How to Clean Grease Off a Microfiber Couch

A piece of microfiber fabric.

Microfiber is a man-made, polyester material that has a soft, plush feel and appearance. Microfiber is used frequently to upholster furniture because it is comfortable, lint-free and easy to maintain. Although microfiber is water-repellent and stain-resistant, it can be stained by such substances as grease. You can remove grease stains with minimal effort. Check for the cleaning code on your microfiber furniture's tag (either a "W" or an "S") before attempting to clean it.

Things You'll Need

• Solvent-based stain remover, such as Resolve Spot Magic or Guardsman AFTA Spot Cleaner
• Soft-bristled toothbrush
• Vacuum
• Grease-cutting dish liquid
• Cool water
• Small bowl
• Clean, lint-free towels

Instructions

Cleaning "S"-Coded Furniture

1. Spray a solvent-based stain remover onto the grease stain.

2. Agitate the stain remover gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush.

3. Allow the stain remover to dry on the microfiber couch or other furniture.

4. Vacuum off any solvent residue that remains.

Cleaning "W"-Coded Furniture

1. Mix a 50/50 blend of grease-cutting dish liquid and cool water in a small bowl.

2. Apply the dish liquid solution to the grease stain with a clean, lint-free towel.

3. Agitate the dish liquid solution with a soft-bristled toothbrush.

4. Rinse the dish liquid solution by blotting with a towel dampened with clean, cool water.

5. Allow the microfiber couch to air dry.

6. Repeat the process, if necessary, until the stain disappears.

Tips & Warnings

• If microfiber becomes hard to the touch after cleaning, soften it up by gently scrubbing it with a dry, soft-bristled toothbrush. Lingering odors can be removed by applying baking soda to the affected area and vacuuming it off after a few minutes.

• Do not use water to clean "S"-coded microfiber furniture, because it will cause water stains. Never use nail polish remover (acetone) to clean microfiber.

References

• Techniques for Cleaning Microfiber
• Microfiber Cleaning Products
• Information on Microfiber Furniture Tag Codes

Resources

• Tips for Microfiber Sofa Care
• Cleaning Microfiber Fabric