Wednesday, May 2, 2012

How to clean a microfiber couch

Welcome to my blog!

If you are coming from Pinterest I'm so glad to have you here!

At the end of the post I will have answers to some FAQ's.

If I don't cover your question feel free to leave a comment and I will do my best to answer it.

However, PLEASE leave and email address with your comment/question so that I can get back to you.

Thank you!

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When Jake and I got married we bought a microfiber couch for screaming deal.

I remember sitting in the furniture section at a local store and raving to Jake how great microfiber would hold up with kids.

Ummm yeah.... apparently I was clueless about microfiber at the time.

Don't get me wrong, the couch is in great shape, but microfiber (at least light tan microfiber) shows stains and water marks like nobodies business.

Case in point:
 (And please don't judge! Last week we had the stomach flu and sippy cups and popsicles attacked the couch.)






Yeah that's nasty. 

So I found a great how-to on Pinterest and thought I'd give it a try.

What you'll need




Make sure you get a WHITE sponge and WHITE bristle brush so that there is no accidental color transfer onto the couch when you are scrubbing. 

(I used a light brown sponge because that's what we had on hand and it matched to color of our sofa; so you could go that route as well. )

Pour the rubbing alcohol in the spray bottle and SATURATE the stained area.

I know this seems counterintuitive, but rubbing alcohol evaporates much faster than water so it won't leave a water mark.   


Take your sponge and start scrubbing the area.

Don't be afraid to use all your muscles and scrub hard. :)

You'll start to see the dirt coming off onto your sponge.


Ewww!

If your sponge get's really dirty before you are finished, switch it out for a new one to avoid rubbing old dirt onto clean areas.

Let the areas your sprayed dry. They will look darker than the rest of your couch and will feel kind of hard to the touch, but don't worry about it. 

That's what the bristle brush is for.

Once the couch is COMPLETELY dry, take your bristle brush and with swirling motions, refluff the areas you cleaned.




 Seriously, I was getting ready to try and convince Jake to let us get a new couch, but it looks NEW.



God bless rubbing alcohol and sponges. 



 I promise the results are so awesome you won't want to let a sippy cup within 3 feet of your couch. :)

UPDATE: Our soon to be 3 year old took PEN to this couch and the same method as above got it out!

Click HERE to see more.


FAQS:

Will doing this effect the warranty on my couch?

I have no idea. Every warranty is different. The best way to answer is call the store you purchased from or the provider of the warranty.

Does the alcohol smell make my couch smell like alcohol?

No. The room your couch is in will smell like alcohol or about 15 or 20 minutes but just ventilate the room as much as possible while you are cleaning and after.

How often can I do this to my couch?

I do this about once a month and there hasn't been any damage to our cushions.

It didn't get all the stains out. Why?

I'm not a stain master so this is just my thought. Stains like grease or food are much harder to get out. My son wiped his hands on the arm after eating french fires and I had to scrub 2 separate times to get it out and even now there is a very faint mark.

If you don't get it all out the first time, wait a day or 2 and clean it again. And don't forget to really scrub and REPLACE your sponge when it gets dirty. Otherwise you will just be rubbing old dirt onto new places.

Does this work on other colors (still microfiber)?

Yes. I wish I still had pictures that people sent me of their before's and afters, but I've seen it done on dark microfiber and red microfiber etc.

Does this work on other fabrics or materials?

I haven't tried. If you are curious try it on an inconspicuous spot.

There is a ring were I sprayed the alcohol. Why?

More than likely you didn't scrub/dry that spot adequately. Remember even though the alcohol evaporates very quickly it is still a liquid. You want to saturate your area but not drench it.

If you are left with a ring, spray the area like you would a stain and scrub it out.

How long does it take to scrub and dry?

This really depends on how dirty your couch is. It took me about half an hour total to clean ours but now the monthly spot checks take 10 minutes max.

How soon can I sit on the couch after I clean it?

Once it dries and you use your brush to fluff it you can it on it.

I hope this helps! Again if you have a question I didn't answer please leave a comment with your EMAIL address so that I can get back to you. :)






1,051 comments:

  1. Wow that's amazing! Such a great tip! I never knew you could clean it that way. Thanks!

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  2. Cool! I also heard Windex works to get stains out. Thankfully there is something that works because that microfibre sure looks scuzzy after a while...

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    1. windex is NOT a good idea if you have pets-especially cats. it smells too similar to their urine, because of the ammonia in it, so it almost convinces them to do naughty things there. just thought i'd give you that quick word of warning :)
      ((coming from the owner of 4 cats, 2 of which are 12 & 13. i am an expert in naughty cats :/ ))

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  3. wow! that's unbelievable!! looks great! glad you all are feeling better, too!

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  4. Julia - I agree that micro-fiber is a way over-rated fabric. I was told by the salesperson how rugged the material is. Wrong! We are a retired couple who seldom even sit in our sofa but our caramel brown sofa has stains that wont' come out. I'm going to try your method.
    Thanks so much!

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  5. Wow, that really came clean!

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  6. I always like to see someone else try something before I do. Thanks for taking that plunge. LOL! Our couch definitely needs a good cleaning too and now I have a reliable source to refer too.

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  7. THANK YOU! Just in time to get my couch clean before baby shower this sat. :)

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  8. That's amazing! Thanks for sharing!

