Keeping your microfiber couch clean is essential for maintaining its appearance and longevity. While regular cleaning routines can help manage daily wear and tear, sometimes deeper cleaning is necessary, especially when dealing with stubborn stains or accumulated dirt. One effective method for restoring your couch’s look is using a carpet cleaner.
With the right approach and tools, you can give your microfiber furniture a fresh, revitalized appearance without causing any damage. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the steps on how to clean microfiber couch with carpet cleaner so that you can get back to using it in no time! So grab your tools, and let’s get started!
Why Choose a Carpet Cleaner for Microfiber Couches?
Carpet cleaners are an excellent choice for cleaning microfiber couches because they are specifically designed to remove deep-seated dirt, grime, and stains without damaging delicate fabrics. Microfiber material can be tricky to clean with standard methods, as it tends to trap dirt within its fibers.
Carpet cleaners, however, use a combination of water, cleaning solution, and suction to tackle these issues effectively. They penetrate the surface, lifting out debris and restoring the couch’s original softness and appearance. Additionally, many carpet cleaners come with attachments specifically made for upholstery, making them a versatile and convenient option for maintaining microfiber furniture.
Tools and Materials You’ll Need
To clean your microfiber furniture effectively with a carpet cleaner, gather the following tools and materials:
- Carpet Cleaner: Ensure it has upholstery attachments for better precision.
- Cleaning Solution: Use a cleaning solution recommended for microfiber materials.
- Soft Brush or Sponge: Ideal for gently loosening dirt and stains without causing damage.
- Microfiber Cloths: For wiping and drying the surface after cleaning.
- Vacuum Cleaner: To remove loose dirt and debris before deep cleaning.
- Distilled Water (if required): Prevents watermarks and keeps the material’s texture intact.
Having these tools on hand ensures a thorough and efficient cleaning process, prolonging the life of your microfiber furniture.
10 Methods How to Clean Microfiber Couch with Carpet Cleaner
1. Vacuum Thoroughly Before Using the Carpet Cleaner
Before using any cleaning solution or moisture on your microfiber couch, start by thoroughly vacuuming the entire surface. Use a handheld vacuum or the upholstery attachment of your standard vacuum cleaner to lift dust, pet hair, crumbs, and loose debris from all corners, including under cushions and along seams.
This step is essential because applying carpet cleaner to a dirty surface may cause soil to embed deeper into the fabric. A clean foundation allows the carpet cleaner to work more effectively without smearing or setting in the dirt.
2. Choose the Right Upholstery Attachment for the Carpet Cleaner
Most modern carpet cleaners come with an upholstery tool designed specifically for cleaning furniture. This attachment usually features a smaller suction head and brush designed to be gentler on fabric.
Attach this to your carpet cleaner and test it on a small, hidden section of your microfiber couch first. This will allow you to assess how the material reacts to the cleaning solution and water pressure. Once confirmed, you can proceed with confidence, knowing your couch can handle the equipment without damage.
3. Use a Water-Based Cleaning Solution for “W” Labeled Microfiber
Microfiber furniture typically comes with a care tag labeled “W,” “S,” or “S-W,” indicating the suitable type of cleaning agent. For couches marked “W” or “S-W,” you can safely use a water-based carpet cleaner solution. Mix the cleaning solution as per manufacturer instructions and fill the cleaner’s reservoir.
Apply the cleaner gently over the couch in slow, even strokes, taking care not to saturate the fabric. Let the carpet cleaner extract as much moisture as possible as you go to avoid over-wetting, which can leave water stains or slow drying.
4. Spot-Treat Heavy Stains Before Full Cleaning
If your microfiber couch has specific areas of staining—such as drink spills, food marks, or greasy patches—it’s best to spot-treat these before running the carpet cleaner across the whole surface. Use a diluted upholstery cleaning solution or the same cleaner you’re using in your carpet machine.
Spray it lightly on the stained spot, let it sit for a few minutes, then use the carpet cleaner’s hand tool to agitate and extract. Treating spots first ensures that the overall cleaning process delivers a uniformly refreshed look.
5. Clean in Small Sections for Better Control
Rather than trying to clean the entire couch at once, divide the couch into manageable sections—like arms, cushions, backrest, and seat base. This method ensures even application of cleaner and more thorough moisture extraction.
Working in smaller sections also prevents over-saturation, which can lead to slow drying times and mildew growth. As you complete each area, allow it to dry slightly before moving on to the next, promoting better overall results.
6. Minimize Water Usage to Prevent Water Spots
Microfiber is a synthetic material with ultra-fine fibers that can become matted or stained if exposed to too much moisture. When using a carpet cleaner, set it to a “low-moisture” or “upholstery” setting, if available.
