Can You Wash Microfiber Couch Cushions? (Find Out Now!)
I love the look of a microfiber couch, and really, who doesn’t? Microfiber is the modern alternative to suede and is regularly ranked as one of the easiest to clean materials for sofas. It’s even pet-friendly! Cleaning it, though, can be a bit of a hassle. Is it possible to wash microfiber couch cushions, and if so, how?
Microfiber couch cushions can be washed in the washing machine if they have a “W” or “S-W” code on them. If your cushions have an “S” code, then you can wash it through the use of rubbing alcohol. Vacuuming and wiping down your cushions with baby wipes can also help clean all cushions.
It’s good to know what you should expect as far as your couch cushion cleaning routine. This article will turn you into a regular Martha Stewart on the subject.
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Are Microfiber Couch Cushions Machine-Washable?
This all depends on the code that is found on your couch cushions. If your cushion is a “W” or “SW,” cushion or says “machine washable,” then you’re good to go. Otherwise, you may need to skip to the bottom of this article.
How Should You Clean Your Microfiber Couch Cushion?
So, it all depends on the code. But, there are things that you can do to keep them tidy on a day-to-day basis. If you don’t need to fully wash your cushion, just vacuum it with a hand vacuum and wipe it down with a baby wipe. If you are perfume-friendly like myself, you can also spray some perfume or linen spray on them.
How To Wash A Microfiber Couch Cushion In A Washing Machine
So, this is a cinch. Here’s what to do:
- Remove the cushion portion of the couch cushion if possible. You’re really only washing the cover of the cushion, not the cushion itself here.
- Machine wash it in cold water with a gentle detergent. Turn the cushion inside out to ensure that you don’t end up with too much damage. Gentle cycle works best with microfiber. Don’t use bleach on microfiber, unless you want white covers.
- Place it in the dryer on a low heat, tumble dry. If you want, you can use fabric softener. Once it’s dry, your cushion should be good to go.
How To Wash An “S” Microfiber Couch Cushion
Microfiber couch cushions with an “S” are going to be a little bit difficult, or rather, pricey, to wash. This is why they are going out of style. To wash an “S” microfiber couch cushion, you will need to use solvent-based cleaners rather than water-based options. So, you have two options here:
- You can take the cushion to a dry cleaning venue. This is often the best option for people to try, simply because dry cleaning at home doesn’t always provide good results.
- You can use a DIY dry cleaning kit. Many home improvement stores and grocery stores now provide dry cleaning solutions and kits at a discounted cost. To use this, you have to follow the instructions on your kit. It’s best to do a spot test before you rely on it.
How To Hand Wash A Microfiber Couch Cushion
Don’t want to risk a whirl in the washing machine? I can’t blame you. I have favorite cushion covers too. This is pretty simple, and tends to work with “W” and “SW” models:
- Remove the cushion from the cover and lay the cover flat. Make sure that you have the cleaning solvent of your choice nearby.
- Wet the cushion cover and then add the detergent. Most of the time, you just need a small coin-sized dollop of detergent per cushion.
- Scrub the cushion cover and work the detergent into a lather. Some people prefer to use scrubber brushes, but bunching things up can also work.
- Dunk your cover in cold water to rinse. You can also run it under a faucet, if you prefer that method instead.
- Lay your cushion cover flat and let it air dry. If you have a clothesline, then it’s going to be all the easier. If you want to do so, you can also put your cushion cover in a dryer, inside out, on low heat.
How Frequently Should Microfiber Be Cleaned?
There are several different factors that determine how often these should be cleaned. Microfiber should be cleaned at least once every two to three months. If your cushions are part of a much higher traffic area (such as the gaming couch), then you may need to clean it monthly. Pets can also increase the need to clean your cushions.
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Related Question
Solvent-based cleaners are cleaners that are primarily derived from strong solvents that break apart grease. This would mean that the cleaner is based on things like acetone, toluene, and TCE. These types of solvents are going to be far stronger than water-based solvents and generally work better on grease and oils.
Many people tend to avoid these solvents because they have potentially dangerous, cancer-causing compounds in them. Worse, they tend to be more expensive than your typical cleaning detergent. Sadly, this means that they are getting hard to find.
What temperature should you dry microfiber at?The ideal temperature is as low as you can go on your dryer’s setting, or better yet, clothesline it. Most microfiber will not shrink in higher heat, but that doesn’t mean it’s always a good idea. There is always a chance that your microfiber could shrink if it’s exposed to too high a heat. Low temperatures prevent shrinkage from happening and that’s great for long-term use.
Is it safe to machine-wash microfiber?Though it is generally safe to machine-wash microfiber of all types, it’s important that you don’t choose a very heavy-duty cycle. The fibers in microfiber can easily slough off in the wash if you scrub it too hard or churn the cloth too hard. This leads to a lower “life expectancy” for your microfiber goods. A gentle cycle is usually the best option for microfiber.
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Ossiana Tepfenhart is an expert writer, focusing on interior design and general home tips. Writing is her life, and it's what she does best. Her interests include art and real estate investments.
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