    Kelly @ herringbone lane

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  9. amazing! i have black microsuede so i hides almost everything but the crusties! i am going to try this

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  10. Wow, that's great! It really does look brand new!

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  11. does this work on any material couch??

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  12. does this work on any material couch??

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  13. I have the same color couch. Thanks for sharing. I am going to give this a try this week-end.

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  14. Shut up!!!!! We have slipcovers on our couches for just. The same ugly reason...I am trying thistomorrow. And thanks so much for sharing

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  15. It's almost like I watched it go away before my eyes! I will have to PIN this!!
    My sister needed to remove marker from her brand new microfiber couch and she got out the Mr. Clean Magic Eraser. It took it all off. I would have never thought of using that.

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    1. I wonder if a magic eraser would work on crayon? A friends kid brought some crayons over and gave it to my 2 yr old who colored on our microfiber chair. Ugh!

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    2. Our friend's daughter wrote on our microfiber sofa with a dry erase marker. I tried the Mr. Clean Magice Eraser and it didn't work at all. : (

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    3. Try sunscreen my daughter wrote on ours with black permeant marker It came out n smelled good lol

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    4. For grease stains try rubbing chalk on it and let it sit for a bit. I recently discovered this for clothing and it works great. I would think it would work for this.

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    5. If crayon really ruined it, I would try the same method I had to use to get candle wax out of our carpet. Tear up strips of brown paper bag, heat up an iron and iron over the spot with the paper as a layer in between. The paper absorbs the oil that is melted by the iron. Removed an entire white candle that was left burning on our dresser- was A LOT! Good luck, I'm off to try the alcohol on my dining room chairs

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    6. When moving from michigan to texas the box filled with bathroom stuff dripped leg wax onto my microfiber couch. I used an iron & brown paper bag it brought out all the wax but still left a brown stain :( plus a new stain from the print on the paper bag. Arg! But I will soon try the magic eraser & rubbing alcohol if need be

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    7. I used rubbing alcohol on our cream micro fiber couch when my boys colored it with a permanent marker...Came right out!

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    8. I use the highest percentage of alcohol I can find. (94 or 96%)My little guy scribbled all over the couch with a pen and you can't even tell but it took some time and elbow grease to get it out so don't give up to quickly on tougher stains!!

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  16. That is awesome! I have the same colored couch (stains and all).

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  17. This is great! I think we have the same couch and the same stains. I'm going to try this weekend.

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  18. I actually had that exact same PIN, but hadn't done any cleaning yet. glad to see your testimonial, and especially glad your couch is clean! OUCH it was dirty!

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  19. May I ask the ultimate question? How long did it take to get out ALL the stains?

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  20. We have a very similar couch and it has fallen victim to sippy's of milk and juice, I usually use resolve but excited to try this!

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  21. I am so excited to try this. My couch is sage green... its so dirty and worn along the edges of the cushions - I've wondered how to replace them? Can't wait!

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  22. wow nice tips to improve and clean our home furniture amazing its very useful for every one.

    baby furniture fort worth
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    leather furniture fort worth

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  23. Also, not to self promote too much but Norwex paste with an enviro rag does WONDERS! It is enzyme based, so chemical free and can be used on your entire house but it truly does clean up your micro fiber sofas. My hubs never believed me when I told him about the stains till one time I let him see a weeks damage on our couch and then I used the paste and rag and it was new again :)

    Scope it if you are interested in a chemical free way to clean your home :) clerissalewis.norwex.biz

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  24. Just wondering if this actually works on darker colored microfiber couches??

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  25. I can't wait to try this! We have spots all over our couches. I normally clean it with water, but it leaves some stains. I guess I will be doing that sometime this weekend.

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    1. If you wet done the entire section you won't be left with any water marks.

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  26. I am trying this right now! We were told that this was the best fabric for kids..."all you do is wipe it with a damp cloth" they failed to mention that the damp cloth will leave water marks! grrr My couch looks horrible! Can't wait to see the end results :)

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    1. we were told the same thing our couch didn't even make it a year before i decided to get rid of it wish i would have seen this a little sooner would have saved me a lot of money!!!

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  27. I have a bright red microfiber couch that I absolutely love but yes, after kids, it was COVERED in stains. I used the alcohol in a spray bottle method here to clean the couch and even though some of the stains were far too set-in, overall it does look a lot brighter and I got a TON of dirt off. It even feels fluffier!

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  28. Our couch is the exact same, I usually just unzip the covers & throw them in the wash, but can't do that for the arm & the back part of the couch, gonna try this!

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  29. We LOVE our couch, love seat and recliner micro fiber furniture! When we were shopping for new furniture we knew it had to be durable enough for our two sons, plus their friends, two dogs, a cat, and the two of us. We've had it for over ten years and it's survived beautifully. However, there are a few spots from where our bearded dog lays his head after getting a drink. Shew! Can't wait to try this!

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  30. I don't have kids, just a husband that makes messes like kids. Literally just got done doing this to my loveseat. Worked like a charm. Thanks so much.

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  31. I am so EXCITED to try this! our chouch looks the same way most days i use hot water and soup all the time but it dosnt help with the water or spit marks!

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  32. I have an infant at home and find myself always using his baby wipes to clean our couch and it works like a charm!!

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    1. I totally do the baby wipes thing on our microfiber.Works great for small spills, but definitely going to try this too!

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    2. I totally do the baby wipes thing on our microfiber.Works great for small spills, but definitely going to try this too!

