I've been surprised to find out that many cleaners are wary of, or actually refuse to clean microfiber upholstery. It seems this fear arises from the delicate appearance of the material, as well as its tendency to darken and flatten when it becomes wet.
Cleaners should realize that most microfiber upholstery is made from polyester, with a smaller percentage made from nylon. So while this material may look like "suede" or "Nubuck" leather, its actually a fairly easy and safe to clean synthetic product. What gives microfibers their "delicate look" is the fact the the "denier" or thickness of the fibers are finer than silk, and thus give a "natural/delicate" appearance to the material.
To safely and effectively clean microfibers, simply remember that this highly adsorbent (as opposed to absorbent) material will hold high volumes of fluid spills and body oils, and thus needs thorough preconditioning and dwell time before extraction. Hot water extraction can be augmented by towel extraction with the assistance of a hand buffer, such as are used for car detailing.
Care should be taken to not allow hot fittings or the metal parts of cleaning tool orifices to come into direct contact with the material for extended periods of time, and for vacuum adjustment valves to be opened when truck mount cleaning machines are being used.
Finishing of microfibers should be done with a clean, lint free towel.
Microfibers can be confused with "suede" or "nubuck leather", and there is a possibility that rayon microfibers (such as are used in garments) might be used for upholstery cleaning one day. To prevent damaging such materials, it is important that materials that appear to be microfibers be tested before cleaning.
Thursday, July 3, 2008
Microfiber Upholstery Cleaning
Posted by Jim Pemberton at 1:59 PM
Labels: Upholstery Cleaning
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10 comments:
Is it safe to steam clean a microfiber couch?
At this point, as long as we don't see rayon get introduced into the microfiber upholstery fabric market (it is used for garments), the current polyester and nylon microfibers will clean well with hot water extraction.
The use of "dry tools" will minimize the "flooding off the fabric and onto the floor" that tends to happen as you clean this material, but as always a drop cloth should be used.
Oily soils bond readily to polyester, so consider using a solvent additive in your prespray.
Jim
Does anyone have knowledge of microfiber deteriorating? I bought very expensive couches 7 years ago - they have not been used very much - just look good! Now the fabric is beginning to deteriorate. You can rub your hand across the couch and come away with a white chalky substance. Anything I can do?
Mel
I'm a bit puzzled as to the source of the white residue. Have you ever cleaned the material? Wipe the fabric with a damp cloth and after it dries, see if the residue still exists.
What is the best way to remove water rings from microfiber upholstery fabric?
I have a microfiber couch that has removable cases over the cushions and pillows. Can I put these in the washer and dryer on a delicate cycle?
Its not recommended that you remove cushion covers to clean cushions made of any textile, including microfibers.
The zippers on cushions are installed to make cushion foam easier to replace,not to make the cushion lauderable.
You would be best served to contact a professional cleaning service who knows how to clean microfiber fabrics.
like another commentator I would like to know how to get water spots/rings out of our microfiber couch. what cleaners are safe to use and what techniques should be used?
Hey Jim,
Can you explain the difference between flocked, and unflocked microfiber ?
All information are helpful and very interesting! Thanks for sharing, keep posting! Btw, here’s also the upholstery cleaning, btw you can also visit our website https://www.cottoncare.com.sg offering services in affordable prices. Keep it up!! God bless!
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