Microfiber is a somewhat new technology in textiles and is becoming an increasingly popular fabric for use on furniture. Walk into any Dallas furnishings store, and you are bound to come across a sales floor filled with many beautiful sofas, loveseats, chaises and sectionals covered in microfiber. Whether you shop at designer boutiques or a chain store, you will find a salesman pitching the many benefits of microfiber.

What is microfiber exactly? Well, microfiber is actually the name for the tiny fibers the fabric is woven from. Because the fibers are so small, in fact, thinner than a human hair, the “microfibers” can be tightly woven or knitted, creating an excellent quality piece of cloth. Microfiber is usually made from polyester, nylon, rayon or a blend of these and other synthetic materials. It is the versatility of these tiny fibers that allows for a great variety of looks. Microfiber fabrics can have the look and feel of chenille, velvet or even silk. Microsuede is another version that resembles a “faux” suede.

There are many advantages to microfiber, it is less susceptible to fading and shrinking, and it is water-resistant. Because it is so tightly woven, there is less chance of fabric “pilling.” This what you may know as the little balls of fluff you see on older furniture as a sign of wear. In comparison to more traditional fabrics, microfiber is considered to be stronger and more durable, yet lighter in weight. It is breathable and drapes well over furniture without bunching up.

But most of all microfiber is soft, comfortable and makes a smart choice! Given its many benefits, it is no wonder that so many families in Dallas have chosen this superior cloth to use in their most coveted space-their living rooms.

In a perfect world, your furniture would stay clean and spotless. Well unless you have it covered with plastic, that is unlikely! Eating, drinking, pets, kids,-these can all add up to a dirty couch!

 

When it comes to caring for your microfiber furniture, the first thing you want to do is look for a tag. Here are the codes you can commonly expect:

 

(W) Use water based cleaning solution

(S) Use Solvent based cleaner

(S-W) Use either water or solvent based cleaner

(X) Vacuum only-do not use water or solvent

 

Consult the instructions and ingredients of any cleaner you choose to find out whether it is water or solvent based. If there is no tag or code on your furniture, be careful! A common complaint with microfiber is water rings. You will want to wet the fabric evenly with a fine spray to ensure you do not get a water spot. Depending on how confident you feel taking this into your own hands, you may just end up paying a professional to do it for you! But generally, microfiber should clean up well and easily. Remember to always do a spot test whether you or a professional do the cleaning. Also be sure and ask for Teflon protector at purchase and after cleaning, to keep your microfiber living room set looking like new!