Suede is rising as one of the must-have fabrics for autumn/winter 2024 but it can be a tricky surface to keep clean. Between Irish weather and day-to-day spils and stains, if you own suede you will need to brush up on some cleaning tips for this delicate fabric.
Before doing anything, read the label attached to your suede item. This will give you a guideline on how to care for that particular suede piece. You can also visit the manufacturer’s website for specialised guidance.
First, use a dry suede brush or toothbrush to gently brush away dirt from your shoes. Buffing with the brush can also help to remove minor scuff marks. A clean pencil rubber or standard cleaning sponge can rub away difficult stains on the fabric, apply some light pressure when using this. For stubborn stains, wet the corner of a cloth with a suede cleaner, white vinegar or rubbing alcohol and lightly dampen the shoe with it. Massage the fabric with a quick back-and-forth motion and allow the suede to dry. Repeat the process if necessary.
If you spill or splash oil or grease onto suede, it can be removed. Sprinkle some cornflour onto the stain and leave it for a few hours before gently wiping away the cornflour with a cloth.
For lingering marks, make a 50/50 mixture of water and white vinegar. Gently dab this mixture onto the stain with a soft clean cloth. Avoid soaking the fabric, dampen it before brushing the stained area and allowing it to air dry. Once dry, brush it again to fluff up the fabric once again.
If chewing gum sticks to your suede item, such as a shoe, you can freeze it to remove the gum. eave it in the freezer until the gum hardens. You can then peel or scrape it from the fabric.
You should avoid putting suede in the washing machine or hand washing it. This fabric absorbs liquid like water and soap, which could cause stains to set in. Instead, always start your cleaning process with a dry brush and follow the above steps for more stubborn stains.
To keep your suede items in top condition, regularly brush them. Using a soft-bristled brush can loosen dirt between wears and keep the item looking fresh. You can also use a protectant spray to prevent staining on the fabric. This will help to repel dirt and reduce the risk of stains or watermarks. Test the spray on a small, concealed area first to ensure it won’t damage the fabric.
