The Right Way to Clean a Suede Couch
Suede is a delicate material that can be damaged if cleaned incorrectly.
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Suede is a beautiful material for couches that can give this furnishing an elegant and elevated look. But it is also very delicate and porous, meaning it will quickly absorb moisture. Since the fabric is so susceptible to damage, it's important to be very careful when cleaning your suede couch. Using the wrong materials or getting it too wet can cause the fabric to become stiff or discolored. To ensure your furniture continues to look its best, we're sharing expert tips for how to clean a suede couch, including natural and microfiber suede.
Meet Our Expert
Marla Mock, president of Molly Maid, a Neighborly Company
Sabrina Fierman, owner of New York’s Little Elves
Kathy Cohoon, director of franchise operations of Two Maids.
Related: How to Clean and Condition Leather So It Stays Beautiful for Years to Come
How Often to Clean a Suede Couch
Suede is a delicate material that doesn't need to be cleaned often. Generally, you should only clean it about every three to four months, says Marla Mock, President of Molly Maid, a Neighborly Company. In between deep cleans, vacuum your suede couch about once per month and treat stains immediately to prevent them from setting in.
Materials to Never Use on Suede
Avoid using harsh chemicals, bleach, or ammonia-based cleaners on suede, as they can damage the delicate material. "Similarly, abrasive materials like stiff brushes should be avoided as they can cause irreversible damage to the suede fibers," says Mock.
It is also important to exercise caution when using water to clean suede. "Water can potentially damage suede by causing it to become stiff, discolored, or develop water spots," says Mock. "It's important to use water sparingly and only in combination with appropriate suede cleaning products."
If you're ever unsure of what cleaning materials you can use on suede, check the care tag before getting started, says Sabrina Fierman, owner of the high-end cleaning service New York’s Little Elves. These letters indicate care recommendations for the item:
W: The fabric can be cleaned with a water-based solvent.
S: The fabric should be cleaned with a water-free solvent.
W/S: The fabric can be cleaned with either a water-based or water-free solvent.
X: The fabric should only be cleaned with a brush or vacuum.
Materials Needed
Make sure you have these materials on hand when cleaning a suede couch.
Vacuum with brush attachment
Microfiber cloths
Suede brush
Water
Distilled white vinegar
Natural detergent
Tips
Always test your cleaning method on an inconspicuous spot first to make sure that the cleaning materials and technique do not harm the surface.
How to Clean a Natural Suede Couch
Natural suede can be cleaned using distilled white vinegar diluted with water. When applying the solution, use a cloth that is a light color so you can see if any discoloration or color bleeding occurs, says Fierman.
Vacuum the couch using a vacuum with the brush attachment to loosen dirt and dust.
Make a cleaning solution of 30 percent distilled white vinegar and 70 percent water.
Lightly moisten a soft cloth with the cleaning solution and wring it out very well.
Dab the cleaning solution on any stains or dirty areas of your couch, scrubbing very gently.
For stubborn stains, repeat the process until the stain is no longer visible, working from the outer edges inward.
Brush the couch using a suede brush and allow to air dry.
How to Clean a Microfiber Suede Couch
While traditional suede doesn't handle water well, microfiber suede is slightly more resistant, says Kathy Cohoon, the director of franchise operations of Two Maids. Before cleaning, always refer to the manufacturer's instructions.
Vacuum the couch using a vacuum with the brush attachment to loosen dirt and dust.
In a spray bottle, mix a few drops of mild detergent with water.
Lightly dampen a microfiber cloth with the solution.
Dab the cleaning solution on any stains or dirty areas of your couch, scrubbing very gently.
Dampen a clean cloth with water and blot the areas you cleaned to remove any residue.
For stubborn stains, repeat the process until the stain is no longer visible, working from the outer edges inward.
Let the couch air dry completely, then gently fluff with a suede brush or cloth.
Tips for Maintaining a Suede Couch
Keep your suede couch in optimal condition by following these tips.
Avoid eating or drinking on the couch to minimize the risk of accidental spills, says Cohoon.
Address any spills immediately to keep them from setting in.
Routinely vacuum the surface using a vacuum with the soft brush attachment, says Mock.
If your couch features removable cushions, periodically rotate them to distribute wear evenly, says Cohoon.
Be sure your suede couch is shielded from direct sunlight to prevent fading and deterioration, says Cohoon.
Treat the suede with a protective spray specifically designed for suede to repel stains and moisture, says Mock.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does water ruin a suede couch?
Water can potentially ruin a suede couch if not used carefully. When water comes into contact with suede, it can cause staining, discoloration, and irreversible damage to the fabric.
Can you steam clean a suede couch?
Avoid steam-cleaning a suede couch, as steam can saturate the suede, causing it to become waterlogged and potentially leading to staining and discoloration.
Read the original article on Martha Stewart.
