Microfiber and Microsuede Upholstery Fabric
A lot of people want to know the difference between microfiber and microsuede. The truth is that microsuede is actually a type of microfiber. Microsuede was invented back in the 70s and first called “Ultrasuede.”
Typical microfiber feels smooth and soft whereas microsuede mimics the raised texture of regular suede. Microsuede doesn’t look exactly the same as normal suede, but it is very similar. Plus, you get a lot more advantages when you use microfiber microsuede as an upholstery fabric.
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Which is Better: Microfiber or Microsuede?
Microfiber is not actually one type of fiber. This is a general term that describes manmade microfibers, generally crafted from nylon or polyester, or a combination of both. Microfiber fabrics usually have a thread diameter half that of silk, with ultra-fine threads that make extremely lightweight fabrics. Microfibers are easier to clean, stain resistant, resistant to wrinkles, and appear luxurious.
Because microfiber is more of an umbrella term, you can’t really say microfiber or microsuede is better. Microsuede is actually made from microfiber. It’s created out of polyester fabric with millions and millions of tiny microfibers. Microsuede is known to have the same soft feel of genuine suede leather with none of its negative drawbacks.
Additionally, microsuede is not as expensive as real suede, making it affordable for people who otherwise wouldn’t purchase suede upholstery fabrics. And of course, you can get microsuede in just about any colour to match your room’s decor.
Is Microsuede Better Than Suede for Upholstery?
Microsuede is often a much better choice for an upholstery fabric than normal suede. This is because microsuede is extra durable and stain resistant. Microsuede is the ideal alternative to normal suede. It’s more durable, it’s more pliable, it’s softer, and it’s even more affordable.
Microsuede upholstery fabrics are stain resistant and resistant to dirt and can hold up exceptionally well to normal wear and tear. Microsuede fabric is used to make bedding and curtains. It’s also resistant to wrinkles and preferred for making things like shoes and other accessories.
Microsuede is also ideal for crafts and sewing, seeing as it’s much easier to clean than standard suede. The only issue with microsuede is that the dye must be washed out before any project because it’s not colourfast. But this is easy to do, running the fabric under cold water until all the dye has been released.
In the end, because microsuede is so much more durable and has so many more resistances than normal suede, you would do well to choose microsuede as an upholstery fabric.
Is Microsuede Easy to Clean?
One of the biggest issues people have with microsuede is that they think it’s difficult to clean. And unfortunately, this is sort of true. Even though microsuede is indeed water resistant, it isn’t stain resistant if you rub water into it.
To clean microsuede, you need to dab the fabric with a clean cloth. Never rub microsuede unless you want it to stain. The same goes for soap. You never want to use soap with microsuede because it will almost always stain the material.
The good thing with microsuede is that small spills typically stay on the surface and can be wiped up immediately. The only issue is when water or some other liquid or goo soaks into the microsuede. Then you’re going to have a difficult time getting it out.
The best thing for cleaning microsuede is a polyester cleaner. If you’re getting a lot of upholstery fabrics made from microsuede material, you should pick up a polyester cleaner specifically for this type of fabric. If you don’t have any handy, rubbing alcohol is another great cleaning agent. Just make sure that you use a small amount of cleaning solution and don’t oversaturate the microsuede when trying to clean it.
It’s also important to remember that even though microsuede is very soft, it can get stiff and rigid after it’s been cleaned. The secret to returning microsuede to its original softness is to rub it with a soft brush or even a cleaning toothbrush.
The best way to remove unwanted odour from microsuede is to lightly sprinkle the fabric with baking soda. This should get rid of any nasty smells that have gotten stuck in the microsuede fabric.
Is Microsuede Fabric Durable?
Microsuede is extremely durable. It’s soft like natural suede leather, resistant to wear, friendly to pets, mostly impervious to stains, and easy to care for. Some of the most comfortable and durable sofas are made with microsuede upholstery. In fact, microsuede is much nicer than cotton or wool, or even leather when it comes to couches.
Is Microsuede Good for Upholstery?
Microsuede is a great upholstery facric. It’s easy to clean, it breathes just like cotton, it’s a cozy fabric the curl up in during the winter, and it remains dry and cool in the hotter summer months. Microsuede has a soft and delicate feeling that people love on their skin. Microsuede is the most luxurious microfiber that you can get at a low price.
What is the Most Durable Fabric for Upholstery?
Microfiber is by far the most durable upholstery fabric that you can use. Leather is stronger – but nobody wants to use leather upholstery for a couch or recliner that they’re going to be lounging on. Certainly, nobody wants leather upholstery for their curtains or bedding.
Microfiber made from 100% polyester is stain resistant, it won’t fade, and it shouldn’t leave any water marks if you accidentally splash water on it. Microfiber, and particularly microfiber microsuede, cleans easily and stands up to the test of time.
Microfiber is best used in living areas because of its durability. Sofas, recliners, ottomans, and anything else that sees a lot of heavy use is going to be better upholstered in microfiber. There isn’t as much demand for microfiber bedding or curtains, but you can definitely still use it.
The only other material you might consider for upholstering living room furniture is going to be cotton. Some argue that cotton is more comfortable, but it can’t really hold up as well as microfiber.
Related Article – How to choose upholstery fabric