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    3. I totally do the baby wipes thing on our microfiber.Works great for small spills, but definitely going to try this too!

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  33. I have a chocolate brown microfiber couch. When it gets grungy, I take the covers off of the cushions and throw them in the washer and dry them in the dryer. They come out looking brand new. They are a little snug putting them back on but they give a little.

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    1. Washing doesn't hurt the fabric at all?

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    2. I have washed mine several times and it works great! Do not put any detergent in the washer, just straight up water and then while they are still wet put the covers back on the cushion and them them air dry! I have heard it is not good to put them in the dryer plus it will shrink.

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    3. I've always washed my microfiber covers for my couch. In fact, they are hanging to dry right now as we speak. Washing makes the couch look like new and is far less time consuming than this method. However, I do believe I will try this on the arms of the couch.

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    4. I have had my microfiber couch for 4 years with 2 babies and a dog. I just unzip, wash with detergent, and even throw in the dryer. They come out like new every time. The color doesn't even fade because the back cushions still match!!

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    5. We wash and dry ours too! And we steam clean everything else! But it stays wet forever and we can't sit anywhere but the floor. I'm going to try this on the arms and back, my 2 yr old son decided to decorate our couch with a black sharpie marker so in def going to see if the alcohol will work on getting it out!

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  34. You should really link to the original source of where you got this idea :) I don't know for sure, but I'm guessing that it is http://chrisandrobinsnest.blogspot.com/2010/09/how-to-clean-microfiber-furniture.html

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  35. Wow that looks great. I think we have the same couch. Trust me, mine is way more disgusting than your was. One of my dogs likes to lick the cushions. Ewwww

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  36. I have the same color microfiber, it gets SO gross! I have to scrub scrub scrub with water and a towel to get them remotely clean. Thanks for sharing!!!

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  37. I use a steam cleaner.

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    1. Me too! It gets out everything but I am always afraid it might damage the material. I used vibegar as well when my son got sick on our couch.

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    2. me too, ours looked terrible after my daughter spilled everything she could on it. I figured why not try it couldnt look worse. I started in a inconspicuous spot on the side, saw no problems when it dried so I started with the worst cushion and then when that dried looking new, I did the entire couch. I would use this method for the spot fix but the entire couch a steam cleaner works great. With the hand held attachment of course.

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  38. I have a huge red microfiber sectional and a now 5 year old. I finally got fed up with the stains and tried removing the a cover from a throw pillow and washing in the laundry---- and it works like a dream. Every single bit of my couch can be zipped off and washed except the actual frame itself! I use a gentle cycle on cold and I tumble low to dry. Works like a charm for me. In fact, I plan to do it again this week-- I have probably done it once every 6 months for about 3 years now.

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    1. Any problem with shrinking?

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    2. I have done it several times without any shrinking and just scrub the frame

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    3. I have done it several times without any shrinking and just scrub the frame

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    4. With detergent or not? I have seen mixed reviews on that...

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  39. Thanks for sharing this. Just found it on pinterest... my couch really needs it... !!!

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  40. I have two microfiber couches that we first got when we moved in. They had lived at our relatives house for 5 years plus and now with us for almost 2 more years. Needless to say the stains are EVERYWHERE and I have never been able to clean them...I CANT wait to try this!! Thank you!

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  41. I just had to try this, my microfiber sectional was an absolute mess! We were strongly considering buying a new one soon, but not anymore it almost looks new again! Thank you!! I wish I could post a before and after picture, it was amazing!

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  42. Omg I have to hear my husband complain about our couches all the time. Lol this will be his fathers day gift thank you

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  43. I tried this on our recliner and it worked GREAT! My couch cushions take a daily hit from the kids and when I was felling brave I put the cushion covers in the washer....regular cycle with regular detergent and they came out looking like new. This could save you some elbow grease if your covers are removable.

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  44. Wow, do you think I could use this on a red couch?

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  45. Thanks so much I thought it was only us lol we have one in the storage because it looks so dirty and now we have a different couch but I will for sure try this maybe we can sell it or use after this Thanks so much there is hope for my couch

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  46. I also tried this and the alcohol left a mark on my couch, from where I stopped spraying. So it looks just as bad as the water marks. I too was overtaken by the microfiber that it wouldnt stain, yea right. Any tips would be great, b/c I would love to get rid of the water marks and alcohol marks.

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    1. I actually thought I still saw the waterline in original post. Wonder what you could do to prevent that?

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    2. Try just water and a blow dryer I just posted my solution underneath hope it works

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    3. If you can remove the covers throw them in the wash on the gentle cycle. I then let them air dry, then put them in the dryer for a short time to fluff them backup. I have the same couch the poster does and it looks great.

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    4. I have the same color microfiber couch and three little Maltese which slobber on it all I do is use resolve upholstery cleaner wet cloth and it still looks be had it for five years

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  47. I have the same exact couch in the same exact color! My husband also convinced me to buy the couch when we got married saying that it'll be fine for when we have kids (it is comfy.. I'll give him that). Haha! It's a MESS right now between 2 kids, 4 moves in the last 3 years and me (i spill a lot). haha! I will have to try this soon because this is cheaper than any other thing I have tried! Thanks!

