Googling how to clean suede? Odds are you’ve dropped something down your favourite jacket or scuffed a brand-new handbag. As a type of leather, suede can’t go in the washing machine. In fact, it’s so impressionable that water on its own can leave stains behind. That’s why we panic when something spills!
Suede is difficult to clean, so much so that it puts some off buying it, especially when you consider the price. But it doesn’t have to be this way. It’s entirely possible to remove stains from suede with the right products and method. Here, we break down what you need to do as well as how best to protect your suede in the future.
We’re talking about suede clothing and accessories here, but check out our guide on how to clean suede boots if you need help with those, too.
Watermarks
It’s all too easy to get caught in the rain with your suede. By the time you reach shelter, there are discoloured spots all over the material, so what can you do?
Take the item off as soon as you can and leave it to dry in a well-ventilated space. Do not leave it near a heat source, such as a radiator, or it could damage the material. Avoid drying in direct sunlight, too, as this could fade the item. Let it dry naturally and then use a suede brush, such as Jump Suede and Nubuck Brush, to brush out the marks and even out the colouring.
Don’t scrub aggressively, but be patient and brush repeatedly back and forth until it appears restored.
GHI Tip: Always check the weather forecast before you wear your favourite suede. If there’s a likely chance of rain at any stage of the day, it’s better to leave the item at home.
Take care of your clothes
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Light stains
Use a suede block for everyday cleaning, such as Kaps Quality Nubuck and Suede Eraser. Do not scrub aggressively, as this could damage the surface. Instead, work out stains gently in a circular motion.
For a deeper clean, you could invest in a suede brush with brass bristles, such as Kaps Quality Nubuck and Suede Multifunctional Cleaning Shoe Brush. However, care must be taken, as it’s more abrasive than your typical suede brush.
A crepe brush is another option, such as Saphir Wooden Crepe Brush. This is a bit like a cross between a suede block and a brush. It drags dirt out of the suede while lifting the nap at the same time.
Heavy stains
If the worst has happened and something has spilled down your suede, start by carefully removing the excess by hand.
For solid stains, use a paper towel to lift away the residue, working from the outside in, taking care not to spread it. For liquid spills, remove what you can with paper towels, then apply talcum powder on top to absorb what remains. Leave it for several hours before dusting away with a suede brush.
Do not scrub at the stain and do not apply generic stain removers off the bat; these are likely unsuitable for leather.
If the care label specifies specialist cleaning, or you’re dealing with a large stain or discolouration, then that’s what we recommend. Take your item to a specialist leather cleaner, such as Ace of Suedes, and point out the stain and clarify what it is when you take it in.
If the item isn’t particularly precious to you, and you want to try tackling the stain yourself, there are products you can use. You can try a specialist suede cleaner, such as The Leather Clinic Suede and Nubuck Cleaner Foam. It’s worth testing the cleaner on an inconspicuous area first to check for discolouration.
Protect your suede
Once clean, it’s essential that you add a layer of protection to your suede with a waterproof spray. This will protect your suede from watermarks as well as everyday stains. Just make sure the product is suitable for suede and use a brand recommended by the manufacturer, otherwise there’s a chance it could discolour. Always test on an inconspicuous area first.
Liquiproof LABS Premium Protector Spray is an example of what you could use. Apply as many layers as suggested by the instructions and reapply as often as necessary.
Store it right
Your suede jackets should be hung up using substantial wooden hangers (not wire ones), such as SONGMICS Suit Hangers. Store them in a cool, dry space, away from any heat sources including direct sunlight. Do not fold suede or you risk damaging it.
When storing for a long time, use a breathable garment bag to protect the item from moths, such as Hayden Hill Luxury Cotton Garment Storage Bag.
Suede cleaning essentials
The Leather Clinic Suede & Nubuck Cleaner Foam
