The Right Way to Clean a Suede Couch

Suede is a beautiful material for couches that can give this furnishing an elegant and elevated look. But it is also very delicate and porous, meaning it will quickly absorb moisture. Since the fabric is so susceptible to damage, it's important to be very careful when cleaning your suede couch. Using the wrong materials or getting it too wet can cause the fabric to become stiff or discolored. To ensure your furniture continues to look its best, we're sharing expert tips for how to clean a suede couch, including natural and microfiber suede.

How Often to Clean a Suede Couch

Suede is a delicate material that doesn't need to be cleaned often. Generally, you should only clean it about every three to four months, says Marla Mock, President of Molly Maid, a Neighborly Company. In between deep cleans, vacuum your suede couch about once per month and treat stains immediately to prevent them from setting in.

Materials to Never Use on Suede

Avoid using harsh chemicals, bleach, or ammonia-based cleaners on suede, as they can damage the delicate material. "Similarly, abrasive materials like stiff brushes should be avoided as they can cause irreversible damage to the suede fibers," says Mock.

It is also important to exercise caution when using water to clean suede. "Water can potentially damage suede by causing it to become stiff, discolored, or develop water spots," says Mock. "It's important to use water sparingly and only in combination with appropriate suede cleaning products."

If you're ever unsure of what cleaning materials you can use on suede, check the care tag before getting started, says Sabrina Fierman, owner of the high-end cleaning service New York’s Little Elves. These letters indicate care recommendations for the item:

• W: The fabric can be cleaned with a water-based solvent.
• S: The fabric should be cleaned with a water-free solvent.
• W/S: The fabric can be cleaned with either a water-based or water-free solvent.
• X: The fabric should only be cleaned with a brush or vacuum.
  

Materials Needed

Make sure you have these materials on hand when cleaning a suede couch.

• Vacuum with brush attachment
• Microfiber cloths
• Suede brush
• Water
• Distilled white vinegar
• Natural detergent

How to Clean a Natural Suede Couch

Natural suede can be cleaned using distilled white vinegar diluted with water. When applying the solution, use a cloth that is a light color so you can see if any discoloration or color bleeding occurs, says Fierman.

1. Vacuum the couch using a vacuum with the brush attachment to loosen dirt and dust.
2. Make a cleaning solution of 30 percent distilled white vinegar and 70 percent water.
3. Lightly moisten a soft cloth with the cleaning solution and wring it out very well.
4. Dab the cleaning solution on any stains or dirty areas of your couch, scrubbing very gently.
5. For stubborn stains, repeat the process until the stain is no longer visible, working from the outer edges inward.
6. Brush the couch using a suede brush and allow to air dry.
   

How to Clean a Microfiber Suede Couch

While traditional suede doesn't handle water well, microfiber suede is slightly more resistant, says Kathy Cohoon, the director of franchise operations of Two Maids. Before cleaning, always refer to the manufacturer's instructions.

1. Vacuum the couch using a vacuum with the brush attachment to loosen dirt and dust.
2. In a spray bottle, mix a few drops of mild detergent with water.
3. Lightly dampen a microfiber cloth with the solution.
4. Dab the cleaning solution on any stains or dirty areas of your couch, scrubbing very gently.
5. Dampen a clean cloth with water and blot the areas you cleaned to remove any residue.
6. For stubborn stains, repeat the process until the stain is no longer visible, working from the outer edges inward.
7. Let the couch air dry completely, then gently fluff with a suede brush or cloth.
   

Tips for Maintaining a Suede Couch

Keep your suede couch in optimal condition by following these tips.

• Avoid eating or drinking on the couch to minimize the risk of accidental spills, says Cohoon.
• Address any spills immediately to keep them from setting in.
• Routinely vacuum the surface using a vacuum with the soft brush attachment, says Mock.
• If your couch features removable cushions, periodically rotate them to distribute wear evenly, says Cohoon.
• Be sure your suede couch is shielded from direct sunlight to prevent fading and deterioration, says Cohoon.
• Treat the suede with a protective spray specifically designed for suede to repel stains and moisture, says Mock.