Suede leather furniture adds a touch of luxury and elegance to any room. However, its delicate nature requires specific care and maintenance to keep it looking its best. Unlike other types of leather, suede is more prone to stains and damage due to its soft, porous texture.
This guide on how to clean suede leather furniture will provide you with practical tips and techniques to effectively clean and preserve your suede leather furniture, ensuring it remains a beautiful and lasting feature in your home.
Why is It Important to Clean Suede Leather Furniture?
Suede leather furniture, like any other type of upholstery, is exposed to dust, dirt, and spills on a daily basis. Over time, these particles can build up and cause your furniture to look dull and worn out. Additionally, if spills are not attended to promptly, they could leave permanent stains on your suede leather furniture.
Regular cleaning of your suede leather furniture will help remove any surface dirt and maintain its soft texture and vibrant color. It also prevents stains from setting in and damaging the material permanently.
Now that we’ve established the importance of cleaning suede leather furniture let’s dive into some practical cleaning tips.
Materials Needed
Before you start cleaning your suede leather furniture, make sure you have the following materials on hand:
Suede Brush or Soft-bristled Brush:
This will help remove any surface dirt and revive the texture of your suede leather furniture.
White Vinegar:
Known for its cleaning properties, white vinegar is an effective and safe option for cleaning suede leather. It helps remove stains and deodorize the material.
Rubbing Alcohol:
Rubbing alcohol is another great alternative for removing tough stains on suede leather furniture without causing damage to the material.
Soft Cloths or Microfiber Cloth:
These are gentle enough to use on suede leather and will not scratch or damage the material during cleaning.
7 Step-by-step Guide on How to Clean Suede Leather Furniture
Step 1: Vacuum the Furniture
Begin by thoroughly vacuuming your suede leather furniture using a vacuum cleaner equipped with a soft brush attachment. This step is crucial for removing any loose dirt, dust, and debris that have settled on the surface of the suede.
Move the vacuum cleaner gently over the entire piece of furniture, including crevices and seams, to ensure a comprehensive clean. Vacuuming not only helps in removing surface particles but also revives the suede’s texture, making it easier to address any stains or spots in subsequent cleaning steps.
Step 2: Use a Suede Brush or Soft-bristled Brush
After vacuuming, the next step is to use a suede brush or a soft-bristled brush to further clean and restore the texture of your suede leather furniture. Gently brush the surface of the suede in different directions, which helps to lift the nap and remove any remaining dust or dirt particles embedded in the fibers.
Brushing is crucial as it not only cleans the surface but also revitalizes the soft, velvety texture characteristic of suede.
Ensure you brush gently to avoid damaging the delicate material. For tougher spots or matted areas, use a little more pressure, but be careful not to be too harsh. This process will make your furniture look fresher and prepare it for spot cleaning in the subsequent steps.
Step 3: Spot Clean Stains
Stains are inevitable when it comes to suede leather furniture, but with the right approach, they can be removed effectively. For this step, you will need a solution of equal parts white vinegar and water or rubbing alcohol.
Dampen a soft cloth or microfiber cloth with the cleaning solution and gently blot the stained area. Avoid rubbing as this could cause further damage and spread the stain. Continue blotting until the stain is lifted. For tougher stains, you may need to repeat this process several times until the desired results are achieved.
Step 4: Deodorize with White Vinegar
Unpleasant odors can sometimes linger on suede leather furniture, especially if it has absorbed spills or been exposed to smoke or pets.
White vinegar is a fantastic deodorizer and can help neutralize these odors effectively. To deodorize your furniture, lightly dampen a soft cloth or microfiber cloth with white vinegar.
Gently wipe down the surface of your suede leather furniture, ensuring that the cloth is not overly saturated to avoid saturating the suede. Allow the furniture to air dry in a well-ventilated area.
The smell of vinegar will fade as it dries, taking any undesirable odors with it. This method not only freshens up your furniture but also helps maintain its overall cleanliness and longevity.
Step 5: Address Grease Stains
Grease stains are a common occurrence on suede leather furniture, and they can be difficult to remove. To tackle these types of stains, use a small amount of cornstarch or talcum powder and sprinkle it on the affected area. Allow it to sit for a few hours to absorb the grease before brushing it off with a suede brush.
If the stain persists, dampen a cloth with rubbing alcohol and gently dab at the spot until the stain is lifted. Be sure not to oversaturate your furniture as this could damage the material. Once done, let it air dry, and then brush the area with a suede brush.
Step 6: Revive Matted Areas
Over time, the nap of suede leather can become matted or flattened, especially in areas that receive heavy use.
