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Suede is a delicate material that needs to be treated with care. You can clean suede items like clothing, shoes, and furniture yourself using one of the methods outlined below.
Basic Suede Cleaning
You'll require the following items:
- A bath towel
- A clean pencil eraser
- A suede brush
- White vinegar
- A clean, dry cloth
Follow these steps:
- Gently rub the suede with the towel.
- Use the pencil eraser to eliminate dry stains.
- Brush the suede with the suede brush.
- Apply a small amount of vinegar to the stains.
- Lightly scrub the stains with a dry cloth and allow the suede to air dry [source: repairhome].
To remove mud, oil, or ink stains, gather one or more of these items:
- Dry-cleaning solvent
- Blotting paper
- Leather degreaser
- Suede brush
- Nail file
- High-nap towel
- Clean, dry cloth
Follow these steps:
- Ink stains Quickly blot the stain to absorb excess ink. Apply some dry cleaning solvent and let both the solvent and stain evaporate.
- Mud Carefully scrape off the mud using a nail file [source: Alward].
- Grease or oil stains Dab leather degreaser on the stain with a clean cloth, following the product instructions. Allow the degreaser to dry, then use the suede brush to remove any powder residue [source: MrsClean].
After cleaning, gently rub the suede with a nail file or towel to help restore the nap [source: Alward].
Tips and Suggestions:
- Spray new suede items with a suede protection product, which can be found in most stores. Always test a small hidden area before applying it to the entire item.
- Avoid using water to clean oil or grease stains, as it may spread the stain.
- Use a suede brush to remove dust from your garments or shoes. Keep the brush dedicated to this purpose only.
- Wear a scarf to shield suede collars from sweat, hair products, body oils, and makeup.
- Store suede garments in breathable fabric bags instead of plastic ones.
- Consult a specialist for tough stains or to have high-value items cleaned professionally.
- Take your garments to a suede expert for professional cleaning every two years [source: Alward].
