A faux leather couch or sofa looks beautiful and expensive, but like any other piece of furniture, it can get dirty. Dust, grease, and stains from food and liquids can significantly affect the appearance of faux leather furniture, so it is essential to know how to safely and properly clean such stains.
What is Faux Leather?
Faux leather, also known as vinyl leather, is a high-quality polymer material that imitates genuine leather. Despite its durability and ease of use, the surface of faux leather is susceptible to damage from:
- Direct sunlight
- Household dirt and stains
- High temperatures
If a couch is made of faux leather in light tones, there is a possibility of it being stained by bedding, clothing, or jeans. The effective furniture cleaning recommendations provided in this article will help solve such issues.
What are the types of faux leather?
Before starting the cleaning process, it is essential to determine the specific type of furniture faux leather you are dealing with. Different types require different cleaning methods and some cleaning solutions may not be suitable. Here are the common types:
- Vinyl leather: It can be cleaned using products that contain ammonia but should not be cleaned with solvents.
- Apatex: It can be cleaned with a soapy solution or products that are free from solvents and chlorine.
- Eco-leather: It can be cleaned effectively using a water-alcohol solution consisting of 40% alcohol or even a nail polish remover. However, after the cleaning process, the surface should be thoroughly dried.
The Best Cleaning Products for Faux Leather Couch
The quality of couch faux leather can vary based on factors such as the material used and the thickness of the polyurethane layer. It’s important to note that the same cleaning product can have different effects on different furniture faux leather upholstery. While a specific cleaner may be harmless for one couch, it can cause irreversible damage to another. Therefore, it is recommended to test any cleaning product, except perhaps a melamine sponge and a damp cloth, on an inconspicuous area of the furniture before using it extensively.
It is crucial to emphasize that when using specialized products for cleaning furniture, it is essential to carefully read and fully understand the instructions for use and strictly follow them! Any deviation from the instructions can have irreversible consequences for the faux leather couch upholstery.
Top solutions:
- Leather Honey – Best Leather Conditioner Since 1968
- CAR GUYS – Super Cleaner
- Leather Honey – The Best Couch Leather Cleaner
- Weiman – Furniture Leather Cleaner and Conditioner (2 Pack)
- Chemical Guys – Leather Cleaner and Leather Conditioner Kit
Organic Solutions
In some cases, special cleaning products may not effectively remove heavy soiling from couch faux leather. Despite their effectiveness, they can occasionally leave noticeable streaks on the furniture surface after the initial application. This can be due to various factors, such as the composition of the cleaning product, the type of faux leather, or the severity of the stains. That’s why we have selected the top three methods for cleaning a faux leather couch using common household items that can be found in any kitchen.
1. Mild Cleaning Soap
Since aggressive cleaning products can make furniture faux leather stiff or damage the surface, it is recommended to use a mild cleaning soap and follow these steps:
- In a spray bottle, mix approximately 1 tablespoon of cleaning solution with enough water to fill the bottle
- Shake vigorously
- Apply the solution to a clean cloth
- Blot the stains and wipe with a cloth to remove residue and streaks
2. Vinegar
For tougher stains such as ink or dyes, you will need white vinegar
- Mix equal parts vinegar and water
- Soak the fabric in the solution
- Dab the stain and repeat using a clean area of the fabric
Note: Before applying vinegar, test its effect on an inconspicuous area of the couch to ensure it does not damage the fabric.
3. Rubbing Alcohol
Rubbing alcohol, like vinegar, is effective in removing stubborn and visible stains.
- Mix equal parts rubbing alcohol and water
- Apply the solution to the fabric and gently rub the stained area. Make sure to test the product on the couch beforehand
- Blot the stain until it disappears
- Dry the surface
We strongly urge you to remove stains while they are fresh! In case of liquid spills on the faux leather couch, excess moisture should be immediately removed using a dry sponge or cloth, then the area should be dried with a dry woolen cloth.
Dirt can be eliminated with a weak soapy solution. Stains left by wine, medicinal tinctures, and markers can be treated with rubbing alcohol and a cotton pad, followed by treatment with a stearin sponge.
All kinds of organic grease stains do not pose a danger to faux leather furniture: the stain is wiped with a dry cloth and left for a certain period.
If attempts to clean a faux leather couch on your own do not yield satisfactory results, it is advisable to consider seeking professional dry cleaning services. Professional cleaners have access to a wide range of specialized products and possess the necessary expertise to effectively handle various types of stains and dirt.
For further insights and a comprehensive guide on effective cleaning methods, we invite you to explore our companion article on “Mastering Mattress Cleaning: How To Remove Stains And Keep Your Bed Fresh“.