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  48. I have the exact same couch and love seat, I also have 4 dogs and a spot in my backyard where grass does not grow! Guess where the dogs favorite place to play and lie down is? The arm rests of the couches are disgusting! I have tried professional cleaners and all they ever did was spread out the stain and leave the fabric stiff. I saw your tip on pinterest, tried it and am completely amazed!! They look almost new again. Thank you!!

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  49. I love that so many of us are THIS excited about these tips and your results. I plan to attack my furniture with this method tomorrow. Thank you for sharing!

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  50. I can't wait to try this - because I too have that light tan microfiber couch and it's nasty. None of my covers come off, so I'm definitely trying this. We have lots of company coming in a couple of weeks, so need to do this beforehand.

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  51. I tried smtg a but different and worked miracles have same color sofas --all I did was wet heavily the problem area with water and washcloth took out stuffing from arm rests and back rest then I passed my blow dryer thru the inside of them till the water was gone. This worked miracle plus I refluffed my sofa and pol ask if we got new ones because we no longer have any stains and fluffed up sofa. I had formula stains, wine stains and plain water stains. I remember my mom doing this when I was young and tried it when I was getting ready to buy new ones but I love my sofa now and no need to spend on furniture so shopping for me it is.. Good luck

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  52. This is amazing!! Going to try it when I get home!!

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  53. OMG! I am so going to try this. I have three kids and my couch looks exactly like this. We even tried to have it professionally cleaned and they looked and it and said it wont work. I hope it works just as well for me! Thanks!

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  54. I tired this on our microfiber ottoman first because it's so terrible after being thru 2 kids, a dog and 2 cats. It didn't even make a dent. I tired it on some lighter soiled spots on the couch and nada. Why?

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  55. I also have a tan micro fiber couch and it needs a good cleaning with a two and three year old running around it has sippy cups spill stains and food stains on it. So I'm gonna try this. Thanks!

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  56. I have the same color microfiber couch too. I will
    Have to try his out, wish me luck to remove red wine and ground in silly putty! The kids have driven me to drink and then knocked it out of my hand!

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  57. I have the same couch!!! trying this

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  58. take the C off couch & you have Ouch..thats what my microfiber looks like, cannot wait to try this! awesome!

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  59. I just want to share that baby wipes will do the same thing. Even red koolaid has come off of carpet, microfiber couch, you name it. Baby wipes are still bought in this home even though are child is 9. They clean up EVERYTHING.

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    1. Do you just rub the stain or do you have to rub the whole cushion to not get a watermark?

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    2. If u clean your spot good it will blend back in but if you have a big spot it is better to do the whole cushion

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  60. My concern is the long term effect of alcohol on the fibres. Possibly it would dry them out and eventually break it down? Just a thought. My micro fibre couch from EQ3 came with a cleaning package...and for $150 extra a life time warranty. If I can't fix it, they try, if they can't, they replace the couch. My daughter got nail polish on ours the 2nd day it was home, they sent someone and got it out for me. NO, I don't work for EQ3, just extremely happy to see such great customer service.
    I will still give this a try if and when I need to. GREAT SITE!

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  61. I use a steam cleaner and it works great... and the roughness goes away after a day or 2 and it feels soft and new, no brushing required ;)

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    1. I do that too but hate that I have to wash the whole cushion, or whole back of the couch etc...so I don't get watermarks. Any other tips?

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  62. so glad I stumbled upon this! we just got a used micro fiber couch and I was planning on getting a steam cleaner for it! I'm gonna try this on my next day off. I can't wait!

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  63. So trying this! I use Spot Shot and it works wonderfully but it really gets my asthma going in high gear. Maybe this will save me from that...

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  64. i tried this today on my couch...i wouldn't say it looks like new, but it is a HUGE improvement. i was ready to call a professional cleaner, and figured it might cost over $100 to have it cleaned, so i am happy! i agree w/the anonymous poster who wondered if the long term effects of the alcohol could be damaging-but hope that by the time that happens (IF it happens)i will have gotten my $$$ worth out of the sofa. thanks for the great idea.

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  65. wow i will have to try this how cool my couch is the same color

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  66. A wet (not saturated) microfiber cloth works great for cleaning these types of furniture. Any extra moisture (water spots) can easily be erased with cornstarch. After cleaning, simply sprinkle cornstarch on and rub it in, then let it set for a day or two, and then vacuum. Voila ... moisture and odors completely gone! Works great for doggie (oopsy) odors too.

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  67. I tried this and it just didn't work....

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  68. I am SO excited to try this. My couch has now been through two newborns (you can imagine... spitup, pee, milk, slobbery stuffed animals... its disgusting). Now I don't have to be embarrassed when friends come over!!!

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  69. I have that same couch! and mine looks your before pic! I will be doing this to mine this week! :)

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  70. We did this and the smell of the alcohol was terrible and took forever to air out! The thing with microfiber is that water stains it because it dries too slowly, where the alcohol evaporates quickly. If you don't saturate the entire area though, you will see the line where you stopped. Also, if your spray bottle leaks droplets those will be very visible.

    We've have just as much luck(without the smell) by using just a pet friendly cleaning spray and our small Bissell cleaner, as long as you saturate the entire area they work the same but just take longer to dry....

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  71. Just curious if this would void the Scotch Guard warranty I have on my couch...?

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  72. My daughter just texted me and told me her daughter got grease stains on her light beige microfiber couch. I remembered pinning this link just last week JUST IN CASE something happened to HER sofa!! Her sofa is only 2 weeks old!! So glad I did!! She did get it clean with Windex, but is going to buy a couple more cute throws for the couch for her daughter to sit on!!

