Your Essential Guide to Keeping Suede Clean, Soft and Waterproof

Suede leather with its soft texture, understated sophistication and luxurious finish is a material that instantly upgrades any outfit or accessory. But owning suede is a commitment this delicate leather requires attention, care and the right knowledge to keep it looking its best. Whether you own suede shoes, jackets, bags or furniture understanding how to clean suede, waterproof suede and maintain the nap is key to keeping it looking great for years.

At Glory Store, we specialize in premium women and Men's Leather Jacket including stunning suede pieces designed for durability and timeless style. This guide will teach you how to care for suede leather the right way, protect it from damage and help it age well.

1. What is Suede Leather

Before we get into cleaning and maintenance let’s define suede. Suede is the inside of animal hide, typically cow, lamb or goat. Unlike full-grain leather which is smooth and durable, suede has a soft fuzzy texture caused by sanding or buffing the inner split of the hide.

It’s breathable and flexible but more absorbent and vulnerable to moisture and stains than other types of leather like Nubuck Leather which is made from the outside of the hide but has a similar nap. Other leather types like Synthetic-Tanned Leather, Aldehyde-Tanned Leather and Brain-Tanned Leather each have their own characteristics but suede is unique for its surface.

Suede’s appeal is in its texture and tone making it popular for fashion-forward jackets, shoes and bags but also one of the trickiest materials to maintain.

2. Why Suede is Sensitive and Prone to Damage

One of the biggest myths is to treat suede like regular leather. Unlike smooth leather suede is porous and has no finish so it’s prone to:

• Water spots and staining
• Scuffs and scratches
• Color fading from sun exposure
• Oil absorption from skin contact or spills
• Damage from improper cleaning methods

Because suede fibers are open and absorbent moisture or grime seeps in quickly. Knowing how to handle suede gently, with the right tools and preventative techniques means longevity and less need for professional repairs.

3. Suede Leather Care Tools and Products

Caring for suede isn’t just about cleaning it’s about having the right tools and products for different situations. Here’s what you should have in your suede maintenance kit:

·     Suede brush: Soft bristles or rubber ends to lift the nap without damaging the material.

·         Suede eraser: A rubber block to rub out minor scuffs and surface dirt.

·         Microfiber cloth: For gently blotting moisture or cleaning without friction.

·        White vinegar or rubbing alcohol: For removing stubborn stains like salt, grease or mildew.

·         Cornstarch or talcum powder: For absorbing oil-based spills.

·    Suede spray: A waterproofing spray to prevent water stains and keep dirt from penetrating.

Having a suede care kit saves your items from long-term wear, especially if you wear suede in the city, where you’re exposed to pollutants and moisture all the time.

4. Step-by-Step: How to Clean Suede Shoes, Jackets, and Bags

Cleaning suede leather is more about being methodical than aggressive. Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Brush Off Loose Dirt

Use a suede brush to gently lift off surface-level dust and dirt. Always brush in one direction to preserve the nap. For more ingrained grime, go over the area using short, deliberate strokes.

Step 2: Remove Scuffs with a Suede Eraser

Rub a suede eraser or even a clean pencil eraser over minor scuffs. Don’t overdo it light pressure works best.

Step 3: Treat Stains with Alcohol or Vinegar

Dab a cloth with white vinegar or rubbing alcohol, gently blot the stained area, then let it dry. Once dry, re-brush the area to restore texture.

Step 4: Absorb Oil with Powder

Sprinkle cornstarch or talcum powder on greasy stains and let it sit overnight. Brush off the powder the next day.

Step 5: Dry Carefully

If your suede gets wet, blot (don’t rub) the moisture with a clean cloth. Stuff the item with paper (for shape retention), and let it air dry away from heat or direct sunlight.

Cleaning suede is a delicate process, but it’s totally doable at home with regular maintenance and gentle handling.

5. How to Remove Tough Stains from Suede

Even with regular care, tough stains are going to happen. Here’s how to tackle the worst:

Oil & Grease

As I mentioned, cornstarch is your BFF. It absorbs oil without damaging the surface. May need to repeat applications for heavy stains.

