Suede furniture adds luxury and warmth to any room, but it requires special care to maintain its soft texture and rich appearance. Many homeowners avoid suede because they think it’s too difficult to clean. The truth is simpler than you might expect.
This guide provides step-by-step instructions for cleaning suede furniture safely and effectively. You’ll learn how to handle spills, remove stains, and maintain your furniture’s beauty for years to come.
Whether you’re dealing with everyday dirt or stubborn stains, these proven methods will help you restore your suede furniture to its original condition.
Essential Tools for Cleaning Suede Furniture
Before you start cleaning, gather the right tools. Using the wrong materials can permanently damage suede.
Basic cleaning supplies:
- Suede brush (soft-bristled)
- White vinegar
- Clean, dry towels
- Pencil eraser
- Vacuum with upholstery attachment
For stubborn stains:
- Suede cleaner (commercial)
- Rubbing alcohol
- Cornstarch or baking soda
Having these tools ready makes the cleaning process faster and more effective.
Daily Maintenance for Suede Furniture
Regular maintenance prevents dirt buildup and extends the life of your furniture. Simple daily habits make deep cleaning unnecessary.
Brush regularly: Use a suede brush to restore the nap after each use. Brush in one direction to maintain the texture.
Vacuum weekly: Use your vacuum’s upholstery attachment to remove loose dirt and debris. Use gentle suction to prevent damage to the fabric.
Rotate cushions: This prevents uneven wear and maintains a consistent appearance across all surfaces.
Keep away from direct sunlight: UV rays can fade and make suede brittle over time.
These simple steps take minutes but save hours of intensive cleaning later.
How to Remove Fresh Spills from Suede
Act quickly when spills happen. Fresh spills are much easier to clean than set-in stains.
Step 1: Blot the spill immediately with a clean, dry towel. Don’t rub or scrub—this pushes liquid deeper into the fibers.
Step 2: If the spill is still wet, sprinkle cornstarch or baking soda over the area. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes to absorb moisture.
Step 3: Vacuum up the powder using your upholstery attachment.
Step 4: Once the area is completely dry, brush it with your suede brush to restore the texture.
Quick action prevents permanent staining and keeps your furniture looking new.
Removing Common Stains from Suede Furniture
Different stains require different approaches. Here’s how to handle the most common problems.
Water Stains
Water stains appear as dark spots or rings on suede. Remove them with this simple method:
- Dampen a clean cloth with distilled water.
- Gently blot the entire stained area—not just the ring.
- Let the area dry completely.
- Brush with a suede brush to restore texture.
Grease and Oil Stains
These stains need immediate attention to prevent permanent damage.
- Sprinkle cornstarch over the stain immediately.
- Let it sit overnight to absorb the oil.
- Vacuum up the powder.
- If the stain remains, apply a small amount of rubbing alcohol to a clean cloth.
- Gently dab the stain—don’t rub
- Let it dry and then brush to restore its texture.
Ink Stains
Ink stains can be challenging, but they are removable with patience and persistence.
- Use a pencil eraser to gently lift fresh ink.
- For set-in stains, apply white vinegar to a clean cloth.
- Dab the stain gently.
- Let dry completely and brush.
Food Stains
Most food stains respond well to gentle cleaning.
- Remove solid debris carefully.
- Blot liquid with a dry towel
- Apply a small amount of white vinegar to a cloth.
- Dab the stain gently.
- Let it dry and then brush to restore its texture.
Deep Cleaning Suede Furniture
Sometimes regular maintenance isn’t enough. Deep cleaning refreshes your furniture and removes embedded dirt.
When to deep clean:
- Furniture looks dull or flat.
- Regular brushing doesn’t restore texture.
- Multiple stains need treatment.
- Furniture has an odor.
Deep cleaning process:
- Vacuum thoroughly: Remove all loose dirt and debris from crevices and seams.
- Steam treatment: Hold a steam iron 6 inches above the surface. The steam helps lift the nap. Never let the iron come into contact with the suede.
- Brush while damp: Use your suede brush while the fabric is slightly damp from steam. This restores the texture effectively.
- Apply commercial cleaner: If necessary, use a suede-specific cleaner according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Final brushing: Once the surface is completely dry, brush it to restore a uniform texture.
Deep cleaning your suede furniture twice a year helps keep it looking its best.
What to Avoid When Cleaning Suede
Certain cleaning methods can permanently damage suede. Avoid these common mistakes:
Never use water-based cleaners: Standard upholstery cleaners often contain excessive moisture, which can lead to water stains.
Avoid using heat to dry: Hair dryers, heaters, or direct sunlight can cause suede to crack and fade.
Avoid harsh chemicals: Bleach, ammonia, and strong detergents damage suede fibers.
Avoid scrubbing aggressively, as this can flatten the nap and cause permanent damage.
Skip fabric softeners: These products coat the fibers, ruining the texture.
Following these guidelines protects your investment and maintains the appearance of your furniture.
Professional vs. DIY Cleaning
Sometimes professional cleaning is the better choice. Here’s when to call the experts:
Call professionals for:
- Large or multiple stains
- Expensive or antique pieces
- Stains you’ve tried to remove unsuccessfully
- Annual deep cleaning maintenance
DIY cleaning works for:
- Fresh spills and minor stains
- Regular maintenance
- Small, localized problems
- Budget-conscious cleaning
Professional cleaning costs more upfront, but can save money by preventing permanent damage.
Protecting Your Investment
Prevention is always better than cleaning. These protective measures extend your furniture’s life:
Apply suede protector spray: Use products designed specifically for suede. Reapply every 6-12 months.
Use furniture covers: Protect high-use areas with washable covers.
Control humidity: Maintain indoor humidity levels between 30% and 50% to prevent the growth of mold and mildew.
Professional treatment: Consider annual professional cleaning and protection treatment.
These steps help preserve your furniture’s beauty and reduce the need for frequent cleaning.
Keep Your Suede Furniture Looking New
Cleaning suede furniture doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. Regular maintenance, quick spill response, and proper cleaning techniques keep your furniture beautiful for years.
Start with daily brushing and weekly vacuuming. Handle spills immediately using the methods outlined above. For deeper cleaning needs, follow the step-by-step process or contact professionals for valuable pieces.
Your suede furniture represents a significant investment. Proper care protects that investment and ensures you enjoy its luxury and comfort for many years to come.
Take action today—gather your cleaning supplies and start with a gentle brushing. Your furniture will thank you. Once to find the perfect one for any occasion.