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  73. This is awesome! Especially for small spots. What we did though for cleaning an entire couch was pressure washed it outside! I know, I cringed at the idea because of water leaving marks. However! Maybe it's the pressure or the large space being covered at once, not sure, but it worked like a charm! Just let it sit in our hot garage to dry and it looked brand new. Didn't take long either. Dry the next day.

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    1. You just used a pressure washer and no soap? Would that create mold?

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  74. I just tried this on my 2 week old couch. My daughter got yogurt on it eating infront of it ugh. I just wet a rag with alchol and scrubbed since I didn' thave a light colored sponge or spray bottle. I am amazed at the amount of dirt that came off with the yogurt, how did it get that dirty in 2 weeks?

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  75. I recovered my dark green dining room chairs in white microfiber 6 years ago because I was told it was very durable and stain resistant. I had a one year old at the time, and let me tell you...NOT STAIN RESISTANT! What was I thinking?! After 6 years and multiple attempts at cleaning, they looked disgusting! I entertain friends a lot and I was getting so embarrassed about my chairs. I told my hubby I needed to recover them and all he did was complain about $$$ (TYPICAL!) I came across this article a few weeks ago and I cleaned my chairs this weekend. HOLY MOLY! They look new again! My husband is so happy I saved him $250 and I am happy that I don't have to beg him to have it done or sneak around his back to recover those chairs! Thank you so much for sharing your insight!

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  76. I have a micro fiber couch and I use a product from the dollar store called "Awesome" spray. It works on so many different things. It's truly amazing! It comes as a concentrate. A little goes a long way. It has a list of things on te bottle that it will remove. And it's very gentle. Good for pet stains.
    I have a question though. Does anyone know the best way to remove dog hair from a micro fiber couch? It sticks to it like glue!! I have tried the scotch's pet hair remover pads and those work the best but was wanting another opinion.

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    1. The best thing I've found for removing pet hair from microfiber is to put on a pair of Playtex rubber gloves and rub over the surface. The hair comes right up!

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  77. I have a dark brown micro fiber sofa and I removed the covers from all the cushions and put it in the washer and dryer. My sofa is so clean now!! I used my regular detergent and set it for gentle cycle. I put it in the dryer under low heat. The sofa looks and feels geat! Thank you for letting me know it's ok to put it in the washer!

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  78. MAGIC!! I was using carpet cleaner but it made it kinda crunchy and not much else. This is great! I have a dark couch and I used a white rag instead of a sponge -- just rubbed it hard and slow until the dirt and the moisture was all rubbed out! Even got out weeks old Kool-Aid and most of a red sharpie paint marker!

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  79. I use rubbing alcohol on my microfiber couch too. It gets out chocolate, pen, markers, even crayons!!!

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  80. I think I have the exact couch and I've tried this and it totally works!! But even better we discovered that the covers actually come off the seat cushions so we threw them in the wash and even better! :)

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  81. I am pretty sure we have the same couch and ours is starting to look like that! Thanks so much!

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  82. I have a brown microfiber couch and have had a cream colored one in the past. I unzip my cushions, and throw them in the washing machine, then let them air dry. Works like a charm!! I'm going to try this on the arms.

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  83. Thank you for posting this... I have been taking the cushions off and washing them by machine but the seams are getting weak from the washing SO I couldn't be happier to try this. The kids leave little marks here and there so this is perfect :) Thanks again!

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  84. This might be a stupid question, but do you use a dry sponge? or a wet sponge?

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  85. Wonder if this will work on the seats of my 2011 Honda Pilot that stains with rain drops and bottled water that Honda swears they know NOTHING about??!! will try it there after I try on the couch!

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  86. Where can I find a white sponge? I usually only see colored ones.

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  87. I don't go this route when cleaning my sofa (the same color as yours). I just use watered down carpet cleaning solution, hot water, and a white wash cloth. Works everytime. It doesn't leave any stains behind. Just an FYI. It leaves the couch a little stiff too but, if you rub your hand over it after it dries it's soft again. NO scrub brush needed.

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  88. Thank you so SO much. I have the same color Microfiber sectional that is beautiful, then we had babies with sippy cups, bottles, and popsicles also my couches look horrible so I am going to try this on my next day off!!! Thank you :)

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  89. I have this same color microfiber couch. I have used the little green machine on it (and love seat and chair). After reading the comments I threw the covers in the washing machine and the couch looks better than ever.

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  90. Thanks for sharing! I too have the same exact color of microfiber couch. We have a huge ottoman and the dogs lay on it. Even though I keep it covered with a blanket, their licking habits and slobber soak right through and leave horrible wet stains. I bought a small bissel spot remover. I fill the tank with a mixture of hot water and oxy clean. Spray, scrub, and suck it up. It is amazing how much dirt pulls up. Ewwww. But it also works wonders!

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  91. I tried this a while back, after seeing it on Pinterest (another blog) and the smell of alcohol was unbearable. I don't have a sensitive nose either! Even my husband commented on how terrible it was! It also didn't work for us. I suffered through the smell and when it finally dried, the stain (sippy spill) was still there. I personally just take the covers off the cushions and throw them in the washer on delicate or handwash with a mild detergent, then hang to dry. they dry in just a couple of hours and look brand new. much much easier, and smells a million times better!