Ink or Wine

Use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol. Gently blot the stain and let it air dry. Always test in a discreet area first.

Salt Stains (from snow or roads)

Mix equal parts water and white vinegar, dab gently, then let it dry before brushing.

Blood or Protein Stains

Cold water and a soft cloth can sometimes lift these. Never hot water, that sets protein stains. Minimal moisture only. If all else fails, take it to a suede whisperer. Don’t mess with suede.

6. How to Waterproof Suede Without Damaging It

Water is suede’s kryptonite, but that doesn’t mean you can’t defend it. A suede waterproof spray creates an invisible barrier against moisture.

Step-by-Step Waterproofing

1.      Choose the right product: Only use a waterproofing spray labeled for suede.

2.      Test first: Spray a small, hidden area to see if it changes color.

3.      Spray evenly: Hold the can 6-8 inches away and spray across the surface.

4.      Let it air dry: No fans or hairdryers — air drying allows the spray to set properly.

5.   Repeat as needed: Reapply every few weeks if you wear suede often or in rainy weather.

Waterproofing protects against sudden spills, rain and salt exposure. It’s not a magic bullet, but it extends suede’s life.

7. Brushing and Reviving Suede’s Texture

Brushing is not just for cleaning, but for keeping suede’s nap.

When to Brush

·         After cleaning

·         When the nap looks flat or dull

·         After wearing, especially if the item got dirty or wet

Types of Brushes

·         Crepe brushes: For delicate materials, restore nap without damage.

·         Wire brushes: More aggressive, for boots or thicker suede.

·         Two-sided brushes: One side for cleaning, one for nap revival.

Brush gently and in one direction. A few strokes go a long way to revive suede.

8. Long-Term Suede Maintenance Tips

Good suede care goes beyond occasional cleaning. A maintenance mindset can make your suede garments and accessories last for years.

Storage

·         Store suede in cool, dry places

·         Use dust bags for shoes and garment bags for jackets

·         Hang jackets on wide, padded hangers to keep shape

·         Stuff suede bags and shoes with paper to prevent sagging

Seasonal Rotation

Don’t wear suede in harsh weather. Rotate your wardrobe seasonally to minimize exposure.

Avoid Skin Oils

If you have a suede collar or cuffs, be mindful of skin-to-suede contact, which can leave dark, oily patches over time.

At Glory Store, we recommend applying suede protectants on our suede leather jackets right after purchase and every few months for best results.

9. Suede Emergency and Professional Cleaning

Sometimes things happen. When they do, here’s what to do:

·       Soaked: Blot and dry with paper stuffing, then reshape and air dry. Never use heat.

·      Muddy: Let it dry first, then brush off dirt. Wet brushing causes smearing.

·   Mold: Isolate the item, gently brush outdoors, and treat with rubbing alcohol. If unsure, call a pro.

·  Uncertain: Leather pros have specialized tools and cleaning agents for deep restoration.

10. FAQs and Common Mistakes to Avoid

Can I machine wash suede?

No. Suede’s structure breaks down in water and agitation. Hand cleaning or professional care only.

Can I dry clean suede?

Not all dry cleaners are equipped for suede. Only go to those who specialize in leather.

Is waterproof spray enough?

It helps but isn’t foolproof. Avoid puddles and always carry an umbrella when wearing suede outdoors.

What’s the worst for suede?

Too much moisture, oils, and sunlight can ruin suede fast.

Can I use household cleaners on suede?

No. Avoid soaps, detergents or generic cleaners. Stick to suede specific products or safe household items like vinegar and alcohol.

Final Thoughts: Invest in Suede, Take Care of It

Suede leather may be high maintenance but it’s worth it. With the right techniques, tools and prevention, you can enjoy your suede items for years to come.

At Glory Store, we make suede and other leather jackets including black mens aviator jackets for those who love fashion and quality. Whether you’re looking for durable Nubuck Leather, handcrafted Brain-Tanned Leather, or modern Synthetic-Tanned options, check out our full collection and read our other leather care blogs for more.

Proper care begins with knowledge and now you have the tools to protect one of the most iconic and stylish materials in fashion: suede.