Suede is a unique material made from the soft underside of an animal’s hide. Though it comes from leather, it isn’t as durable as its traditional counterpart and tends to scuff and stain with ease. And while suede is a great material for clothing, it can be notoriously difficult to clean suede when it gets dirty.
Indeed, there are tons of rules on how to get stains out of suede and keep it clean, including that it should always be pat dry and left to air dry before storing, and you should never leave it next to a heater or use a hairdryer. Given how complicated it can be, we thought it would be useful to put together a brief article about how to clean suede. If this is something that you’re interested in learning more about, read on as we break down everything you need to know about how to get stains out of suede.
Dirt
Suede is a soft and natural material, so it doesn’t require much effort to remove light stains. A brush with stiff bristles will do the trick. You can also use a generic bristle brush or a toothbrush. Start by gently brushing the bristles in one direction in a back-and-forth motion, switching directions as needed. Afterwards, you can use art gum erasers to tidy up the stain. This will not only remove the stain but also help you maintain the integrity of the suede and keep it in your closet for a long time!
Oil Stains
If you have a tough oil stain on your clothes or shoes, corn starch or baking soda can help to get it out. Simply sprinkle on enough of either substance to cover the stain completely, then let it sit for 10 minutes to a few hours. After that, use a stiff-bristled brush to remove the excess powder. You may need to repeat the process if the stain is still visible.
Heavy Duty Stains
To remove a set-in stain from suede, you can use either white vinegar or rubbing alcohol. Pour either one onto a clean, dry white washcloth or microfiber cloth, and blot the area gently. The goal is to dampen the stained suede, not totally soak it. Let it air dry, and then use a suede brush to wipe away any residue.
Conclusion
We hope this article proves to be useful when it comes to helping you determine the best way to clean suede. As you can see, there are many ways to clean your clothes and shoes. With that being said, one of the best ways to clean suede is to take it to the cleaners. This is because they have the experience and knowledge to clean your clothes without damaging them. Make sure to research the company you plan on taking your clothes to so you know that they use natural and approved products in their process.
If you’re looking for dry cleaning in Barrhaven, we here at Goodfellow Cleaners have got you covered. With over 25 years of serving Ottawa residents and businesses, our team is experienced at dry cleaning even your most valued garments like your wedding gown or expensive suit. For more information on what we can do for you, visit our website today!