Suede Jacket Care: 7 Essential Tips to Safely Clean Your Suede Jacket at Home

Keeping your suede jacket clean may be a formidable task, but once you use the right approach and tools, it will be a lot easier than it ever was. Generally speaking, suede jackets are quite luxurious and stylish and need a little extra care over other types of jackets. While most sources would advise seeking professional dry cleaning, there is indeed a way to clean suede safely on your own at home and save some valuable time and money in the process. The following guide walks you through some key tips and common mistakes to avoid so that you might keep your suede jacket fresh and well taken care of.

Why Suede Jacket Require Special Care

Suede is quite delicate and, thus, very much prone to stains and other water-related damages. Due to the presence of these reasons, suede has usually been cleaned quite a little. Obviously, you can’t simply put the suede shearling jacket in the washer or scrub it with soap and water. Such harsh treatment will do permanent damage, and needed techniques will have to be followed for preserving the quality of this jacket.

Common Myths About Cleaning Suede Jacket

Before diving into the right ways to clean suede jacket, let’s look at some common cleaning myths and why you should avoid them:

1. Vinegar and Water Mixture: You might see advice suggesting a mix of vinegar and water to clean suede jacket. While vinegar can remove some stains, suede is sensitive to moisture, and water exposure can leave unwanted marks. It’s better to avoid this unless you have no other options.
2. Cornstarch for Oil Stains: Many suggest applying cornstarch or talcum powder on oil stains to absorb the grease. This can be effective for light stains, but it doesn’t always work, especially on deeply embedded oils. A professional cleaner is often a safer bet for stubborn oil stains.
3. Steam Cleaning: Using steam to lift stains is popular with regular fabrics, but it’s not ideal for suede. Excess moisture can damage the texture, making the suede bomber jacket stiff or causing discoloration. It’s best to avoid this unless you’re comfortable with the risks.

Home-Based Suede Jacket Cleaning Tools

If you want to clean your suede jacket yourself, here are some tried-and-tested tools you likely have around the house. These will help you remove minor stains and freshen up your suede jacket without using a washing machine or damaging it:

1. Double-Sided Suede Brush
   A double-sided suede brush is essential for cleaning suede jacket. One side has thick, firm bristles to handle dirt and dust, while the softer side can finish up by removing fine particles. Brush gently in one direction to avoid material damage.
2. Paper Towel or Tissue
   If a spill occurs on your suede jacket, quickly blot it with a paper towel or tissue. Blotting absorbs the liquid without forcing it deeper into the suede, which could happen with rubbing and spread the stain or damage the surface. Remember to blot gently without pressing hard.
3. Nail File
   Nail files work well for minor scuffs or stubborn dirt. Lightly run a nail file over dirt and marks; this works best on small areas, as too much friction can damage the suede’s texture.
4. Suede Eraser or White Pencil Eraser
   A suede eraser can be invaluable for minor stains, but a white pencil eraser will work as a substitute. Avoid colored erasers, which may transfer color to the jacket. Gently rub in a circular motion to gradually lift the stain.
5. Toothbrush
   A toothbrush allows you to reach specific spots for gentle spot-cleaning. Lightly brush the stained area to remove dirt, avoiding pressing too hard to prevent wear on the suede.
6. Sponge Scrub
   If paper towels can’t absorb the stains, a sponge scrub may help. It provides slight friction without being too harsh. Dab the stained area to lift liquid or dirt without soaking the suede in water.
7. Suede Protector Spray
   More about prevention than cleaning, a suede protector spray helps form a protective layer over your jacket to reduce the chance of damage or stains. Apply every few months for optimal protection.

How To Clean Suede Jacket At Home: A Step By Step Guide

Follow these steps to safely clean your suede leather jacket and maintain its look and feel:

1. Start with a Brush: If there’s loose dirt or dust, use the suede brush to get rid of it. Brushing in the same direction keeps the suede’s texture and also prevents the fibers from becoming tangled.
2. Blot Fresh Stains: For spills fresh, blot the area with a paper towel and absorb as much liquid as you can. Try not to rub any further.
3. Address Dry Stains with an Eraser: For dry stains, use a suede or white pencil eraser. Rub the stain gently in circular motions, being gentle so you don’t rub too hard.
4. Try a Nail File on Scuffs: In small scuff case use a nail file to lightly rub the area and get rid of any dirt or discoloration. Reduce your movements as much as possible to avoid wearing out the material.
5. Spot Clean with a Toothbrush: If you need to address specific areas, you can use a toothbrush. Keep brushing in circular motions gently until the stain lifts.
6. Apply Suede Protector Spray: After coating your jacket of being clean sprayed with a suede protect spray to your jacket to prevent stain and spills. A preventive measure that goes a long way to keeping your jacket intact.

Frequently Asked Questions: How to Clean and Care for a Suede Jacket

Can I Put a Suede Trucker Jacket in the Washing Machine?

Suede jacket is not something that should be going in the washing machine as it could be seriously damaged. It is much safer to get professional dry cleaning or gentle at home cleaning.

When Should You Use a Spray Suede Protector?

Suede protector spray goes on well and every four months is fine. It protects the fabric from stains, and from water damage.

What’s the Best Way to Remove Oil Stains?

You can use cornstarch or talcum powder. Apply a bit to the stain, let it sit overnight, and then brush it off. For tougher stains, it’s best to consult a professional cleaner.

How Much Does Professional Suede Cleaning Cost?

Although prices vary, that special care suede requires, reputable dry cleaners might charge a little more. Professional cleaning also helps to prolong the life your jacket.

Conclusion

Cleaning your suede jacket at home is a great way to save a little money and keep looking good, but only if you’re doing it correctly. It all comes down to the simple things like a suede brush, paper towels and protector spray, that will make a huge difference in how long your jacket lasts. Stick with the old, it might seem tempting to try some DIY tricks but these can be risky. But if you get in a situation when your jacket needs a tougher clean or is simply not cleanable by yourself, you can still take it to a professional dry cleaner. By following this tips, these should help keep your jacket in great conditions so that you can feel the luxury of suede without fear.