Suede Care: Know-How for Dust Removal and Stain Management to Preserve Luxurious Texture

🐑 Symbol of Softness, Suede: Know-How for Dust Removal and Stain Management to Preserve Luxurious Texture

Suede is a material made by thinly processing the inner side of leather to create a soft nap (pile), and it is widely used in shoes, bags, and clothing thanks to its unique luxurious and soft texture. However, suede is vulnerable to water and stains, and easily attracts dust, making management difficult. We share the know-how to protect the suede texture and effectively manage stains.

🔑 Core Principle of Suede Care: Avoid Water and Preserve the Nap

Suede care is all about keeping water away and using dedicated tools to manage the fabric along the 'nap'.

💡 3-Step Suede Care Know-How

1. 💨 Daily Care: Remove Dust and Light Stains with a Dedicated Brush and Eraser

• Dedicated Brush: Use a suede-specific brush or a soft brush to sweep off dust and contaminants in one direction along the nap of the clothes/shoes. (Gently sweeping against the nap direction can raise the pile.)
• Suede Eraser: Lighter marks or sheen caused by friction on shoe toes or corners can be removed by rubbing with a suede-specific eraser. (Regular erasers can damage the fibers.)

2. 💧 Dealing with Heavy Stains: Minimize Water Use and Utilize Dedicated Cleaner

• Oil Stains (Oil, Grease): Sprinkle baking soda or cornstarch on the stain to absorb the oil, then brush it off.
• Water Stains: Water stains on suede create a boundary. You must use a dedicated cleaner or slightly wet a clean cloth and gently dab the entire stain to blend the boundaries, then naturally dry to dilute the water stain.

3. 🛡️ Storage and Protection: Waterproof Spray and Proper Storage

• Waterproof Spray: Applying a suede-specific waterproof spray before going out prevents water and contaminants from penetrating, making daily maintenance much easier.
• Drying: If suede gets wet, it must be natural dried in a shaded, well-ventilated area. (Heat drying deforms the material.)
• Storage: Store in a moisture-free area in the closet or shoe rack, and use a non-woven fabric cover to prevent dust from clinging.

Suede is challenging to maintain, but regular brushing alone can preserve its luxury for a long time.