Suede is a soft and delicate type of leather that can easily be ruined if not properly taken care of. In order to maintain the quality and longevity of suede, it’s important to clean it regularly. However, traditional suede cleaners can be expensive and not always readily available.
For those looking for alternative solutions, there are numerous household items that can effectively clean suede without causing damage. From everyday household products to natural ingredients, this article will outline some effective alternatives to traditional suede cleaners that can save you time and money.
Natural Alternatives To Suede Cleaner
It’s common knowledge that suede shoes and clothing require a certain level of maintenance, cleaning, and care. Suede cleaner is the go-to solution for most people when it comes to removing dirt, stains, and scuffs. However, did you know that there are natural alternatives that can be used instead of suede cleaner? Here are a few options:
1. White Vinegar – This simple household item is an excellent degreaser and can help remove stubborn stains from suede. Mix equal parts white vinegar and water, dab onto a soft cloth, and rub the stain in circular motions. Allow the suede to dry before brushing with a soft-bristled brush.
2. Cornmeal – Sprinkle cornmeal over the stain and let it sit overnight. The cornmeal will absorb the oils and dirt. In the morning, brush the cornmeal away with a soft brush. For tougher stains, combine cornmeal with white vinegar to make a paste. Massage this paste into the stain with a soft-bristled brush and leave it overnight. Brush off the residue in the morning, and your suede will look as good as new!
Household Products That Can Clean Suede
Suede is a delicate and sensitive material. It requires proper care to maintain its texture and appearance. However, if you don’t have suede cleaner at your disposal, worry not! There are several household products that can clean your suede items.
Firstly, try using a clean, white cloth and gently dab it on the stain. Avoid rubbing the stain as it will push the dirt and moisture deeper into the suede fibers. For oily stains, sprinkle some talcum powder or cornstarch on the affected area and let it sit for a few hours. The powder will absorb the oil, making it easier to remove. Afterward, use a suede brush to gently lift the powder off the surface. Vinegar, alcohol, and baking soda can also be used to clean stains on suede. However, it’s important to test these products on a small, inconspicuous area before using them on the entire item. With these household products, you can keep your suede items looking fresh and new, even without suede cleaner.
DIY Suede Cleaning Solutions
DIY suede cleaning solutions prove to be a lifesaver when you find yourself short on suede cleaner spray. Most of the ingredients for these cleaning solutions can be easily found in your home. One of the most popular DIY solutions is the use of white vinegar. To begin, mix equal parts of white vinegar and water in a bowl and dip a clean cloth into it. Gently rub the cloth onto the stained suede fabric, ensuring that you cover the entire affected area with the solution. Afterwards, allow the area to dry up completely. Once the suede dries out, use a soft brush to brush it, and the stain should disappear.
Another DIY suede cleaning solution is cornstarch. Before applying the cleaning solution, ensure that you have brushed off any dirt and debris from the suede. Then, sprinkle the cornstarch onto the stained area and leave it for a few hours to absorb the moisture from the stain. Afterward, gently brush off the cornstarch from the suede. Any stain should be significantly lighter, making it easier to clean with a gentle suede brush or cloth. With these DIY suede cleaning solutions, you can easily keep your suede items in great shape without breaking the bank.
Environmentally-Friendly Suede Cleaning Options
If you’re looking for an environmentally-friendly way to clean your suede items, there are a few options available to you. One of the most effective methods is using vinegar and water. Mix equal parts of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle and then lightly spray the solution onto the suede. Rub the suede gently with a soft cloth until the stain disappears. Then, let it dry naturally.
Another option is using baking soda. Sprinkle a small amount of baking soda onto the affected area and let it sit for a few hours before brushing it off gently with a suede brush. This method helps to remove odors and can also soften the suede. These environmentally-friendly options are a great way to clean suede without causing any harm to the environment. With just a few simple ingredients, you can keep your suede items looking their best while also doing your part to protect the planet.
Professional Suede Cleaning Services
If you don’t want to risk cleaning your suede items yourself or don’t have access to suede cleaner, professional suede cleaning services are always an option. These services use specialized equipment and cleaning techniques to effectively remove dirt and stains from suede without damaging the material.
Professional suede cleaning services may come at a higher cost than cleaning the item yourself, but the peace of mind and the quality of cleaning you’ll receive are worth it. Plus, these services often offer additional treatments, such as waterproofing or conditioning, to further protect your suede items from damage and dirt buildup. If you’re unsure of how to properly clean your suede items or simply want to ensure the best possible cleaning, consider utilizing the services of a professional suede cleaner.
Simple Tips For Maintaining Suede
Suede is a luxurious and delicate fabric that requires utmost care and attention in cleaning and maintenance. Following simple tips can help maintain the beauty and longevity of your suede clothing or footwear.
Firstly, always store suede in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Any exposure to heat or moisture can damage the material. Secondly, use a suede brush to gently brush off any surface dirt or debris. Be careful not to apply too much pressure, as this can cause damage to the suede fibers. If there are any stubborn stains or marks, try using a small amount of white vinegar or rubbing alcohol on a soft cloth to gently spot clean the area. Finally, invest in a suede protector spray and apply it regularly to keep your suede items water repellent and shielded from any potential damage. By following these simple tips, you can ensure that your suede clothing and footwear stay clean, fresh, and stylish for years to come.
Common Mistakes To Avoid When Cleaning Suede At Home
Suede requires gentle care and attention, and cleaning it at home can be quite challenging. However, there are several mistakes people commonly make when attempting to clean suede, which can damage the material. One of the most common mistakes is using water or soap on suede, as this can cause discoloration, stains, and even ruin the texture. Another mistake is applying too much pressure when cleaning, which can cause the suede to lose its softness and texture.
Another mistake is ignoring the instructions on the suede cleaner or using the wrong cleaner altogether. Different types of suede require different cleaning methods, and using the wrong cleaner can cause damage to the material. Additionally, using a stiff-bristled brush or towel can damage the suede fibers, making the material appear flat and worn-out over time. To avoid these common mistakes, it’s best to invest in a high-quality suede cleaner and ask for professional help if you’re unsure of how to clean your suede items properly.
Final Verdict
In conclusion, there are a number of alternative options available to clean suede items in the absence of commercial suede cleaners. The most important thing to keep in mind is that suede is a delicate material, so care should be taken when choosing and using cleaning products. While some of the options listed may not be as effective as commercial cleaners, they are a good place to start if you need to clean your suede item in a pinch.
Ultimately, the best way to keep your suede items looking their best is to prevent stains and dirt from accumulating in the first place. This can be done by treating your suede items with a protective spray and avoiding wearing them in messy or wet environments. By taking good care of your suede items and using gentle cleaning methods, you can enjoy their soft texture and sophisticated look for years to come.