Suede is a type of leather but it is thinner and not as durable as usual leather. If you need to clean anything suede you will need to take special steps and make sure you take the right approach in order to avoid damaging the piece. There are different methods that will help you get rid of oily stains, sticker residue, or other types of dirt. Since suede is rather delicate, it cannot endure harsh chemical use. It is important that you use gentle, suede-friendly cleaning products and always do a test in a hidden area to ensure that it will not harm the fabric. Professional cleaners are also using these methods.
Since suede is porous and easily absorbs oil, dirt, and other debris, you should always brush it with a soft-bristled brush before cleaning. It is best if you do that after every wear. If you have any valuable suede pieces, you may want to invest in a suede brush. That will help you prevent dirt and dust from building up and settling in the suede. Regular removal of dust will also help prevent stains from occurring.
What you will need:
- suede/soft-bristled brush
- soft, clean cloth
- glue remover
- pencil or art gum eraser
- blunt knife or plastic edge
- baby powder or cornstarch
Cleaning dried stains from suede pieces
We will talk about different steps you can take in order to clean suede pieces. Keep in mind that those steps progressively get harsher and more abrasive. This is why it is best to begin with the gentlest one and see what works best.
- Gently rub the suede with a clean soft cloth – Rub the area gently. That way you will remove any dry, solid dirt. What is more, you will restore some of the original texture of the suede and will be able to remove dirt better.
- Use an art gum eraser or a plain pencil eraser. Gently rub any stains away.
Removing oily stains from suede
- Sprinkle the oily stain with baby powder or cornstarch and let it sit for an hour. That way you will absorb the oil from the stained area. Depending on the stain, the powder may appear oily after an hour. Brush away with a soft brush.
- Repeat the previous step until the powder no longer changes its texture or colour.
- Brush off the loose powder and rub with a suede brush in order to restore the texture.
In order to remove liquid stains from suede
- Blot the liquid away – Blot as much liquid as possible with a soft, clean cloth. Put the cloth on the stain and press it in order to absorb the stain. Keep moving to a clean and dry area of the cloth in order to remove all the moisture you can. Keep blotting until the area appears dry.
- Allow the stain to air dry. Place away from direct heat and sunlight.
- If the stain is still there, use the steps for a dry stain from above.
Pro tip: Suede can be protected from liquid stains by using a waterproofing spray on it. You should always test it in an inconspicuous area to see if there are any colour or texture changes.
Cleaning sticker residue from suede
All kinds of stickers, name or price tags and tape can be found on suede clothing, shoes, or furniture. Usually, as one removes those, sticky tape residue is left behind. Keep reading to see how you can remove it. Do not use any commercial glue removers, since they often contain chemicals that may damage or harm the suede.
- Dampen the area – Dampen the sticker or tape and the area surrounding it. You can use a wet paper towel or a cloth.
- Scrape away the sticker – Use a dull knife or a plastic scraper to gently remove the sticker from the suede surface.
- Allow the spot to air dry slowly and away from direct sunlight or heat.
- Remove the rest of the residue. Use an art gum eraser. Use a gentle touch and light motions. Do not rub harshly, the eraser will pick up any glue residue that might be left behind on your suede piece.
- Use an emery file if necessary. Only use this as a last resort.
If the stain is large or unusual, or you are worried you may damage your favourite suede piece, it is best to call a professional and allow them to take care of the stains. Identify the stain in order to help them choose the best cleaning solution for the case in hand.
Extra tips:
In order to restore the original texture of the surface, use a suede brush to gently lift the fibres. That will restore and smooth out the surface to the original soft and beautiful suede texture.
Make sure the brushing is the last step you take when cleaning any stain from any suede piece.