Cleaning Suede Leather

If you have ever seen anything made out of suede, then you know just how wonderful this type of leather can be. It is perhaps one of the softest and most supple types of leather that you can find. However, it does present a few unique challenges that you will find yourself needing to deal with. For example, suede often has these little hairs, or fibers, that can trap dirt and grime if proper care isn't taken. When cleaned incorrectly, this can make the leather look matted and stiff, and possibly even dirty despite any cleaning that you may have done.

There are three methods that you can use to clean suede leather for some general cleaning, and only that you can use if the problem is too big. These methods are described below, and will be a big help to you in getting your suede looking fantastic once again.

• Erasers. For very light dirt or damage, you can actually use erasers to get the suede clean. Surprisingly rubberized erasers will deal with a lot of everyday problems that you can find yourself faced with. When using this method you want to be careful tough. Make sure that you are rubbing gently, and only moving in the direction of the grain. If you don't do this, then you could potentially damage the leather.
• Brushes. There are two types of brushes that you can use to get your suede looking good again. The first is simply a stiff nylon brush, and the other is specialized suede brush. The second type of brush is usually a bit more expensive, since it has a lot of brass in it. If you use either type of brush, be sure that you are rubbing gently, and going with the grain. Use a slight lifting motion as you do this since you are not only trying to get the suede clean, but restore the previous natural surface.
• Specialized cleaners. You can get specialized cleaning products from your local cleaners, or even from your local department store. If you use these types of cleaners though, make sure that they are specially formulated for dealing with suede, and not a multipurpose cleaner. When using them you also want to make sure that you follow the directions carefully, and to the letter or you could damage the suede.
• Professional cleaners. If you find yourself faced with a problem that you can't handle, or you are unwilling to risk damaging the suede, you can always take the product to a professional cleaner. Be aware that this is going to be the most expensive option simply because suede often presents such unique problems when cleaning. On the average you can expect to pay at least twice what you normally would to get another type of garment or item cleaned.