How to clean suede leather products?

How to clean suede leather products?

How to Care for Suede Leather (Complete Guide)

Suede leather is loved for its velvety texture and natural elegance, but it requires proper care to stay soft, clean, and vibrant. Unlike smooth leather, suede is more porous and can attract dirt, stains, and texture flattening. This guide explains how to care for suede leather using simple, effective methods.

Why Suede Needs Special Care

Suede has an open, fibrous structure that makes it more sensitive to:

  • Dust and dirt

  • Water stains

  • Oils

  • Wear and flattening

  • Colour fading

Regular maintenance keeps your suede items looking refined and extends their lifespan.

Tools You’ll Need

You can maintain suede effectively with a few essential tools:

1. Soft Suede Brush

For removing surface dirt and refreshing the nap.

2. Crepe Brush

To gently lift and soften flattened fibres.

3. Suede Eraser / Rubber Block

For spot-cleaning marks or shiny areas.

4. Gentle Suede Cleaner

A mild, water-based solution suitable for suede and nubuck.

5. Water-Repellent Spray

A non-darkening spray designed for suede protection.

How to Clean & Maintain Suede Leather (Step-by-Step)

1. Start by Brushing the Suede

Crepe Brush

Regular brushing is the foundation of suede care.

  • Use a soft suede brush

  • Brush in multiple directions

  • Apply light, even pressure

This removes dust and restores the natural texture. We enjoy using products such as this brush from Saphir. 

2. Remove Stains With a Suede Eraser

Saphir suede eraser - 'gommadin' | habbot

A suede eraser helps with:

  • Light stains

  • Polished spots

  • Small scuffs

Rub gently and finish by brushing to blend the texture.

3. Deep Clean With a Mild Suede Cleaner

Saphir Médaille d'Or Omni'nettoyant Cleaner (100ml) – Straits Establishment

When your suede looks dull or dirty overall, deep cleaning helps.

How to clean suede:

  1. Apply a small amount of suede cleaner diluted with water

  2. Work gently in circular motions

  3. Avoid soaking the leather

  4. Blot excess moisture with a soft cloth

  5. Allow to air-dry completely

The suede may look darker when wet — this is normal.

4. Let the Suede Dry Naturally

Drying is crucial for maintaining the fibre structure.

Avoid artificial heat:

  • No hairdryers

  • No heaters

  • No direct sunlight

After drying, use a crepe brush to soften the nap and restore the velvety feel.

5. Refresh Colour (Optional)

If the suede appears faded:

  • Use a suede-safe colour refresher spray

  • Apply lightly and evenly

  • Brush after drying

This helps revive dull areas and even out the tone.

6. Protect With a Water-Repellent Spray

Tarrago Nano Protector Spray (250ml) : Amazon.sg: Health, Household and Personal Care

Protection is the key to long-lasting suede.

Use a suede-safe spray to guard against:

  • Water

  • Oil

  • Dirt

  • Everyday wear

Spray evenly from 20–30 cm away and let dry fully.
Reapply every few weeks for best results.

We enjoy using this particular spray from Tarrago. 

Recommended Suede Maintenance Routine

Weekly

  • Brush lightly

  • Remove dust and surface marks

Monthly

  • Refresh waterproof spray

  • Light spot cleaning

Every 3–6 Months

  • Deep clean

  • Optional colour refresh

Extra Tips for Suede Care

  • Store in a cool, dry place

  • Keep items in breathable dust bags

  • Avoid rubbing suede against rough denim

  • Stuff bags or shoes to maintain shape

  • Handle suede with clean, dry hands

Conclusion

With the right techniques and consistent upkeep, suede leather remains soft, clean, and beautifully textured for years. A simple routine of brushing, gentle cleaning, and protection ensures your suede bags, shoes, and accessories stay in excellent condition.

Here at Atelier Yang, we only use full grain suede from reputable tanneries across the world. Contact us to commission a suede leather product today. 

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