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  92. I gave this a try on my couch. I have a darker brown than shown in the picture. The smell of alcohol WAS overwhelming. It also didn't seem to remove the stains. I think I will give the washing machine suggestions a try next time...

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  93. Just brilliant! I have exactly the same lounge and it was very marked too. Thank you so much for sharing this great tip.

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  94. My couch is a medium brown (the store calls it "Fawn") I have 3 dogs who love licking & chewing their toys, paws, & treats on the couch so there are LOTS of spots. I sprayed the alcohol on several of the heavier spots & fpund that it really does lighten them up! I may go back over them later with another round. Instead of buying the bristle brush, I found that using the bristle attachment on my vacuum works just as well, and it dries a little better. Thanks for posting this tip!

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  95. I have a microfiber couch and loveseat. I have taken the cushion covers off and thrown them in the washer on gentle cycle and let them hang dry and they look like new.

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  96. Do you wet the sponge or use it dry??

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    1. I used a wet sponge and rinsed it out when needed. It worked really well.

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  97. Did this today and it worked great! My sectional did not have removable covers to throw in the wash so this was my only option. The smell is really overwhelming but doesn't last long. I think the main thing is to FULLY saturate the areas your cleaning like directed or you won't get the old spots out. I was scared to try it, paid 3500.00 for the couch, but it looked like garbage after three years of kids eating on it. So glad I did it!

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  98. Excited to try this! Looking at the pictures I love your couch pillows! Did you buy them or make them?

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  99. I just did this tonight on my scuzzy wrap around couch and it looks new now! After four years of kids spilling on it and other variables, it was looking pretty bad to say the least! Thank you for sharing your wealth of knowledge :)

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  100. I just did this tonight on my scuzzy wrap around couch and it looks new now! After four years of kids spilling on it and other variables, it was looking pretty bad to say the least! Thank you for sharing your wealth of knowledge :)

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  101. We bought the exact same set after having the exact same conversation about how great the set would be with kids around. I can't wait to try this!

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  102. It didn't work so well or me. I miss my red couches where I could jut wash the covers and air dry. It was beautiful. This time I called Stanley Steamer. They told me it might not work, but I did it anyway and they did an AMAZING job. not one watermark, stain, nothing. They got out EVERYTHING. I wouldn't let anyone sit on my couch after they came!!!!! They were perfect.

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  103. So glad I found this!! Our micro fiber couches are three months old and our 3yo recently decided to draw on them with blue and black Sharpies. It is actually very easy to clean, hubby got some out with just water. We have guests coming for the weekend and I am SOOOOO trying this!!

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  104. How much alcohol is needed?

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  105. So great to see that others were given the "great with kids" sales pitch. My couch is disgusting!!! I tried to use the warranty and again - shut down. I am so very excited to give this cleaning remedy a try. Thank you so very much for posting - I was waiting for the couch to break before getting a new one but now - hopefully - won't have to. I'm sure that with all the dir and grime that I will have to apply several times! THANKS!

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  106. Your technique is interesting, rubbing alcohol will work for some stains but your method is not recommended by furniture manufactures and as a furniture builder and retailer, I would not warranty a fabric/foam cleaned with your method. Microfiber is a 100% polyethylene fabric (this means it is made from oil byproducts). It is extremely stain resistant (this does not mean that it will not get dirty, only that the dirt or "stain is not in the fiber, but rather on it.) The recommended method is to use an enzymatic cleaner. there are many types available, I prefer foam based as in: PDP468220 - ENZYME FOAM CARPET CLEANER which is also used for fabrics. It is a detailing product. You should never "saturate" or heavily scrub the fabric/foams, just lightly spray on, agitate lightly with the soft side of a clean scotch bright sponge, allow the enzyme to work, and when dry use the rough side of the scotch bright sponge to lightly ruff the fibers back up. Microfiber is actually one of the easiest fabric to clean if done properly.

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    1. My family owns a furniture store also and we would NEVER recommend saturating a sofa of any kind, especially microfiber. The recommended cleaning method is to use a DAMP (not wet) cloth and the SUDS from dish soap. Put some Dawn dish soap in a blender with water and blend it up. Use just the bubbles on top to clean the fabric.

      I agree with you, David, that many people are voiding their warranties by using the methods mentioned in this post.

      We have had clients get even the toughest stains out with this method- blood even. My dogs rubbed their greasy flea medication all over the front of my own sofa and I cleaned it with the method I suggested.

      Microfiber is durable and stain resistant when taken care of properly!

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  107. We have 7 grandkids, and my recliner is the big hit with all 7 of them. Of course, papaw's chair and the couch in the living room are a darker color, and don't tend to show as many stains, so even more of a reason to like nana's chair more!!I had given up on it. To clean it, I would sit there with a soapy water and sponge, and because of the color......yep, had to wipe the whole thing as to not get that water mark, and most of the stains.......well, as you probably know, would still be there. I tried this, and was amazed. But, the stains were so bad in spots, that I now have clean spots in my chair. That's ok, now I know how to clean it, by the end of the weekend, I will have a new chair!!! Thanks!!

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  108. Thank you so much! You saved our single income family the cost of a new sofa!
    This worked so well after just one try, we plan to give it another shot tonight on the really tough stains! Where have you been all my life?

