoid frequent couch cleaning.

Microfiber, especially microfiber microsuede, is easy to clean and maintain though. But, you can see a full list of upholstery fabrics for dogs if you want to know what's best for pets.

Can I Spray Vinegar on Microfiber Couch?

Absolutely! Vinegar is a natural couch cleaner that is effective in removing stubborn stains. You can use it on couches with an "S" or "S-W" cleaning tag. To clean your couch, add 1 tsp. of baking soda, 1 bottle of water, and a capful of vinegar in a spray bottle and shake thoroughly.

Lightly spray the solution on the stain and then blot it out with a clean, dry cloth.

Can You Use Stain Remover on Microfiber?

You can use a stain remover on microfiber if it doesn't cause discoloration. To avoid damage, dab a small, inconspicuous area to see the results before using the stain remover on any microfiber.

Seek Professional Microfiber Cleaning Help!

Did you know that Zerorez can professionally clean microfiber couches, removing even stubborn microfiber couch stains, quickly, effectively, and at an affordable price?

We're the experts in the field and offer other cleaning services, such as carpets, air ducts, and tile and grout cleaning in many locations throughout the US. Our contact is 866-937-6739 and you can schedule online.