How to Clean Microfiber -- Part II

Learn how to clean microfiber. Microfiber is a synthetic textile with very thin strands made of various weaves, and is used for many fabric applications including furniture upholstery. A house cleaning business basic.

First what is microfiber and what is it used for?

Because of its resistance to stains and its durability microfiber is becoming quite popular. The correct cleaning methods must be used because there are different kinds of microfiber uphostery and fabrics.

Microfiber is often treated with stain resistant sprays, especially on upholstery. Even so, some microfiber fabrics cannot get wet because the fabric will hold watermarks. How to clean microfiber without water? Even though microfiber is stain resistant (especially if treated) it is still not immune to dirt or stains.

At some point in time all microfiber must be cleaned. So how to clean microfiber correctly is the next question that will be answered. Depending on the particular type of microfiber that you will be cleaning there are several factors to consider. The first thing to do when learning how to clean microfiber is to read the tag. Most microfiber items come along with a care tag or a care manual, even though you think this is a waste of time READ IT!!!!

Knowing how to clean microfiber will be a lot simpler after reading the tag or manual. If there is a "W" marked on the microfiber tag or manual, this will mean it is safe to use water on it. If this "W" is not clearly visible do not use water to clean the microfiber as there may be a problem with water marks. The first thing that you need to do is to test a small area that is not visible to the eye first to see how the microfiber reacts to the cleaning solution. Always use the cleaning solution sparingly take care to never saturate the microfiber material.

Vacuum the upholstery using a soft brush vacuum attachment. Use liquid Dove or Woolite, both gentle soaps, if you have to use a detergent. Also use only natural sponges or clean terry towel clothes. Never use colored sponges or cloths to avoid any dye bleeding into the fabric. If water can be used on the fabric use cold water.

A hair dryer and a soft bristle nailbrush will also come in handy. The vacuum will remove any loose debris and dust. In the cold water mix a few drops of liquid soap. The terrycloth towel or sponge should be dampened and then wrung out thoroughly. This will avoid any excess moisture on the microfiber material. To only way clean properly is to work with just a small area at a time, especially if you're cleaning a large area of the fabric.

Dampen the area or part of the area and wash gently. After you have washed one section of the microfiber dry it using a hair dryer on the lowest or coolest section. After the area is dry brush it lightly and gently with the nail brush to raise the knap.

Now to learn how to clean microfiber that cannot be cleaned with water.

Once again vacuum the microfiber thoroughly to remove any debris or dust. Work on a small section at a time; sprinkle a very small amount of dry detergent on the area.

Dreft or Ivory Snow are two excellent dry detergents to use. Gently brush dry detergent into the fabric using a soft bristled brush, such as a nail brush. Then vacuum the area completely before cleaning another section of the microfiber. If this method does not remove the stain, you might try a dry cleaning product.

Tough stains can be removed using original Lysol sprayed directly on the stain and then blot clean with a white cotton cloth. Another technique is to make a paste of water and baking soda and apply it to the stain. Wait a few minutes and wipe off.

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