Are you considering microfiber upholstery fabric for your couch? If yes, you’re on the right track! This material is a cheaper and more durable alternative to suede leather that comes in different designs.
Read on to learn more about microfiber upholstery fabric and its benefits! This guide will help you decide whether the fabric fits your needs and lifestyle.
What Is Microfiber Upholstery Fabric?
Microfiber is a soft, stain-resistant fabric from synthetic materials like polyester and polyamide. Polyester is a plastic of sorts that has the look and feel of a towel. And polyamide is just nylon that adds absorption and density to the fabric.
Manufacturers cut them into fine strands to create a weave that dries quickly. The microfiber fibers are more refined than silk, and they are woven tighter to become hypoallergenic and stain-resistant.
The microfiber upholstery fabric hinders allergens and dust from accumulating on it. It also resists stains because its tightness doesn’t absorb any spilled water. You’ll see this kind of material in furniture upholstery like couches and cushions quite often.
It’s soft and long-lasting, making it a practical choice for furniture, apparel, and even sports gear. And the best thing about microfiber is its easy maintenance. Clean it with a vacuum, dishwashing liquid, and other basic cleaning supplies you probably already have.
Microfiber Upholstery Fabric vs. Microsuede
Microfiber upholstery fabric weaves are soft and smooth. But microsuede, a kind of microfiber, has a texture that resembles suede. The artificial polyester fabric has millions of fine microfibers to imitate suede leather without issues with stain and wear.
Choose microsuede over suede leather if you’re on a budget. It’s also an excellent choice because of its easy-care advantages.
Why Indulge in Microfiber Upholstery Fabric?
Here are five benefits of microfiber upholstery fabric that you shouldn’t miss out on.
1. Stain Resistance
The main reason microfiber’s popular in upholstery is that it can resist staining better than other fabrics. In general, synthetic materials are more stain-resistant than natural fibers.
Blame it on the microfiber upholstery fabric’s very tight weave! You’ll only be able to see the fibers under a microscope because they are half a silk strand’s diameter. If you still can’t imagine it, observe a strand of your hair and think of it as ten strands of microfiber.
The non-porous quality of microfiber also makes it stain-resistant. It absorbs less liquid than linen and cotton, perfect for anyone with kids and pets at home. If you enjoy eating or drinking on your couch, this upholstery material is for you.
Others also use microfiber for their dining seats. It can handle the toughest stains, including thick pasta sauce! You can quickly wipe off any spills on the surface of your couch since it doesn’t suck the stain.
2. Color Range
Microfiber upholstery fabric can hold its color well. That’s why it’s one of the upholstery fabrics with the broadest range of color options.
You’ll find multiple shades of brown, from coffee brown to natural-looking beige. There are also unique and vibrant colors like plum, tangerine, red, sage green, and more. If you’re into prints, some fabric stores also offer them.
Aside from the color range, there are also several microfiber sofa styles. Consider an L-shaped sectional, a reclining sofa, or a lovers’ lounge. The fiber itself has a modern appearance and texture. But you’ll also find traditional sofas made of microfiber.
Aside from microfiber’s ability to hold color well, it also stays there for a long time. It doesn’t fade right away when you place them under direct sunlight or extreme heat. Leather and other materials do not have this quality.
3. Fade-Resistant
Most natural fabrics quickly fade, especially if they are outdoors. The most heavy-duty materials like leather are not an exception. But microfiber is.
You don’t have to stress about damage from the sun even if you place your microfiber upholstery fabric sofa near a window. It will retain its color saturation for years because it is color-fast. Whether you’re planning to get deep red, army green, or baby pink for your sofa, microfiber is your best choice.
4. Affordable
One of the microfiber upholstery fabric’s best features is its affordable price. It’s relatively inexpensive, considering that the fabric is fade-resistant, water-repellant, and stylish.
Some fabrics have the same price range but won’t last for decades. Microfiber will. You’ll get more than your money’s worth because it will take years before you need to reupholster.
But not all microfibers are made the same. Very cheap microfiber sofas won’t last longer than a decade. Go for couches in the middle price range. They are more cost-effective because of their durability and look.
5. Easy Cleaning and Maintenance
Microfiber upholstery fabric furniture is a lifesaver if you have kids and pets or if you’re clumsy. Spilled food and drinks are just a wipe away.
Your red wine won’t seep into the fabric while you’re running to get a damp cloth. It won’t also leave a mark. If you see a mild stain, gentle soap and water are enough to remove it.
Microfiber can grip dust, hair, and dirt, but not as bad as tweed. That’s why microfiber is famous as a cleaning cloth for gadgets and other devices. Regular maintenance can avoid this buildup.
Use a vacuum cleaner with a soft bristle brush attachment for dust, dirt, or pet hair. Do this weekly to remove the dirt and dust on the surface. If your pets have access to the upholstery, I recommend vacuuming twice a week.
After vacuuming, you may use a mild cleaning solution of liquid dishwashing soap and lukewarm water. Create soap suds and scrub the fabric. Or spray rubbing alcohol on the microfiber. Make sure to wipe the area with water and allow it to air-dry after.
Final Words
Microfiber upholstery fabric is one of the most affordable and durable choices for your furniture. Aside from having a variety of colors and styles, it’s also a highly-refined material that resists fading and staining.
Has this article convinced you to try microfiber upholstery? Let us know your thoughts and questions in the comments! Make your furniture last longer by choosing high-quality microfiber and regularly maintaining it. And if you’d like to check out more options, we have an excellent selection of suede and microsuede.