Project Summary
- Duration of Work: 5 to 10 minutes
- Duration: 20 minutes to 1 hour
- Proficiency Level: Novice
- Projected Expense: $10
Suede requires careful handling to effectively eliminate dirt, oil, or adhesive residue stains. This type of leather is a natural, soft, and velvety material that is thin, porous, and not as resilient as full-grain leather. For minor stains on suede and microsuede (synthetic suede) items such as upholstery, boots, clothing, slippers, and clogs, common household products can be quite effective. It is important to never apply bleach to suede and to use water only in limited amounts.
Before applying any cleaning solution to a stain, it’s important to first test it on a discreet, inconspicuous spot to ensure it doesn’t cause any discoloration or damage.
Use these guidelines to eliminate various stains, including oil, water, dirt, and adhesives, from natural and synthetic suede items such as shoes, clothing, upholstery, and beyond.
Contents
Eliminating Stains from Suede
Each subsequent step becomes increasingly abrasive, so it’s advisable to start with the mildest option. These methods are also effective for addressing small scratches on suede.
Eliminating Set-In Stains
- Carefully massage the stain with a fabric: Take a fresh, soft piece of fabric and gently wipe away any dried stain on the surface. This will also help to revive some of the texture of the nap.
- Use a pencil eraser: Lightly rub any leftover marks with a pencil or art gum eraser.
- Utilize an emery board: Should the stain remain, gently rub the area with an emery nail board.
Eliminating Greasy Marks
- Dust the stain with powder: Apply baby powder or cornstarch to the stain to soak up the oil and allow it to rest for an hour. After this time, the powder might look greasy. Use a soft brush to remove the absorbed powder.
- Continue the process until the powder ceases to alter in color or texture for a duration of one hour. Remove the excess powder and gently brush the surface with a suede brush to rejuvenate the nap.
Eliminating Liquid Stains
- Absorb the stain: Use a clean, soft cloth to soak up as much liquid as you can. Place the cloth directly on the stain and press down to pull the moisture out of the suede and into the cloth. Rotate the cloth to a fresh, dry section and keep blotting until the spot looks dry.
- Let the suede dry naturally in a well-ventilated area, avoiding direct sunlight or heat sources.
- Apply powder to absorb the stain: If any marks persist after air drying, adhere to the previously suggested methods for tackling a dried stain.
Tip
To protect suede from moisture stains, you can apply a specially designed waterproofing spray. It’s important to conduct a test on a hidden seam first, as it may alter the color, appearance, and texture of your suede item.
Eliminating Adhesive Leftovers from Stickers
- Moisten the area: Lightly wet the sticker or tape and the surrounding surface using a damp paper towel.
- Remove the sticker by carefully lifting one corner using the edge of a dull knife or a credit card. Gradually work your way around the sticker, gently scraping it off.
- Let the area dry in a location that is not exposed to direct sunlight or heat sources.
- Eliminate the leftover residue: Utilize an art gum eraser to clear away any sticky remnants. Apply a gentle approach and exercise plenty of patience. Avoid excessive pressureinstead, softly rub the area, allowing the eraser to lift the remaining adhesive from the fabric.
- Utilize an emery board: If any residue remains, gently buff the area with an emery board nail file as a final option.
Tip
Steer clear of stain removers such as Goo Gone or any other chemical adhesive removers, as they may harm natural suede. The essential approach to eliminating the adhesive is to proceed gently and gradually to detach the sticky residue from the fibers of the nap.
Eliminating Glue Marks from Faux Suede
Microsuede and Ultrasuede are synthetic microfiber textiles featuring a soft, brushed texture that mimics the look of natural suede. These fabrics are more stain-resistant and easier to maintain compared to genuine suede. In fact, many synthetic suede options are machine washable. Be sure to adhere to the instructions provided on the care label.
- Utilize a gum eraser: Remove the adhesive residue by using an art gum eraser. Lightly rub the area, and the eraser will absorb the remaining glue from the fabric. This technique is particularly effective for microsuede footwear or upholstery that cannot be machine washed.
- Consider using a commercial adhesive remover: Adhere to the guidelines provided with the product, as these removers are typically safe to use on synthetic suede materials.
Extra Advice for Dealing with Suede Stains
- Avoiding stains on suede: After each wear or at least once a week, gently brush the suede with a soft-bristled brush to eliminate any loose debris. Suede is prone to absorbing oils and dirt that accumulate on its surface, so timely cleaning helps minimize the risk of stains.
- Alternative home solutions: Apply plain white vinegar or rubbing alcohol to eliminate stains from suede. Dampen a soft, clean white cloth with one of these liquids and gently rub it onto the stain. Let it dry, and then use a soft towel to restore the suede’s texture.
- Post-cleaning maintenance: After eliminating a stain or mark from the suede, use a suede brush to gently brush the affected area, helping to restore and even out the nap, or the suede’s natural, soft texture. Brushing should be the final step in any suede care process.
- Seek expert help: For significant or unusual stains, promptly bring your suede item to a dry cleaner. Be sure to highlight and specify the stain to assist your cleaner in selecting the appropriate treatment.
What are the most effective methods for eliminating water stains from suede?
Dampen a fresh sponge or cloth with water or lightly spray some water onto the water stain. Next, take the sponge, cloth, or a suede brush to softly scrub the stain and the nearby area. Allow it to dry and assess the results. If the stain remains, repeat the process.
What are the best methods for cleaning suede while preserving its texture?
When caring for suede, handle it delicately. After cleaning and ensuring it is dry, utilize a suede brush or a brush with soft bristles to restore the texture and lift the nap.
Is it necessary to use a suede cleaner for cleaning suede?
You don’t need to purchase a commercial suede cleaner to maintain your suede items. Common household items can be just as effective, and often more gentle, than store-bought solutions.
