Suede sofas are famous for their soft, luxurious feel and stylish appearance. However, suede is a delicate fabric that requires special care when cleaning. Suede can easily be stained or damaged by water, so it is essential to take the proper steps to clean them.
In this guide, we will provide some general tips and steps on how to clean a suede sofa. It is important to note that these tips are general, and check the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions before cleaning your suede sofa is always recommended.
Let’s start.
How do you clean suede furniture at home?
Cleaning a suede sofa requires a delicate touch to avoid damaging the fabric. Here are some steps you can take to clean your suede sofa:
Vacuum the sofa:
The first step in cleaning a suede sofa is to vacuum it. Use a soft-bristled brush attachment to gently remove any loose dirt, dust, or debris from the fabric’s surface. Using a soft brush attachment is essential to avoid damaging the suede.
Start by vacuuming the entire sofa, paying close attention to any crevices or seams where dirt may accumulate. Be thorough but gentle, as suede can easily be damaged. Vacuuming the sofa will help prevent dirt and debris from becoming embedded in the fabric during cleaning.
Identify stains:
After vacuuming the suede sofa, the next step is to identify any stains that may be present. Look closely at the sofa’s surface for discolorations, spots, or stains. Mark these areas with chalk or masking tape so you can focus on cleaning them later.
It is essential to identify the stains before proceeding with the cleaning process, as different stains may require different cleaning techniques or products. For example, an oil-based stain will require a different cleaning method than a water-based stain. Once you have identified the stains, you can treat them.
Brush the sofa:
The next step in cleaning a suede sofa is to brush the entire sofa with a soft-bristled suede brush. Brushing the sofa will help remove any dirt or dust that may be embedded in the fabric and help lift the nap of the suede.
To brush the sofa, use a gentle circular motion, careful not to apply too much pressure or scrub too hard. Brushing the suede sofa will prepare it for the next step of treating the stains. Be sure to brush the entire sofa, not just the stained areas. This will help to ensure an even appearance after cleaning.
Treat stains:
Now is the time to treat the stains that you have identified. Some different methods and products can be used depending on the type of stain.
- Use a clean, dry cloth to blot as much liquid as possible for water-based stains, such as coffee or wine. Do not rub or scrub the stain, as this can cause it to spread. Then, use a suede cleaner designed explicitly for water-based stains. Apply a small amount of the suede sofa cleaner to a clean cloth and gently dab the stained area, careful not to rub too hard. Allow the cleaner to sit for a few minutes, then use a clean, damp cloth to remove any residue.
- Use a clean, dry cloth to blot as much of the oil as possible for oil-based stains, such as grease or makeup. Then, sprinkle some cornstarch or talcum powder on the stain and let it sit for a few hours to absorb the oil. Use a soft-bristled suede brush to brush off the powder, then use a suede cleaner designed explicitly for oil-based stains. Apply a small amount of the cleaner to a clean cloth and gently dab the stained area, careful not to rub too hard. Allow the cleaner to sit for a few minutes, then use a clean, damp cloth to remove any residue.
- For other types of stains, such as ink or dye, hiring the best suede sofa cleaner company near you is best because these stains can be difficult to remove without damaging the suede.
Point to ponder: It is essential to test any cleaning product on an inconspicuous sofa area before using it on the stain. This will help ensure the product does not damage the fabric or cause discoloration.
Dry the sofa:
Allow the sofa to air dry completely. It is essential not to use any heat sources, such as a hairdryer, as the heat can cause the suede to shrink or become misshapen. To air dry the sofa, place it in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight or heat sources. You can also use a fan to circulate air around the sofa and help it dry more quickly.
Depending on the humidity level in your home, it may take several hours or even a day for the sofa to dry completely. Be patient and avoid sitting or placing any objects on the sofa until it is completely dry to avoid causing any damage. We hope that at this point, you feel the motivation to clean suede furniture at home.
Brush the sofa again:
Congratulations, you have reached the end of our how-to-clean suede sofa guide. Brush the sofa again with a soft-bristled suede brush. This will help restore the suede’s nap and give it a uniform appearance. Brush the entire sofa, using a gentle circular motion, careful not to apply too much pressure or scrub too hard.
Brushing the sofa after it has dried will help to remove any remaining dirt or debris and will also help to fluff up the suede fibers for a softer and more luxurious feel. Once you have finished brushing the sofa, you can enjoy your clean and refreshed suede furniture!
Point to ponder: Always test suede sofa cleaner on a small, inconspicuous sofa area before using it on a larger stain. This will help you to avoid any damage to the fabric. We hope these steps will help you clean suede furniture at home.
Wrap up
Cleaning a suede sofa requires special care and attention due to the fabric’s delicate nature. However, with the right tools and techniques, keeping your suede sofa looking clean and fresh is possible.
Always follow the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions when cleaning your suede sofa. Clean and Shine is at your service if you need to invest in professional sofa cleaning services. Book an appointment today!
