We are currently shopping for new furniture. On Saturday, we found a couch and chair we like. We found this exact pair at two different locations. At one store, they said they would treat the furniture with Ultrashield protection and it was guaranteed for 10 years. At the other store, the salesperson told us that you CANNOT treat microfiber with any protectant or it will ruin it. We do not know who to believe. Any experience/advice is appreciated.
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All Microfibres are made of synthetic fiber. They tend to be a slick, smooth fiber (and some of them are "texturized") and do NOT absorb dyes and finishes into the fibre. Anything applied will sit (or adhere) on the surface of the fiber only. Microfiber describes a type of texturized, small diameter fiber that feels soft. It is not absorbant and most liquids will run off the fiber for the most part, though some liquids could seep inbetween the weave of the fabric.
Most synthetic fibers are what is known as oleophilic - meaning they will absorb oils. Oily stains are more likely to create problems for you than one that might "color" stain.
I have had protectant applied to both natural and synthetic fibers with good results (including microfiber). It does gradually wear off of either.
I am not sure what you are paying to have the finish applied, but it supposedly comes with a 10 year warranty (against staining?). This type of warranty is ONLY GOOD if you keep the original receipt, and follow any cleaning instructions that come on the package, and the company (Ultrashield) stays in business for ten years. The warranty will not be with your furniture company. If you are good about keeping up with receipts over the years, etc. this may be a good warranty. At the very least it will help protect your furniture's surface.
It will not hurt the microfiber, but also may not adhere well over the years.
Consider if you think the warranty is going to be worth it to you - will you keep the furniture 10 years? Is it going to see heavy use (particularly food and drink consumed on it)?
I have generally chosen to have the finish applied and been happy with it. My degree is in Textiles, and this information comes from both education and personal experience. I hope this helps you make a decision.
When I bought my microfiber furniture, I was told not to use any protectorant on it. So far, I've had no problem removing stains. Good luck and God bless you.
I just purchased a couch and chair set from a local furniture store in NJ. They first told me that they would sell me the Ultra shield which include an initial treatment and boxed kit. Then I would get free refills for 'life'. After the sales person wrote up my receipt I noted the 90 dollar charge....fine. Well I eventually purchased a table and chair set the same evening, and they wanted to charge me 150 dollars for the same kit.
Don't shop at Suburban Furniture if you don't want to be 'ripped off'.
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