Posted on July 25th, 2023
Suede couches are known for their luxurious look and buttery soft texture, but they require special care to keep them looking their best. Suede is a delicate material made from the underside of animal hide, which means it can easily stain and get damaged if not cleaned and maintained correctly. In this expert home cleaning blog, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process on how to clean your suede couch, so it remains a timeless centerpiece in your home for years to come.
Regular Dusting and Vacuuming
To start, use a soft brush or a microfiber cloth to dust off the surface of your suede couch gently. This will help prevent dirt and debris from settling into the fabric. Use a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment to remove any loose crumbs from the crevices and seams off the couch. Dusting and vacuuming religiously will prevent dirt from getting embedded in the suede fabric and make deep cleaning easier.
Handling Spills and Stains on Suede
Accidents happen, and when it comes to suede, the key is to act quickly. Use a clean and dry microfiber cloth or paper towel to blot the spill gently. Avoid rubbing the stain, as it can push the liquid further into the fabric and spread it. If the spill leaves a stain behind, use a suede eraser or a clean pencil eraser to rub the affected area without putting too much pressure.
For more stubborn stains, use a suede cleaner or mix a small amount of mild dish soap with water or distilled white vinegar and dab the stain gently. Allow the area to air dry, and avoid using heat sources as they can damage the suede.
A little caveat: spot test on a small part at the back of your couch first to ensure that a cleaning solution, whether DIY or commercial, is safe and effective to avoid irreversible and expensive cleaning mistakes.
Addressing Grease and Oil Stains
Grease and oil stains can be incredibly challenging to remove from suede. To tackle these stains, sprinkle cornstarch, baking soda, or talcum powder on the affected area generously. Allow it to sit for a few hours or overnight to absorb the oil. Then, slowly brush off the powder with a suede brush. If the stain persists, repeat the process or consider using a specially formulated suede cleaner.
Reviving the Suede Nap
Over time, your couch’s suede nap (or the raised, fuzzy fibers on the surface) may become flat and less textured. To revive it, use a suede brush and gently comb through the fabric’s surface in one direction. This will help bring back the softness and plush appearance of your couch.
Avoiding Sunlight and Heat
Keep your suede couch away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause fading and discoloration, while heat sources can dry out and damage the suede fibers.
Never Ever Do This To Your Suede Couch
Do not use the following cleaning methods to prevent water stains and damage:
- Water rinsing
- Shampooing
- Steam cleaning techniques
If your suede couch requires extensive cleaning or has significant stains, it’s best to seek professional help. Professional upholstery cleaners have the expertise and specialized equipment to handle suede furniture to preserve its beauty.
Professional Home Cleaning by HappyCleans OKC
Remember, gentle and prompt cleaning is the key to keeping your suede couch in top condition and making it the envy of your guests. And like sophisticated suede couches, your home also deserves regular care and maintenance. If you need backup, HappyCleans is always here to help. We offer different one-time cleaning and regular cleaning services to address your household’s unique needs.
For more information, call us at (405) 353-2665 or book our house cleaning service online today!