To revive these matted areas, gently rub them with a clean, dry sponge or soft cloth. If the matting is particularly stubborn, you can use a suede brush or a soft-bristled brush, moving it in a circular motion over the affected area. This action will help lift the nap and restore the suede’s soft, velvety texture.
For an extra boost, consider using a suede eraser or a specialty suede restoration kit to gently buff and raise the fibers.
Always test any new product on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure it does not discolor or damage the suede. Once you have brushed and rejuvenated the matted sections, your suede leather furniture should look more uniform and plush, maintaining its luxurious appearance and feel.
Step 7: Regular Maintenance
To keep your suede leather furniture looking its best, it is important to perform regular maintenance. This includes using a suede brush or soft-bristled brush to gently remove any surface dirt and debris at least once a month. Additionally, consider applying a protective suede spray every six months to help repel stains and prolong the life of your furniture.
By following these steps on how to clean suede leather furniture regularly, you can ensure that your suede leather furniture remains clean, fresh, and in excellent condition for years to come.
Remember always to handle the material delicately and avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaning methods. With proper care, your suede leather furniture will continue to be a beautiful and comfortable addition to your home.
Maintaining Suede Furniture Long-Term
Protective Covers and Throws
One effective way to preserve your suede leather furniture in the long term is by using protective covers or throws.
These covers act as a barrier against spills, dirt, and daily wear and tear, helping to maintain the furniture’s pristine condition. Choose covers or throws that are easy to remove and washable, ensuring that you can clean them regularly to prevent any build-up of grime or odors. This simple measure extends the lifespan of your suede furniture and keeps it looking inviting.
Environmental Considerations
Suede leather is sensitive to environmental factors such as sunlight and humidity. Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can cause the suede to fade or become brittle over time. To mitigate this, position your furniture away from windows or use curtains and blinds to filter sunlight.
Additionally, maintaining a stable humidity level in the room prevents the suede from drying out or becoming excessively damp, both of which can damage the material. A humidifier or dehumidifier can be beneficial to regulate the indoor climate according to your local weather conditions.
Regular Inspections
Conduct regular inspections of your suede leather furniture to identify any potential issues early on. Look out for stains, discoloration, or matted areas that may require prompt attention.
Early intervention can prevent minor problems from escalating into significant damage. Schedule a monthly check-up routine where you thoroughly examine and, if necessary, clean and maintain the furniture. By staying proactive, you ensure that your suede remains in excellent shape and retains its luxurious appearance.
Professional Cleaning
Despite regular at-home maintenance, it is advisable to have your suede leather furniture professionally cleaned occasionally. Professional cleaners have the expertise and specialized equipment to deep clean suede without causing damage.
They can effectively remove tough stains, rejuvenate the material, and apply protective treatments that are more durable compared to DIY products. Consider professional cleaning on an annual basis or more frequently if the furniture experiences heavy use.
By incorporating these long-term maintenance strategies into your routine, you can significantly extend the life of your suede leather furniture while keeping it looking fresh and inviting. Remember that delicate handling and consistent care are key to preserving the beauty and comfort of this luxurious material.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I Use Water to Clean Suede Leather Furniture?
A: It is not recommended to use water as it can cause the suede to become stiff and distorted. Instead, opt for gentle cleaning solutions such as white vinegar or rubbing alcohol.
Q: How Often Should I Clean My Suede Leather Furniture?
A: It is recommended to clean your suede leather furniture at least once every three months, with spot cleaning and regular maintenance in between. This will help keep it looking fresh and prevent any deep-set stains from forming.
Q: Can I Use A Steam Cleaner on Suede Leather Furniture?
A: No, steam cleaners are not suitable for use on suede leather furniture as the high heat and moisture can cause damage to the material. Stick to gentle dry cleaning methods instead.
Q: What Should I Do If My Suede Leather Furniture Gets Wet?
A: If your suede leather furniture gets wet, gently blot the excess moisture with a clean, dry cloth. Then, allow it to air dry in a well-ventilated area away from direct heat or sunlight. Once completely dry, use a suede brush to restore the nap.
Conclusion
Maintaining suede leather furniture may seem daunting, but with the right techniques and consistent care, it can remain a luxurious and elegant addition to your home for many years. By following the steps outlined in this guide on how to clean suede leather furniture, you can effectively clean, deodorize, and restore your suede furniture without damaging its delicate fibers.
Regularly vacuuming, brushing, and spot cleaning will keep your furniture looking fresh and vibrant, while tackling specific stains promptly will prevent long-term damage.
Remember to conduct routine maintenance and consider protective treatments to ensure lasting beauty and functionality. With proper care and attention, your suede leather furniture will continue to offer comfort and style, enhancing your living space’s overall aesthetic.
