Faux suede offers the luxurious look of real suede with easier upkeep, but it still needs careful cleaning to avoid staining or texture changes. The right tools and gentle techniques can restore its appearance without damaging the material. This guide walks American users through proven steps, using common products that minimize wear while keeping faux suede soft and fresh.
Quick Answer
Gently brush away loose debris, target stains with a microfiber cloth and light cleaner, then lift dirt with a suede eraser or nubuck brush. For persistent marks, repeat with a fabric stain remover designed for faux suede and finish with a microfiber cloth to restore nap. Always air-dry and avoid saturating the fabric.
What You’ll Need
- Faux suede cleaner kit
- Microfiber brush or eraser
- Suede cleaning brush for faux leather and faux suede
- Fabric stain remover for faux suede or microsuede kit
- Nubuck suede cleaning brush and eraser set
- Microfiber cloth and suede cleaning solution spray for faux suede
Before You Start
Test any cleaner on a hidden area first to check for color fastness. Work on a clean, well-lit surface and use gentle motions to avoid pressing dirt deeper. Avoid saturating the fabric. Allow treated areas to dry completely before wearing or using the item. Time estimates vary by item size, but plan about 30–60 minutes for initial cleaning and drying.
Step-By-Step: How To Clean Faux Suede
- Remove loose dirt with a dry microfiber brush, moving in the direction of the nap to prevent dulling the texture.
- Gently press a suede eraser or nubuck brush on small stains to lift surface marks without rubbing dye away.
- Lightly spray a microfiber cloth and suede cleaning solution onto the cloth, not directly on the fabric, and wipe the stained area in short, even strokes.
- For tougher spots, use a fabric stain remover for faux suede following the product’s instructions, applying sparingly and blotting rather than scrubbing.
- Revisit the nap with a clean microfiber brush to re-fluff the fibers after cleaning.
- Dab excess moisture with a dry cloth and allow the item to air-dry away from direct heat or sunlight to prevent shrinkage or discoloration.
- Once dry, brush again with a suede cleaning brush for faux leather and faux suede to restore the surface texture.
- Finish by performing a light overall wipe with a microfiber cloth to even out any residual shine and ensure uniform nap.
Troubleshooting
| Symptom | Likely Cause | Fix | Prevention |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stains remain after cleaning | Stain is set or dye transfer | Reapply fabric stain remover for faux suede per instructions and blot gently | Address stains promptly; avoid letting spills sit |
| Discoloration after cleaning | Over-wetting or incorrect cleaner | Spot-test a small area with a milder cleaner; dry completely before retesting | Always dilute cleaners and follow directions |
| Nap looks flat | Overly aggressive brushing | Switch to light, directional brushing and allow nap to recover | Use soft brushes and gentle pressure |
| Fibers shed or fray after cleaning | Rough handling | Cease scrubbing and use eraser or brush in one direction | Handle with care and store properly |
Common Mistakes
- Using high-moisture cleaners or saturating fabric
- Scrubbing aggressively, which damages nap and color
- Using household cleaners not intended for faux suede
- Skipping a test patch on an inconspicuous area
Tips For Best Results
- Brush faux suede regularly to maintain texture and remove surface grit before it becomes embedded.
- Keep a dedicated suede cleaning kit at home for quick touch-ups after spills.
- Allow ample air-drying time in a well-ventilated area; avoid heat sources like hair dryers.
- Store items in a way that prevents crushing the nap, such as upright for clothing and properly cushioned storage for cushions.
Call A Professional
Consult a professional if the item has large or persistent stains, color bleeding, or structural damage to the fabric. Seek help if the item is antique, valuable, or if cleaning could affect warranties. Signs to contact a pro include extensive staining, unusual odor after cleaning, or fabric fibers that don’t recover after brushing.
FAQ
Can faux suede be cleaned at home?
Yes, with gentle tools and spot-cleaning techniques designed for faux suede
What should I avoid when cleaning faux suede?
Avoid soaking the fabric, using harsh solvents, or scrubbing vigorously
Which tools are best for refreshing nap?
Microfiber brushes and erasers paired with a suede cleaning brush work well
How do I treat a stubborn stain on faux suede?
Apply a fabric stain remover for faux suede carefully, then blot and re-brush the nap
Buying Guide
When choosing products to clean faux suede, consider size and coverage, ease of use, and compatibility with microsuede. Look for a faux suede cleaner kit that includes a microfiber brush, eraser, and a gentle cleaning solution. A suede cleaning brush for faux leather and faux suede helps restore nap after treatment, while a fabric stain remover for faux suede provides targeted stain removal without over-wetting. Availability of a microsuede kit can streamline maintenance. Consider how you’ll store and access the kit for quick cleanups as well as the noise level of any electric tools if included. Place items away from direct sunlight to preserve color over time. Compare options based on included accessories, ease of use, and compatibility with your specific faux suede item, whether furniture, clothing, or accessories.