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  109. Going to try this out as we have 9 grandchildren and our couch and love-seat look awful even after shampooing them! Thanks for the tip!

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  110. I have a micro fiber couch, my 14.5 year old dog peed on a cushion. I figured the couch is ruined so I am going to wash the cover in the washer what difference would it make. I hung it to dry and it is just like new. Good to know!

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  111. We have a very similar couch in the same color. I use my steam cleaner to clean the back and arms and I take the seat cushions off and throw them in the washing machine and then the dryer on low heat. Super easy and no scrubbing required! We've had our couches for 8 years now and they look brand new. :)

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  112. I have taken the covers off my sectional sofa and thrown them in the washer and they come out looking great but then we busted one of the zippers (5 foot long industrial zipper) so I had to sew the cushion shut, and the washer is no longer an option. I have also hand scrubbed my sofa w/ warm soapy water and that works well, but like you mentioned it take a long time to dry and can leave rings. Then I learned to dry it w/ a hair drier and use a white dry towel to swirl the fabric to avoid the dry stiffness. That works great. Thanks for the tip about the alcohol I think I will try that next and blow dry the cushions like I have done in the past for quicker drying.

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  113. Great idea!!!! I uses this method on my couch tonight. I used a white washcloth instead of a sponge. By the time I was finished, the white was black. It took ink marks right. I will be telling everyone about this cheap, easy method of cleaning!!!!

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  114. I have what appears to be the same couch - I take the cushion covers off and wash them in the machine but the backs and ottoman dont have that option so they are more "worn". I will definitely try this on the ottoman (where the dog has claimed as her bed...) Thank you

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  115. I used this same method to remove sharpie marker from my microfiber couch. Instead of a sponge, I found that the Mr. Clean magic eraser worked better, and the marker came completely out.

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  116. I have two micro fiber couches, two kids and two dogs and one sloppy husband. So yes, my couches have been put through hell. Luckily, my couch cushion covers unzip and come off. I found out from a friend that they ARE washable. Just to be safe, I put them in a gentle cycle, cold water and a little bit of soap. Then I threw them into the dryer and they looked good as new and VERY SOFT! The arms of che couches are another story and I've used an attachment piece to a carpet shampooer and scrubbed the hell out of them and they looked new too. So...if your cushions unzip and come off. Just throw them into the wash. :)

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  117. We totally just tried this on our tan microfiber couch and it is a miracle!! Our couch looks brand new!! Your before pictures looked alot like our couch did and now...I feel like we just had a new couch delivered!! Thanks so much for posting this!!! :)

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  118. Just so you know.... baby powder will get grease out. Just let it sit for an hour. Then vaccumme. Its amazing.

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  119. My couch is a deep red color will this fade the color? My couch was very expensive and I don't have the money to replace it but it seriously needs sleaning with 4 kids on it all the time ?

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    1. Alcohol has no bleaching agents in it what so ever so no it will not fade the colour at all. I just cleaned a brown chair and had no discolouration what so ever.

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  120. No offense, but it looks like there are still stains on the couch. I have the exact couch and here is what I do: unzip the seat cushions, wash in warm water w/ tide and scoop of oxyclean (air dry). For the rest, use a bucket of hot water w/ a scoop of oxyclean and a very small amount of detergent, use white rags to scrub the couch. This made my 7 year old couches look like new. And I have a 6 year old and two large dogs who lay on them!

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  121. All I do is unzip the seat cushions, and wash them in the washer and air dry them as well as the anonymous commenter on July 29th. Makes them look brand new.

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  122. My stepfather has a microfiber chair and the thing is nasty. So while they were away on vacation I had my sister help me clean the chair, and the disgusting black arms look amazing! My only issue with this method was a few strange dark marks were left in places on the chair that didn't have any visible stains before hand which really bummed me out, but I understand what I did wrong, I was just going off briefly reading the instructions and was brushing it while wet so that caused it.
    Any ways the black goo, and hot chocolate spill on the seat are gone, now to see if they notice the difference.

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  123. I was skeptical but It works GREAT!! My furniture looks new again..not sure for how long w/2 small kids...lol

    Thank You!!

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  124. Thanks for trying and sharing! I have the exact one and I bought for the same reasons. Now with kids it looks as yours, before cleaning. To resolve the problem I bought sleepcovers, but the material is like a magnet and it looks even worst. I will definitely do this. Thanks!

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  125. What about using Windex, the salesperson where I bought the couch said to use Windex.

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  126. Actually dish soap and water works too

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    1. I did not find it worked very well on old stains, but probably on newer stains

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  127. I have an orange micro fiber ottoman and our male poodles have lifted their legs on it. I used the attachment on our steam cleaner and Resolve to clean it. I'll try the alcohol next time.

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  128. Thank you so much for this tip it saved my couches from having to be replaced or having to get slip covers

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  129. Hey I didn't get to read all the individual comments but just to cut cleaning time in half or less... I have the same sofa. I take the cushions off ( I know the top won't come off) and unzip the covers. Throw them in the wash with regular detergent and hang to dry in your house. I've even tossed mine in the dryer. I've washed them over twenty times and they still hold up well. As a plus I put extra fabric softener on them and voila! My home smells like Yankee candle lol.

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  130. Oh my gosh thats my couch well mine is dk brown but same as yours, ok im going to try this and let you know how it works :D

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  131. AMEN Jessica Fox...
    http://iamonewearethree.wordpress.com/2012/08/10/diy-how-to-clean-a-microfiber-couch/

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  132. I have washed the cushion covers in the washing machine and came they came out good as new. Just sharing.

