How To Clean Polyester Couch: Simple Step By Step Guide

Last Updated on July 30, 2023 By Emma W. Thomas

To clean a polyester couch, follow these steps:

• Vacuum the surface to remove loose dirt and debris.
• Mix a mild detergent with warm water.
• Dampen a clean cloth and gently blot stains.
• Use a soft-bristled brush for tougher stains.
• Let it air dry

What Is Polyester?

Polyester is an artificial fabric, and it’s made up of synthetic fibers to give fabric strength and durability. Due to these super exceptional abilities, it’s recommended by several people. The sun doesn’t affect this material as much as the others, and thus, it maintains its color for an extended period. Different types of polyester are used in furniture faux leather, microfibers, satin, and many more.

How To Clean Polyester Couch- Simple Steps To Follow

Here we look at simple steps you can follow in cleaning your polyester couches to prevent cracks from exposure to fluctuating temperatures, peeling from high pressure, and losing structural integrity from overstretching. You can follow the steps as a professional or DIY wishing to clean your couch from stains and dirt. 

Getting The Cleaning Code

Polyester couches have some tags, usually found in the cushions or the creased sections, especially if you bought your furniture from a reputable seller. The code will guide you on the perfect product and cleaning practices for your fabric to maintain its color and avoid damaging the upholstery. The code could be W, S, SW, or X. 

Check what it means:

• The letter W indicates water cleaning only or water-based detergents such as lemon juice, vinegar, and steam cleaner for stubbornness.
• S indicates solvent cleaning. They are combustible and should be used away from any open flames.
• The tag SW means either solvent-based cleaner or water is safe.
• If your couch tag reads X, you should be careful as it means your furniture needs to be cleaned by professionals only.

Vacuum Your Couch

You’re supposed to remove the large particles and debris first if you want to clean your polyester sofa deep. Start the cleaning procedure with good vacuuming using your regular vacuum. But, remove all the pillows and cushions plus any other object on your couch for proper vacuuming. To cover the entire couch surface, make sure you work in a systematic grid-wise manner.

Cleaning

Take a towel or a soft clean cloth and clean any wet areas but don’t press too much. It will ensure the liquid doesn’t enter the polyurethane foam in the padding.

Add Baking Soda To Remove Odors. 

Sprinkle about one-fourth cup of baking soda over the spilled areas to deodorize it and wait for a few minutes. The baking soda is used to remove the odors, not to clean them. Ensure the baking soda on your sofa is dry because it will not work if it’s a bit damp when the time is up; vacuum again to remove the powder. 

Add Detergents

Take two to three tablespoons of mild detergents and mix it with one-quarter of warm water. Liquid dishwashing detergent is the best. However, the amount of detergents depends on how large an area needs to be cleaned. Mix your solution until it creates foam.

Start Scrubbing

Put or pour enough solution all over the stain and scrub it gently on the fabric. Scrub all the places into and fro motion, working from the outside until all the colors are gone.

Wipe Off

Using warm water and a clean wet cloth, wipe out gently the areas you are scrubbing. Remove all the solution and soap everywhere. Dry the area thoroughly, and you can choose to use a hair drier to speed up the process if need be.

Fluff Up The Couch

Use one of your soft brushes and rub it against the polyester fabric. All this will ensure your couch is fluffy again.

Common Mistakes to Avoid while Cleaning Polyester Couch

When cleaning a polyester couch, avoid these common mistakes to ensure its longevity and appearance:

1. Using Harsh Cleaners: Avoid using harsh chemicals, bleach, or ammonia-based cleaners, as they can damage the fabric and cause discoloration.
2. Skipping Spot Testing: Always perform a spot test in an inconspicuous area before applying any cleaning solution to the entire couch. This helps prevent potential color fading or damage.
3. Over-Wetting the Fabric: Excessive water can saturate the polyester fabric, leading to watermarks and potential mold growth. Use a damp cloth rather than soaking the couch.
4. Scrubbing Vigorously: Avoid aggressive scrubbing, as it can weaken the fabric and cause pilling. Gently blot and dab stains to lift them without causing undue friction.
5. Neglecting Vacuuming: Regular vacuuming prevents dirt and debris buildup, extending the couch’s lifespan and reducing the frequency of deep cleaning.
6. Not Checking Manufacturer’s Instructions: Always review the couch’s care label or manufacturer’s guidelines. Different polyester blends may have specific cleaning recommendations.
7. Ignoring Stains Promptly: Address spills and stains promptly to prevent them from setting into the fabric permanently. Immediate action increases the likelihood of complete stain removal.
8. Using Heat for Drying: Avoid using high heat or direct sunlight to dry the couch, as it can damage the fabric and cause fading. Opt for air drying at room temperature instead.
9. Neglecting the Frame: While cleaning the fabric, don’t overlook the couch’s frame. Dust and clean the frame regularly to maintain overall cleanliness.
10. Skipping Regular Maintenance: Regularly maintain your polyester couch to prevent deep-seated stains and dirt buildup, making the cleaning process more manageable.

