Care guides|October 2024

How to care for suede

Suede is crafted from the underside of leather hides, offering a soft, fuzzy finish. Due to its delicate nature, it is important to properly care for your suede products to extend their lifespan.

Handling suede 

 

  • Given its absorbent quality, choose to wear your suede items in dry weather conditions to protect them from stains caused by water droplets.  

  • If exposure to rain occurs, allow the suede to dry completely, then gently brush away any spots with a suede brush to restore its appearance. 

  • The short nap of suede makes it prone to picking up and trapping dirt. To maintain the beauty of suede for years to come, it's essential to prioritise preventative care and take immediate action when necessary.  

  • Avoid using the same suede item every day to allow it to breathe and maintain its texture. 

  • Regularly apply a waterproofing spray to protect your suede from the elements. Before and after spraying, carefully brush the material’s surface. 

 

Cleaning suede 

 

  • Regularly use a dedicated suede brush or a soft, clean toothbrush to remove surface dirt and dust. Always brush in one direction. 

  • For small, dry stains, use a suede eraser or a clean pencil eraser to gently rub the area. 

  • In the case of mud, allow it to dry overnight before brushing it off. Any remaining dirt can be wiped away with a clean, damp cloth or removed using a suede eraser. 

  • For a deeper clean, use a specialised suede cleaner according to the product's instructions. 

  • If the suede gets wet, blot the area with a dry cloth and let it dry naturally. Once dry, use a suede brush to restore the nap. 

  • For tough stains or overall cleaning, consider taking your suede item to a professional cleaner experienced with suede. 

     

Storing suede 

 

  • Store suede items in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources to prevent fading and drying out. 

  • Use a breathable fabric cover, such as a cotton bag, to protect them from dust without trapping moisture. 

  • Use shoe trees for suede shoes and stuff leather bags with tissue paper to help maintain their shape. 

  • Prolonged exposure to sunlight can fade the colour of suede. 

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