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  133. I have the same color couch but mine is a sectional from a friend who stored it in their garage, and i have 4 kids and 3 dogs :-/ so you can imagine what it looked like lol. I just cleaned it today (the entire thing) and it took me 2 1/2 hours to completely spray and scrub, and my entire house smelled like alcohol lol, but it looks brand new!!!! Thank you so much for sharing i had no idea of how i was going to clean it lol. I thought i was going to have to hire someone to come in and steam clean it for me. Now i can clean it and keep it clean! Thank you again!

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  134. I just tried this on a few blood spots, after my daughter wiped her bloody nose on the couch. It really works!!! Time to stock up on isopropyl alcohol!

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  135. Thank you! I'm off to try this out! :) I have wanted to get ride of our chair, but it's not that old and still a great chair...just had too much love from the kiddos. So appreciate this advice!

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  136. If you're going to give the whole couch a scrub, I use my carpet spot scrubber, the Bissell Green Machine or something like that. I just use the pet carpet cleaning solution, spray it, scrub it and suck up the moisture with the wand. It takes a couple of hours to dry then, you can fluff with brush like here. Alcohol is good for spots, but when the whole thing needs a scrubbing...bring out the machine! :-)

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  137. Mine did not come clean. What did do wrong?

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  138. Hi! This is a great idea for spot cleaning...BUT did ya'll know that you can take all the covers off and just throw them in the washer and hang dry them! No shrinkage and wonderful fresh laundry smell!:)

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    1. I do this as well with my cushion covers and I think it works a lot better than the rubbing alcohol. Sometimes I would still get water marks using alcohol but they are like new when I put them in the washing machine!

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  139. I have a microfiber couch and love it. But unfortunately, it needs to be replaced (structural issues). I absolutely LOVE your couch. Where did you find your's?

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  140. I use dish soap on greasy stains I.e. your French fry stain :)

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  141. Had a friend send this to me. I have been going crazy. I have 3 male dogs (we know what this is all about). I am definitely going to try this. Thanx for the info

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  142. I am so glad I ran upon this on Pinterest. I have a dark micro couch (and two dogs who like to call it home) who have about ruined one couch cushion so I'm trying this ASAP :)

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  143. Ok, so I need a jumbo bottle of rubbing alcohol a costo size bunch of sponges and I am set!!! I have a huge corner L shaped tan microfiber couch that has needed this for a few years now! Thank you!!! guess I should also try when its not 100+ outside so I can ventilate the house though... gotta remember this thank you!!

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  144. Thank goodness I found this on Pinterest! I am letting it dry as we speak... ALready looks better and I haven't even scrubbed it yet! :) Thank you!

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  145. A. I think we have the same couch B. I think the same sippy cup attacked me too. This is FAB-U-LOUS!!! So thankful I can finally combat dogs, kids, and my man child husband.

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  146. My daughter was told to use distilled water. You won't get water marks.

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  147. Not only do I have this same problem, but I have the exact same couch as you. And with a 4 and 5 year old, I could take the identical before pictures. Going to get rubbing alcohol tomorrow and I WILL be doing this, you know, so I can have identical after pictures as well!

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  148. Don't waist your time didn't work so disappointed .. Wanted it to but I guess I'll do what I usually do

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  149. This worked like a charm! I bought my microfiber couch and loveseat before I had a husband and 2 dogs! After 5 years, they (the couch and loveseat) looked awful. I just finished one cushion and it looks new again!!

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  150. Don't waist your time didn't work so disappointed .. Wanted it to but I guess I'll do what I usually do

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  151. This worked SO well! I was days away from just buying a new couch, and very skeptical about this. Very happy with the results.

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  152. Thank you for your post! Tried resolve to get blood out. There is a faint mark. Once it dries, I'll try this on the rest.

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  153. Jackie (sweethoneyturtle@yahoo.com)August 22, 2012 at 10:37 AM

    Sorry for asking such a silly question but...where do you find a white (or light brown) sponge? All I've seen is pink, green, blue yellow etc. I have a microfiber couch that a roommate left me with and it has all kinds of stains on it. I want to clean it but cannot find a white sponge! The couch is the same color as yours :-) Thanks!

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  154. I have the same couch. We have a very busy toddler in our house so my couch looks like that very often. I have found that you can take the couch cushion covers off and wash them in the washing machine. I use the delicate cycle and use regular detergent and oxiclean. Sometimes I use Shout if the stains are really bad. I hang them out to dry and then put them back on the cushions and the couch looks brand new without the water rings or stains. Just make sure that if you have the oversized chair that comes with this set to mark that cover because it is not them same size as the couch cushions.

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  155. Our furniture well we had an epic fail with our coal burner and had coal dust in our entire house and the "professional" cleaners scrubbed our furniture it didn't leave any water markes but an awful Oder that I have been trying everything to get that smell out!
    I am deffently gonna try this

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  156. I've always used dawn dish soap and hot water. Worked like a charm on my couch (same fabric). It even got out pen and permanent marker.

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  157. Thank you so much! I just got a microfiber couch and chair set at goodwill and this is really working to get it looking new! I really love that it's not full of nasty industrial toxins.

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I really appreciate all of your thoughts and comments! They bring a smile to my face!