Suede brings a soft, velvety texture that instantly adds depth and style to any outfit, whether it's a classic bomber jacket, a chic pair of boots, or a skirt. But as beautiful as it looks, suede can be a little high-maintenance.

Suede doesn’t take well to moisture, heat, or heavy scrubbing, which makes cleaning it feel intimidating. But don’t worry, this beginner-friendly guide breaks it all down, from daily care tips to stain removal.

But when cleaning at home feels too much like a gamble, it may be best to let dry cleaning experts like Tumble take over.

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What Makes Suede Different from Other Fabrics

Suede is made from the underside of animal hide and is known for its soft, brushed surface called the nap. This texture gives suede its luxurious feel but also makes it more absorbent and delicate.

Because the fibres are open and uncoated, suede attracts dust, absorbs oils, and can develop water stains or scuffs more easily than most fabrics.

Unlike cotton or synthetic materials, suede can’t just be tossed in the washer, so understanding its nature is key to caring for it properly.

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Daily Suede Care Basics

Consistent daily care helps suede stay fresh and prevents buildup of grime or damage. Think of it as giving your garment a quick check-in after each wear.

✅ Gently brush the surface with a suede brush to revive the nap and remove surface dirt.

✅ Always brush in the same direction to avoid causing damage to the fibres.

✅ Let suede garments breathe on a hanger before storing to release any moisture.

✅ Apply a suede protector spray every few months to help repel stains and water.

❌ Don’t wear suede on rainy or humid days because it absorbs moisture easily.

❌ Don’t store suede in plastic garment bags, which can trap moisture.

❌ Avoid using regular household cleaners or soap on suede.

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Dry Clean: The Best Option for Suede

Most suede garments aren’t meant to be fully washed, so professional dry cleaning is typically recommended. It is almost always the safest and most effective cleaning method for suede.

Suede’s delicate texture and open fibres don’t mix well with water or aggressive washing. Professional dry cleaners like Tumble use methods that preserve the nap, restore colour, and eliminate stains without causing damage or shrinkage.

If the suede item is lined, tailored, or particularly valuable, it's best to let the pros handle it from the start.

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Hand-Washing Suede: When and How

While dry cleaning remains the gold standard, certain suede items might be suitable for VERY gentle hand cleaning. But proceed only when the label says that it is washable, and do this extremely carefully. Here's how:

1. Fill a clean basin with cold water and mix in a small amount of gentle or suede-specific detergent.

2. Turn the garment inside out and immerse it for no more than 2 minutes, swishing gently. Avoid scrubbing or wringing.

3. Rinse with fresh cold water until the soap is fully removed.

4. Press the garment gently against the side of the basin to remove excess water, then roll it in a towel to blot out more moisture.

5. Lay flat to dry on a mesh rack, reshaping the item as needed. Keep it away from direct sunlight or heat sources.

6. Once completely dry, gently brush the nap back up.

7. For any stiff or flattened areas, use a steamer at a safe distance (around 15 cm) to help revive the texture.

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Can You Machine-Wash Suede?

The short answer is no—machine washing is usually a bad idea for suede. The tumbling, heat, and spin cycles can cause suede to shrink, warp, or crease permanently.

The only exception is for faux suede garments labeled as machine-washable, but even then, caution is essential. Use a laundry bag, cold water, and a delicate cycle, and skip the dryer altogether.

Still unsure? Let Tumble handle it, especially if the item is expensive or holds sentimental value.

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Spot-Cleaning and Stain Removal for Suede

If your suede item is not washable and you cannot take it to a dry cleaner immediately, these spot-cleaning techniques can help minimise damage.

Here’s how to tackle common suede stains:

• Dry dirt or dust: Use a suede brush or a clean toothbrush to gently lift away particles.

• Fresh spills: Blot (don’t rub!) with a clean cloth, then sprinkle corn-starch or talc over the damp area. Let it sit for an hour before brushing off.

• Oil-based stains: Apply corn-starch or baking soda to absorb the grease overnight, then brush clean.

• Water marks: Lightly dampen the surrounding area with a sponge to even out the appearance, then allow it to dry and brush gently.

• Ink stains: These are tricky. A suede eraser might help, but deep stains often require professional care. That’s where Tumble can step in with the right tools to save your suede piece.

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Suede Tools & Products You'll Want

Having a few suede-friendly tools nearby makes cleaning easier and more effective:

• Suede brush – look for one with soft rubber or brass bristles.

• Suede eraser – perfect for minor scuffs or shiny spots.

• Corn-starch or talcum powder – great for absorbing oil.

• Protector spray – creates a barrier against water and stains.

• Mesh drying rack – allows air circulation during drying.

These basics can keep suede looking sharp between deeper cleans.

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Final Thoughts

Suede doesn’t have to be scary. With a few daily habits and the right tools, suede garments can stay looking soft and stylish for years.

Brush regularly, avoid moisture, act fast on stains, and skip machine washes. And when in doubt, trust the pros.

Tumble makes it easy to keep suede pieces looking their best with expert cleaning and care tailored for delicate fabrics. Book a laundry service today and give your favourite suede jacket or skirt a refresh.