Laundry Tips: Cleaning Suede Leather

Suede leather is made out of calfskin and is characterised by it's textured surface. Suede is popular because of it's texture, smoothness, warmth and cheaper price point than regular leather. However, there are many who shy away from buying anything made from suede because of it's difficulty to keep clean.

An investment in suede warrants a good understanding of cleaning methods should your suede clothes, shoes or accessories become dirty. Here are our suede cleaning tips:

Instructions for Cleaning Suede

Ensure the suede is dry before treating. If the stain is wet, lay a paper towel over the affected area to absorb excess moisture.

Next, rub the suede gently with a soft towel or suede brush to restore some of its nap and to remove scuff marks, dirt or dried mud.

For small stains, use a pencil eraser on the soiled area. While vinegar can be applied in a VERY SMALL amount as a last-resort stain remover. Lightly dampen a cloth and gently blot. Air dry. For large stains, leave it to the professionals!

If you get suede shoes wet, dampen them all over to prevent uneven drying marks, then insert scrunched newspaper or paper so they hold their shape. Pat dry, then dry in the sun. Brush with a suede brush.

To prevent suede items from getting dirty in the first place, use a suede protector or waterproofing product, brush regularly and reapply protector every 6 months.

If your shoes have large stains, bring them to elaundry. We offer a shoe restoration service with 24-48 hour turnaround.