How to Clean and Care for Your Suede Furniture

How to Clean and Care for Your Suede Furniture

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Understanding Suede

Suede is a type of leather that has been treated to create a soft, velvety texture. It is often made from the underside of animal hide, which gives it a distinctive feel. While suede is a durable material, its delicate texture and porous nature make it susceptible to dirt, moisture, and stains. It’s essential to treat suede furniture with extra care to keep it looking as good as new.

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Basic Suede Furniture Care

Before diving into the cleaning process, it’s important to understand the basic steps to take to care for your suede furniture on a day-to-day basis:

1. Protect from Direct Sunlight: Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can cause the suede to fade and lose its rich colour. Place your suede furniture in areas that are not directly under sunlight, or use curtains and blinds to shield the fabric from UV rays.
2. Use a Fabric Protector: Consider applying a suede or fabric protector spray to your furniture. These sprays create a protective layer over the material, helping to repel water, dirt, and stains. Always test the spray on a hidden area first to ensure it doesn’t discolour the fabric.
3. Avoid Eating and Drinking Near Suede: Suede is highly susceptible to stains from food and beverages. Try to avoid eating or drinking near your suede furniture, or use protective covers to safeguard against accidental spills.
4. Keep Pets Away: If you have pets, especially those with claws, it’s advisable to keep them off your suede furniture. Pet hair, dirt, and scratches can damage the material and affect its appearance.

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How to Clean Suede Furniture

Even with the best preventative measures, your suede furniture will likely require cleaning from time to time. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to clean and maintain your suede furniture:

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1. Regularly Brush the Suede

Suede can easily become matted or develop unsightly marks. Regular brushing is essential to maintain its softness and smooth texture. Use a soft-bristled brush designed for suede or a suede-specific cleaning brush. Gently brush the surface of the fabric in one direction to lift the pile (the soft fibres) and remove any dust or debris. This will also help to keep the fabric looking fresh and prevent dirt from settling into the fibres.

2. Remove Dust and Debris with a Vacuum

For routine cleaning, it’s best to use a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment. Lightly run the vacuum over the suede furniture to remove loose dirt, dust, and pet hair. Be sure to avoid pressing too hard on the fabric, as this can leave marks or damage the material. Use the hose attachment with a soft nozzle to prevent any abrasions.

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3. Treating Spills and Stains

Spills are inevitable, but it’s important to act quickly to prevent permanent stains. Here’s how to handle different types of spills:

• Liquid Spills: For liquids such as water, juice, or wine, blot the stain immediately with a clean, dry cloth or paper towel. Avoid rubbing, as this can push the liquid further into the suede. If necessary, lightly dampen a cloth with water and blot again to lift the stain. Allow the area to air dry naturally, then brush with a suede brush to restore the texture.
• Oil or Grease Spills: For greasy stains, use a small amount of cornflour or talcum powder to absorb the excess oil. Sprinkle the powder over the stain and let it sit for a few hours. Once the powder has absorbed the oil, gently brush it away with a soft-bristled brush. If the stain persists, you may need to consult a professional cleaner.
• Ink Stains: Ink stains can be tricky to remove, but using a suede eraser or a pencil eraser can help. Gently rub the eraser over the ink mark until it starts to lift. Avoid using liquid cleaners on ink stains, as they can spread the stain further.
• Food Stains: For food stains, first remove any solid debris with a spoon or dull knife. Afterward, blot the area with a clean cloth to absorb any moisture. If necessary, use a suede cleaner designed for food stains and follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.

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4. Deep Cleaning with a Suede Cleaner

If your suede furniture has accumulated stubborn stains or dirt, it may require a deep clean. A specialised suede cleaner can effectively remove tough stains without damaging the material. Here’s how to use it:

• Test in an Inconspicuous Area: Before applying any cleaning product to the entire piece of furniture, test it on a small, hidden area of the fabric to ensure it won’t cause discolouration or damage.
• Apply the Cleaner: Follow the instructions on the cleaner, and apply it using a soft cloth or sponge. Be sure not to saturate the fabric—suede should never be soaked with water or cleaning products. Gently rub the cleaner into the stain or dirt, and then blot with a clean cloth.
• Dry and Brush: Allow the furniture to air dry completely before using a suede brush to restore its texture. Be patient and avoid using a hairdryer or direct heat, as this can cause the suede to become stiff or lose its softness.

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5. Professional Cleaning

If your suede furniture has accumulated significant staining or damage, or if you feel uncomfortable cleaning it yourself, it may be time to consult a professional upholstery cleaner. Experts have the tools and expertise to deep clean suede without causing any harm to the fabric, ensuring that your furniture remains in pristine condition.

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Final Thoughts

Suede furniture adds an elegant touch to any room, but it requires careful maintenance to ensure it remains beautiful and comfortable. Regular brushing, vacuuming, and prompt treatment of spills can go a long way in keeping your furniture looking its best. By following the above tips and taking extra care when cleaning and maintaining suede, you can enjoy your luxurious pieces for many years to come. Always remember that, while suede is durable, it benefits from gentle and consistent care to maintain its softness and sophisticated appearance.