Tip And Tricks For Cleaning Your Couch

• Pre-test any cleaning product always on a small area not visible to avoid discoloration or surface damage.
• Lemon juice can help eliminate foul odor.
• Shampoo can also get rid of stains too and a hairdryer to speed up drying.
• To remove greasy stains, use warm water, and cold water will work perfectly on standard colors.
• It’s advisable to wear gloves to protect your hands when using commercial cleaners since some might be too harsh on the skin.
• Polyester couches need to be a bit damp, do not overdo it. Cleansers also need to be applied in a thin layer.
• Always check the cleaning code for your couch because each material differs in types of compatible cleansers.
• Use solvent in an area with proper ventilation and free of open flames because most are toxic and flammable.
• Keep your deodorizing baking powder in a separate place from the one you cook with to avoid possible mix-ups that would transfer an unpleasant taste from the absorbed odor molecules.
• Blot, rub or wipe the cleanser off the stain gently to restrain them from spreading further.
• Use a squeegee to remove pet hair.
• Polyester furniture needs to be cleaned at least one to two times a year.
• If you doubt yourself, consider hiring professional cleaners or follow the steps mentioned above keenly.

Types Of Stains And How You Can Get Rid Of Them

Any couch can develop stains at any particular time, even polyester. So let’s check some of the possible ones and ways you can eliminate them.

Food Stains

To eliminate food stains, mix equal parts of water plus white vinegar to a mild liquid detergent spray on the spot, and wait for 5 minutes before spraying again and blotting it.

Bloodstains

You should remove the blood stain by dabbing the spot with a piece of cloth moistened with hydrogen peroxide. Wipe off the area with a dry cloth when you notice bubbling. Don’t ever use hot water on fresh bloodstains because it will make them adhere to your couch surface.

Grease Stains

Everyone wishes all spills would contain just water, but that is not the case; oil stains can also happen. It’s possible to remove them sometimes by sprinkling a small amount of baking soda for an hour before brushing it off gently. Afterward, clean it with mild detergents. You can also use borax or hydrogen peroxide to speed up the complete elimination of the grass stains.

Sweat Stains

It’s the most common stain, and you can eliminate it with a mixture of white vinegar and water.

Water Stains

Whereas the vacuum comes up short to expel some stains, that mainly means the water is caught in with the strands of your couch. A transparent water stain is left majorly due to hidden dirt and dust. To wind it up, vinegar is a natural and economical product that’s practical constraints that eliminates the couch’s water strains. To speed up drying, turn up the temperature of the room.

Ink Stain

You may find your polyester couch has been stained with ink, especially if you have kids. Use hairspray to remove it, although it’s the alcohol in the spray that works.

Pet Urine Stain

For recent urine, apply baking soda and White vinegar and leave for a while before blotting it out.  Pet older stains need a mixture of hydrogen peroxide and baking soda; you can add a few drops of mild cleanser. Spread the mixture on the stain; continue applying a thin layer until the soiled spot is clean. The baking powder will eliminate the odor.

Stuck Chewing Gum

To remove stuck chewing gum quickly, rub it with an ice cube to harden it for easy lifting.

Advantages Of Polyester

• It’s solid and durable
• Lightweight and flexible
• Easily dyed
• Resistant to wrinkling and shrinking
• Blend easily with other fibers
• Affordable
• Remain consistent in various conditions
• Resist more stains better than natural materials

Disadvantages Of Polyester

• Your clothing will leave some items behind on the polyester couch.
• Cheaper polyester might have a pilling problem
• They are more vulnerable to heat
• Your skin oil can leave permanent stains on the couch
• It’s not breathable

How often should you clean your polyester couch?

The frequency of cleaning a polyester couch depends on its use and the level of dirt or stains it accumulates. Generally, it’s recommended to clean it at least once every 6-12 months to maintain its appearance and hygiene. Regular vacuuming and spot cleaning can also help keep it in good condition between deep cleanings.

Final Thoughts

With these cleaning steps, and all the tips and tricks provided here, you’re much more equipped to clean your polyester couch quickly and straightforwardly. Ensure you follow the fabric instructions to avoid discoloration or any possible damage. It’s always better to have your furniture cleaned by professionals, although it will be cheaper and more straightforward if you do it yourself. Don’t let stains ruin your quality time while snacking, watching TV, and lounging on your polyester sofa.

References:

https://www.wikihow.com/Clean-a-Polyester-Couch
https://honesthometalks.com/how-to-clean-polyester-couch/