How to Clean Dirty Suede

Suede, a soft, velvety leather with a matte appearance, requires special care and cleaning. Unlike shiny leather, suede has no protective coating. Good Housekeeping.com recommends dry-cleaning techniques to avoid spotting and to restore the nap. Avoid using water and harsh cleaning products. Common household items such as an old toothbrush or an art gum eraser work wonders on dirty suede.

Things You'll Need

• Art gum eraser
• Emery board
• Toothbrush
• Corn starch
• Cloth

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Instructions

1. • 1

     Rub the suede briskly with a gum eraser to remove dirt.

   • 2

     Sand stains on the suede with an emery board. Use gentle pressure.

   • 3

     Scrub the suede gently with a toothbrush to restore the suede's texture and nap.

   • 4

     Remove oil stains by sprinkling corn starch onto the stain. Use enough to cover it completely. Allow it to sit for one to two hours.

   • 5

     Tap off the excess corn starch and brush the suede with a toothbrush or wipe it with a cloth.