How to Clean Suede

Suede is a fragile material that periodically needs to have a thorough cleaning. Perspiration, dirt, fluids and other types of debris can cling to the material and make it appear very dirty and unattractive. Cleaning suede the wrong way can damage the delicate material; therefore, extreme care must be used during the task. By using the correct products and utilizing the right cleaning method, anyone can clean suede at home.

Items Needed

Visit your nearest leather or suede specialty store and purchase a suede brush, suede cleaner and suede protectant spray. Ask the clerk if the store carries a specialty formula for cleaning suede that is specific for your item, such as shoes or a jacket. Retrieve a few old newspapers if you will be cleaning suede shoes. If you care cleaning a suede jacket or coat then use an old white towel to prevent newspaper ink transferring onto your item. Find or buy a pencil eraser and a plastic butter knife.

Preparation for Cleaning Suede

Place several newspapers down or the white towel onto a table. Take the suede cleaning products and place them on the table for ease. Lay the suede shoes or coat onto the newspaper or towel. Remove shoe laces from the suede shoes if necessary. By removing the shoe laces, the task will be much easier when you clean them.

Removing Dirt and Debris on Suede

Prep the suede item for cleaning by first removing loose debris and matted down areas. Employ the suede brush by gently brushing the item in circular motions. Continue using the suede brush until the entire surface area of the item has been brushed. Take the plastic butter knife and gently scrape matted down areas to lift the suede knap up. Gently press the knife tip down and scrap back and forth. Continue using the knife on the suede item until all matted down areas are elevated. Take a pencil eraser and gently rub it on stains and other marks that are on the suede. The pencil eraser will gently remove staining and help lift the knap back to its original place.

Clean Suede and Apply Protectant

Read the suede cleaner instructions carefully. Apply the suede cleaner per the instructions to your item. Take the suede brush and re-brush your item the following day. Apply the protectant spray per the instructions that are found on the bottle. The protect spray will help thwart dirt, other debris and moisture from sticking to your suede item. Avoid using harsh chemicals that are not specific for cleaning suede. Other types of cleaners can damage the material, remove the coloring or cause other forms of damage to the suede.