Use slow, overlapping strokes and always follow with a strong suction pass to extract excess liquid. The goal is to clean without soaking. If your machine lacks water control, limit the amount of cleaning solution applied and manually blot afterward with a dry towel to speed up drying and reduce the chance of leaving water rings.
7. Use a Fan or Hair Dryer to Speed Up Drying
After using your carpet cleaner on the microfiber couch, it’s crucial to dry it quickly to prevent mildew, odor, or discoloration. Open windows for ventilation or use a fan to circulate air in the room.
For particularly damp spots or deep cushion areas, use a hair dryer on a cool setting to gently blow air across the surface. Avoid using heat, as this can warp fibers. The quicker the couch dries, the more evenly it will maintain its texture and appearance.
8. Fluff the Fibers After Cleaning to Restore Texture
After your microfiber couch is cleaned and completely dry, you may notice that the fabric feels stiff or has a flattened appearance. This is normal and can be easily resolved. Use a clean, soft-bristle brush, such as a suede brush or even a clean toothbrush, to gently fluff and lift the fibers.
Brush in a circular motion to restore the soft, suede-like texture microfiber is known for. This step not only brings back the couch’s plush feel but also improves its overall appearance.
9. Use a Vinegar Rinse for Odor Neutralization
If your microfiber couch has lingering odors—from pets, smoke, or food—a vinegar rinse can help neutralize them during cleaning. Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a separate spray bottle. After using the carpet cleaner, lightly mist the surface with the vinegar solution and use the cleaner’s suction function to extract it.
Don’t soak the couch—just a light mist will do. The vinegar smell will dissipate as it dries, leaving your couch smelling clean and fresh without harsh chemicals.
10. Repeat Light Cleaning Monthly to Maintain Freshness
Deep cleaning with a carpet cleaner doesn’t have to be a once-a-year event. To keep your microfiber couch looking new and prevent deep staining, consider giving it a light refresh once a month. You don’t need to use a full reservoir of solution each time—just a diluted mix and a few passes over high-traffic areas like the seat cushions or armrests can make a big difference.
Regular maintenance prevents buildup of grime and reduces the need for intensive scrubbing or chemical treatment later on.
Things to Consider When Cleaning Upholstery
Type of Fabric
Before starting, check the care tag on your furniture to determine the cleaning method appropriate for the material. Some fabrics are water-safe, while others may require dry cleaning solutions.
Using the Right Tools
Invest in a quality upholstery attachment for your vacuum or carpet cleaner. These tools are designed to gently lift dirt and debris without damaging the fabric.
Test Cleaning Solutions
Always test any cleaning solution on a hidden area of the fabric first to ensure it won’t cause discoloration or damage.
Drying Time
Allow adequate time for cushions and upholstery to fully dry after cleaning. Good airflow or a fan can speed up the drying process, reducing the risk of mold or mildew formation.
Frequency of Cleaning
Establish a regular cleaning schedule based on the amount of use your furniture gets. For heavily used items, a monthly refresh can keep them looking and smelling great.
Conclusion
Cleaning a microfiber couch with a carpet cleaner might seem unconventional, but it can be highly effective when approached with the right methods. From thorough vacuuming and targeted spot-treating to low-moisture techniques and proper drying, these ten strategies allow you to make the most of your carpet cleaner while preserving the look and feel of your furniture.
With a little care and consistency, your microfiber couch can remain a cozy, clean, and stylish centerpiece in your home for years to come. Thanks for reading our blog post on how to clean microfiber couch with carpet cleaner! We hope you found it helpful and informative.
Huston Douthit is a distinguished figure in the world of furniture design, with a decade of expertise creating innovative and sustainable furniture solutions. His professional focus lies in merging traditional craftsmanship with modern manufacturing techniques, fostering designs that are both practical and environmentally conscious. As the author of Fruniturix, Huston delves into the art and science of furniture-making, inspiring artisans and industry professionals alike.
Education
- RMIT University (Melbourne, Australia)
Associate Degree in Design (Furniture)- Focus on sustainable design, industry-driven projects, and practical craftsmanship.
- Gained hands-on experience with traditional and digital manufacturing tools, such as CAD and CNC software.
- Nottingham Trent University (United Kingdom)
Bachelor’s in Furniture and Product Design (Honors)- Specialized in product design with a focus on blending creativity with production techniques.
- Participated in industry projects, working with companies like John Lewis and Vitsoe to gain real-world insights.
Publications and Impact
In Fruniturix, Huston shares his insights on furniture design processes, materials, and strategies for efficient production. His writing bridges the gap between artisan knowledge and modern industry needs, making it a must-read for both budding designers and seasoned professionals.