How To Clean All Things Suede

Contrary to popular belief, learning how to clean suede is not a difficult feat. The fabric just needs a little more TLC in order to remove the stain than others. Whether you've stepped in a puddle or spilled guacamole (speaking from personal experience), there is a way to get that pesky stain out without ruining your clothing — or spending loads of cash at the dry cleaner.

Suede is a very delicate fabric when it comes to staining, so you do need to take precautions. It's always best to prep the fabric before wearing it to ensure cleanup will be a breeze before that red wine even gets into your hand. My favorite way to do this is by spraying the item with a suede protectant. These sprays work by sealing the fabric, which will repel any moisture that the item may come in contact with. It's great for those who want to keep their suede looking fresher for longer. However, accidents do happen. Keep your suede looking immaculate by knowing how to clean it properly. Whether it's a scuff, a stain, or a smudge, there are a few tried and true ways to clean your beloved suede pieces.

1. Brush Your Shoes

If you notice any dirt collecting on your suede fabrics, brush it out using a suede brush or a firm toothbrush. Make sure to swipe the brush briskly in order to remove the dirt properly. In the video above, the shoemaker goes into detail on how to best remove dry dirt from suede shoes.

2. Use A Pencil

Scuffs and marks can make your suede pieces look old and used. Remove these marks by using the eraser of a pencil. Buff the eraser into the scuff, and watch the mark disappear!

3. Grab A Nail File

Nail files are another great tool for removing scuff marks from suede. Take the nail file, and buff the fabric in a single direction.

4. Towel Dry

If your suede gets wet, then make sure to dry the fabric with a soft towel. Apply pressure in order to soak up most of the moisture. If you're scared that the item may fall flat while drying, stuff the piece with tissues in order for it to maintain it's shape. Don't use any heat to quicken the drying time as it can worsen the look of the stain.

5. Try Vinegar

If a dark liquid stains your suede, then you need to tackle it immediately. Obviously, the longer the stain sits, the harder it will be to remove. For dark stains, apply a paper towel to soak up some of the liquid. Next, blot the stain with a towel dampened with white vinegar, and allow to air dry.

Don't live in fear of staining your suede. Be ahead of the game by knowing how to tackle any sticky suede situation before it happens.

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Images: expertvillage, Pose, Laura Lee/ YouTube