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Writer's pictureTom Goedhart

Mastering Suede Care: Keep Your Fussy Fabric Fresh

Everyone knows suede has a unique charm - it’s got that soft, textured look that brings depth to colors like red, yellow, green, and more, giving them an effortlessly wearable vibe. But here’s the catch: that plush surface is a magnet for stains and absorbs moisture like a sponge, making it prone to mold, fading, and all sorts of wear and tear.

So, how do you keep your suede pieces looking fresh? Here’s the lowdown.


Dust and Water Protection is Key

As the saying goes, “prevention is better than cure,” and it couldn’t be more true for suede. When you’ve got a fresh suede jacket or pair of shoes, it’s tempting to show them off immediately. But hold on - before you step out, take a few extra minutes to spray on a dust and water repellent. This one step will give your suede a much-needed layer of defense.

After around 5-10 wears, it’s time for a deep clean and another spray session. A few great options for suede protection are Crep, Jason Markk Repel, and Saphir Nano Invulner Protector. Spray from about 10-15cm away, and let it dry for at least 5 hours.


Perfecting the Brush Technique

Suede requires gentle, dry brushing rather than liquid cleaning. The soft, textured surface doesn’t hold up well to heavy cleaning solutions. Use a soft-bristle brush, preferably with horsehair, though pig bristles can work too. Ideally, get a brush with copper bristles for tougher stains, but remember - modern suede is often quite thin, so be careful with thicker or harder brushes.

For the best results, brush in the direction of the fibers, and be patient! This takes longer than caring for smooth leather. If you’re dealing with grease stains, use a suede eraser to lift the stain before brushing it clean.


I swear by the Saphir Crepe brush; it’s dependable, and I replace it yearly. They also offer a premium version, but I find the standard Crepe brush gets the job done. For tougher stains, Saphir Gommadin is a fantastic suede eraser that’s lasted me nearly a decade. Crep also makes a solid eraser, though I find their products work best with sneakers.


What to Do If Suede Gets Wet

It happens - a sudden downpour, a damp day. If your suede items get wet, resist the urge to speed up drying with a heater or dryer; it can warp the fabric. Instead, let it air dry naturally, stuffing it with newspaper if needed to maintain shape, but avoid any direct heat.


Once dry, go through your regular care routine with the brush and eraser.


Store It Right

When it’s time to stow away suede for a season, be sure it’s clean first. Jackets should be hung on wide, wooden hangers to avoid shoulder stretch and absorb any residual moisture. Shoes? Slip them into fabric bags with a moisture-absorbing packet inside, and keep them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.


With the right care, your suede pieces will stay looking sharp season after season.


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