Cleaning the suede is not easy, but it is possible. To get your suede jacket back as good as new, use a chamois brush to scrub and remove dirt and dust and, if necessary, a chamois eraser to remove stubborn stains. If that's still not enough, you can try using vinegar, cornstarch (if it's a grease stain) or water to get rid of the streaks left by this same substance. If none of these methods work, take her to a specialized laundromat for washing.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: General Cleaning
Step 1. Use a chamois brush
Wipe it over the entire surface of the jacket. The bristles will lift the fur, improving the overall appearance of the suede, while at the same time detaching and removing dust and dirt. Raising the fibers with the brush will also facilitate the removal of dirt that has penetrated deeply.
Step 2. Brush the visibly soiled areas again
After removing the dust on the surface, there may still be some dirt or stains on the suede. Scrub the stained areas with the brush applying slightly more pressure. Move the brush back and forth to remove dirt from the fibers.
Don't rub too hard. Suede is delicate, so you can easily damage it
Step 3. Purchase a protective chamois spray
It is a waterproofing product that will help you keep your jacket clean for longer and protect it from certain liquids that could stain it, such as oil and water. Unfortunately, the spray cannot protect the suede from substances that are generally more difficult to remove from fabrics, including for example blood, ink or mud. Nonetheless, it is very useful to avoid staining the jacket during normal daily activities.
You can buy this type of protective spray online or at stores that sell suede footwear or clothing
Method 2 of 3: Remove Hard Stains
Step 1. Try using a chamois cleaning eraser
Gently rub it into the stain. It may take some time to get rid of the dirt completely, but be patient and in most cases you will get the desired result.
- You will likely need to run the suede brush over the rubber-treated area after removing the stain to revive the fabric.
- If you don't have an eraser designed specifically for cleaning suede, you can use the one you use to erase pencil marks.
- You can purchase a suede cleaning eraser online or at stores that sell suede footwear or clothing.
Step 2. Make a cleaning solution with water and vinegar
Mix one part of white vinegar with two parts of water. Use a soft cloth or a cotton swab or pad to remove the stain. Moisten it with the solution you just created and pass it very gently on the dirt, taking care not to press too hard.
- The fabric or cotton should not be soaked, just damp.
- Let the area dry completely before putting on the jacket again.
Step 3. Take the jacket to a dry cleaner
If you have not been able to remove the dirt in any way, the best thing to do is to consult a professional. If possible, take the jacket to a laundry that specializes in cleaning leather and suede. They will most likely be able to remove the stains.
Method 3 of 3: Treating Specific Substance Stains
Step 1. Blot the stain if it is a liquid substance
If you've accidentally spilled liquid on your suede jacket, use a clean towel or cloth to absorb as much liquid as possible. Try to intervene in a timely manner. Be careful not to push the liquid deeper into the fibers. Rather, dab it very gently to absorb it.
- After absorbing the liquid, use a brush or chamois eraser to remove the stain.
- If you don't take action right away, the liquid will penetrate and spread through the fabric.
Step 2. Eliminate water marks by moistening the jacket
While you shouldn't use water to remove stains from suede, it can be helpful in getting rid of its own streaks. Dampen a soft cloth with water and wipe the surface of the jacket or spray it on the fabric using a spray bottle. In both cases, make sure it is only slightly and evenly moist.
- Absorb the water using a sponge or paper towel.
- When you're done, brush the jacket to liven up the suede.
Step 3. Use cornstarch to remove grease or sweat stains
Sweating from the neck or wrists could stain your suede jacket. You can try to remove stains by sprinkling them with a thin layer of starch or cornmeal. Wait until the next morning before brushing off the dust.
