Suede leather jackets are the classic pieces that can fit with any style. The best suede jackets truly stand out for their premium quality and timeless appeal. To maintain their class, cleaning and caring become essential. There are so many ways to clean the suede leather jacket including DIYs and professional cleaning. But knowing how to clean a suede leather jacket properly can save your jacket from ruining. Therefore, this guide provides insight into simple methods and care tips to keep your suede jackets shining all year long.
Understanding Suede Leather Jacket
It’s important to know about suede jackets before learning how to clean them. A suede leather jacket features a napped finish with a soft and velvety texture. It is crafted from the underside of animal hides, making it more delicate than full-grain leather. Because of this, suede requires special care to prevent damage and extend the life of the garment.
Easy Ways to Clean a Suede Leather Jacket
Spraying rubbing alcohol onto stains and rubbing with a sponge is also an effective method of stain removal. Whichever method you use, be gentle and patient and use a soft brush to buff up the nap afterwards. Prompt and proper stain treatment is the very foundation of suede care. Let's have a look at some common complaints:
Dry Stains
- Blotting: Gently blot the stain with a clean, dry cloth to absorb any excess material.
- Brushing: Use a suede brush to lightly scrub the stained area, following the nap's direction.
- Eraser: For persistent marks, gently rub a suede eraser over the stain.
Wet Stains
- Immediate Action: Blot away as much moisture as possible. Do not rub.
- Drying: Let the jacket air-dry naturally in a proper way. Do not place it near any direct sources of heat.
- Brushing: When dry, restore the nap with a gentle brush.
Oil or Grease Stains
- Absorption: Sprinkle cornstarch or talcum powder over the stain and let it sit overnight to absorb.
- Removal: Brush the powder off with the suede brush the next day.
Tools to Safely Clean Suede Jacket
Now that we have eliminated the myths surrounding potentially dangerous home remedies, let us discuss the rest, established by experience as risk-free upkeep tools for your suede jacket.
Double-Sided Brush
This is one of the most effective tools for cleaning suede. One side has firm bristles for loosening and removing dirt, while the softer side helps smooth the nap and remove any light dust. Use it regularly after wearing your jacket to keep it looking fresh. This alone can extend your jacket's life and minimize the need for deep cleaning.
Tissue Paper or Paper Towels
These are handy for blotting any spills. Remember-never rub! Gently dab the area instead. Rubbing can spread the stain and flatten the suede's nap, making things worse. Always press gently and allow the paper to absorb the liquid fully.
Nail File
Surprised? A clean, unused nail file can be quite effective in scraping off stubborn spots. Use light hand movements and gently file away any dirt that's clinging to the surface. Just be sure not to pressure too much-sued is porous and delicate.
Suede Eraser or White Pencil Eraser
If you do not have a suede eraser, it is a great alternative to use a simple white pencil eraser. Avoid colored ones, as they may leave stains. Rub the stain gently with an eraser until it disappears, then quickly brush over it.
Toothbrush
A toothbrush can be a miracle for targeted spot cleaning. Its bristles are just stiff enough to be able to clean a small area without damaging the fabric. Use it gently and pair it with a dry clean method or eraser so you can get the very best results.
Sponge Scrub
This is the best method for cleaning stubborn spills, but without soaking the fabric entirely. Slightly dampen the sponge (never wet) and, using soft, circular motion, slide dirt. This is a much better substitute for tissues or towels when you have to use a little more pressure.
Suede Protector Spray
Every owner with a suede jacket should be equipped with a suede jacket protector spray such as this one. It creates an invisible barrier against water, oils, and dirt. This should be sprayed on every few months, regardless of how dirty or clean the jacket looks. It is a preventive measure against major hassles in the future and also acts as an excellent backup to professional maintenance services designed specifically for suede jackets.
How to Wash a Suede Jacket
Spot cleaning is actually the preferred method of keeping up with the cleaning of a suede jacket; it is much better left for those times when you need a more vigorous cleaning:
- Hand Washing: Fill a basin with cool water and add a small amount of mild detergent. Gently agitate the water to create suds. Submerge a soft cloth into the solution and wring out excess water. Lightly wipe the jacket's surface, focusing on soiled areas.
- Rinsing: Dampen another cloth with clean water and wipe away any soap residue.
- Drying: Pat the jacket with a dry towel to remove excess moisture and hang it on a padded hanger to air dry.
Professional Suede Jacket Cleaning
If your suede jacket has stubborn stains or appears in need of deep cleaning, you need to go the professional way. Professionals always know how to use gears designed for the delicate nature of suede so as not to damage it.
Dry Clean Suede Jacket: When and Why
Knowing when the suede jacket will go for dry cleaning is essential:
- Old Unsightly Stains: If home remedies have not worked in any way, it's time for professional cleaning.
- Smells: The professionals are able to get rid of smells that are just impossible to remove at home.
- End-of-Season Cleaning: Having your jacket professionally cleaned before storing it for the season ensures it's ready for future use.
Suede Jacket Maintenance Tips
- Avoid Water Exposure: Suede is highly susceptible to water damage. Always check the weather before wearing your jacket and avoid wearing it in rainy conditions.
- Rotate Wear: Regularly rotating your suede jacket with other outerwear can prevent overuse and prolong its lifespan.
- Immediate Attention: Address spills and stains promptly to prevent them from setting.
FAQs
Can you machine wash a suede jacket?
No, if you immerse your suede jacket in the washing machine, it will shrink. However, you will probably ruin the garment in the process.
How to clean a suede coat?
To clean your suede leather coat, just give it a light brushing after wearing to keep it fresh. For actual stains, use a suede eraser (like a pencil eraser but for suede).
How can I clean a suede jacket at home?
To clean a suede jacket at home, gently brush away loose dirt, then use a suede eraser or suede cleaner to remove stains, and finally, restore the texture with a suede brush.
