Natural suede leather jackets are soft, sumptuous, and typically extremely expensive; yet, they have a fuzzy surface quality that attracts dust and absorbs stains. Genuine suede products should be thoroughly cleaned by a professional dry cleaner who specialises in leather maintenance.
However, simple cleaning with a suede brush can be done at home, and you may be able to tackle some minor stains yourself, using procedures according to the type of stain.
So, how to clean a suede jacket? Here are the techniques you need to know.
Understanding Suede and Faux Leather
The underside of animal hides gives suede its distinctively velvety texture. It is extremely vulnerable to water, oil, and physical abrasion. However, because fake leather is composed of synthetic materials that are intended to resemble real leather in both appearance and feel, it is more resilient and easier to maintain.
Unlike synthetic or faux leather, suede requires special care. While faux leather can often be wiped clean with a damp cloth and mild soap, suede demands a gentler, more precise approach to avoid damage and preserve its unique texture.
Prepare Before Cleaning: Tools and Products You Need
When you are set for cleaning leather jackets, whether suede jackets or others, you need to be prepared with the right tools and the best products.
- Suede brush or soft-bristled toothbrush
- White cloth or microfiber cloth
- Suede eraser
- White vinegar or rubbing alcohol
- Cornstarch or talcum powder (for oil stains)
- Suede protector spray
- Mild soap and water (for how to clean faux leather areas)
Look for products made especially for suede and nubuck when purchasing a suede jacket cleaner to prevent discoloration or damage to the texture.
Step-by-Step: How to Clean a Suede Leather Jacket at Home
No idea where to begin cleaning? Let us help you with it:
- Pre-Clean Inspection
Check the women’s or men’s leather motorcycle jackets you intend to clean before using any water or cleaner. For manufacturer recommendations, see the care label. To make sure a cleaning method won't change the texture or color, test it on a small, hidden area.
- Brushing Off Surface Dirt
Dust and loose dirt can be carefully removed with a suede brush or a soft-bristled brush. To lift the nap without causing harm to the fibers, always brush in the same direction. Maintaining suede's smooth, matte finish requires this step.
- Spot Cleaning Small Stains
So, how to spot clean a suede jacket? Use rubbing alcohol or white vinegar to lightly moisten a clean cloth in order to spot clean a suede jacket. Use tiny circular motions to dab the stain rather than rub it. To restore the nap, let the area air dry completely before brushing.
For how to clean a suede jacket at home, this technique is effective for cleaning salt stains, small water stains, and other surface-level imperfections on suede jackets.
- Oil or Grease Stains
Cover the stain with a thick layer of cornstarch or talc and leave it overnight. Without causing any harm to the fabric, these powders absorb the oil. Gently brush the residue off in the morning.
- Using a Suede Eraser for Scuffs
Apply light pressure to a suede eraser to remove scuffs or dark marks. When it comes to smoothing out high-friction areas like elbows or cuffs, these erasers are particularly helpful.
- Deodorizing the Jacket
Hang the jacket for several hours in a well-ventilated area to get rid of odors. To get rid of more stubborn smells or remove odor from leather, put it in an open container with baking soda and leave it there overnight.
- Faux Leather Accents
Mixed materials are used in some jackets. When addressing how to clean faux leather, use a cloth soaked in a solution of warm water and a drop of mild soap when cleaning imitation leather. Gently wipe, then pat dry with a gentle towel.
If you want to go a little further, find ways to soften leather jackets, too.
Professional Cleaning and What to Avoid
Most small problems can be fixed at home, but large stains or heavily worn jackets might need to be cleaned by a professional. When a suede jacket is noticeably stained beyond surface cleaning, or once a year, it is recommended to dry clean the suede jacket.
Steer clear of machine washing at all costs. If you're wondering how to clean a suede coat, the answer is no. Both real and imitation suede materials can sustain irreparable damage from machine washing. Similarly, steam cleaning is not advised.
In response to the frequently asked question, can you steam suede? Yes, but know that it should be done by a professional, as heat and moisture can cause the fabric to harden, warp, or shrink.
Care Tips: How to Maintain a Suede Jacket
Yes, cleaning is important. But the best approach is to maintain it in a way that it remains in good shape for life.
Here's how to care for a suede jacket:
- To prevent stains in the future, use a suede protector spray.
- Avoid using plastic bags that retain moisture and instead store them in a cool, dry location.
- To preserve texture and get rid of small dirt, brush frequently.
- Stay out of the rain and snow; if the jacket gets wet, wipe it off with a fresh towel and let it air dry.
The secret to avoiding discoloration and cracking of imitation materials is to clean them gently and consistently. But in case your jacket has grown mold, learn about leather mold removal methods here.
Conclusion
Caring for a suede jacket requires the proper techniques and tools to keep it looking fresh and lasting longer. Whether you're brushing off dust, removing oil stains, or learning how to clean faux leather accents, proper care makes a noticeable difference.
For long-term maintenance, always use high-quality leather conditioners to keep the material soft and protected. And when in doubt, trust professionals like Daniel Smart MFG, known for providing top-tier motorcycle gear and leather care essentials.
With regular cleaning and a little attention, your suede or leather jacket can remain a timeless piece in your wardrobe for years to come.
FAQs:
- Can you clean a suede jacket at home without damaging it?
Yes. The best chance of success is to hand wash leather jackets in cool water with a light detergent. Rinse the jacket well, but don't wring it out. Instead, use a towel to absorb as much water as possible before allowing it to dry naturally. Suede cleaners are widely accessible in the commercial market.
- How to Clean a Suede Leather Jacket at Home
A specialized suede cleaning kit is the best suede cleaner for jackets. Select the stain removal kit made especially to get rid of stains without causing any harm to the material.
- Is it safe to steam clean a suede jacket?
Yes, but it is important to avoid wetting the suede or applying heat directly to the surface during the steaming process because this will dilate the pores in the leather and enable the removal of dirt and bacteria.
- How do you remove stains from a suede leather jacket?
For persistent stains, the best way to clean is with clear alcohol, such as rubbing alcohol (isopropyl alcohol) or vodka. Diluted detergent is also effective here; simply add one teaspoon to a mug of water. Take a clean sponge and apply cleaner to the fabric.
- Can you put a suede jacket in the washing machine?
No, you should avoid machine cleaning suede items since they may develop water stains. Instead, spot clean suede, have it dry cleaned, or clean it by hand. Then, how to wash a suede jacket? Try using a suede brush and a suede-specific cleaner, along with the above methods.
- How often should you clean a suede jacket?
If you trust a dry cleaner or know how to clean it correctly, you should have your outerwear cleaned once or twice a year, depending on how frequently you wear each piece.