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Short answer
Microfibre is fabric made from extremely fine synthetic fibres, usually polyester or polyester-nylon, each finer than a strand of silk. Packed tightly, they make a soft, dense fabric, often with a brushed, suede-like surface called microsuede. For sofas it is soft, hard-wearing for its weight and, being tightly woven, gives claws little to hook into. The downsides: some microfibres show water marks and pressure marks, attract lint, and need cleaning to the label's code, often solvent rather than water.
What makes a fibre micro
Fibre fineness is measured in denier. A fibre finer than about 1 denier is called a microfibre; silk is slightly over 1 denier, so a microfibre is finer than silk. Thousands of these fibres in each yarn make a very dense, smooth fabric.
- Usually polyester, sometimes blended with nylon for strength.
- Microsuede: a microfibre brushed to a suede-like nap.
- Microfibre velvet: a fine, short pile; see What Is Velvet Fabric?
Is microfibre good for a sofa?
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Very soft and smooth | Can show water rings and pressure marks |
| Dense weave: few loops for claws to catch | Attracts lint and pet hair, though it lifts off easily |
| Resists fading better than natural fibres | Often needs solvent cleaning (code S or W/S) |
| Hard-wearing for its weight | Can feel warm; less breathable than linen or cotton |
| Affordable | Quality varies widely; check the rub count |
Like any polyester, microfibre can shed tiny fibres when washed. See Recycled Polyester Fabric.
Microfibre, pets and children
Because the fibres are packed so tightly, claws tend to slide off rather than hook in, and pet hair wipes off with a damp rubber glove. That makes microfibre a common choice for pet homes, alongside short-pile polyester velvet and tight flat weaves. Check the rub count: 25,000 or more suits families and pets. See Pet-Friendly Sofa Fabric.
How do you clean microfibre?
- Check the cleaning code first. Many microfibres are code S (solvent only) or W/S. See How to Remove Stains from a Fabric Sofa.
- Vacuum weekly with a soft brush.
- Blot spills immediately; avoid soaking.
- Water marks: on code S fabrics, water itself can leave a ring. Use the right cleaner, and dry evenly.
- Brush the nap with a soft brush once dry to restore an even surface.
Watch out
Test any cleaner on a hidden area first and let it dry. Microsuede can change colour or texture where it has been wet.
Microfibre vs velvet vs flat weave
All three suit busy homes when well made. Short-pile polyester velvet gives richer colour and sheen; a tight flat or textured weave is the most forgiving of water and marks; microfibre sits between, soft and smooth with a suede feel. Compare samples and rub counts. In the JOTEX range, check each collection's composition and rub count on its page; the 40,000-rub YarnGuard PURIFY and REPEL velvets and TEKUSU OMAKE flat weave are good comparisons. See How to Choose Sofa Fabric.
Frequently asked questions
What is microfibre fabric made of?
Extremely fine synthetic fibres, usually polyester or polyester-nylon, each finer than about 1 denier.
Is microfibre good for a sofa?
Often, yes: it is soft and hard-wearing for its weight. Check the rub count and cleaning code, because some microfibres show water marks.
Is microfibre good with cats?
Usually. Its dense weave gives claws little to hook into, and hair wipes off with a damp rubber glove.
Can you use water on microfibre?
Only if the cleaning code is W or W/S. Code S microfibres need a solvent cleaner; water can leave rings.
What is the difference between microfibre and microsuede?
Microsuede is a microfibre fabric brushed to a soft, suede-like nap.
Curtain maker, upholsterer or designer?
Specifications are public on every collection page. JOTEX dealers can log in for live stock and pricing, and our team can send samples or open a dealer account.