Suede is a great upholstery material, as it has a way of providing a cozy yet luxurious atmosphere to a room. It can be difficult to maintain, however, over time and exposure to wear and tear pets, guests and entertaining, etc. But wait, don’t fret just yet! Here are five simple ways to help preserve the beauty of your suede furniture without causing stress.

Removing Spills and Stains

• • If food or beverage spills onto your couch, it can seem like a nightmare at first. Try not to panic, although it is crucial to move quickly. Suede is extremely sensitive to moisture and liquid, and can easily be damaged by them. If a spill occurs, gently blot the affected area to remove as much of the stain and moisture as you can. If residue remains, use a slightly damp cloth and blot the area again. It doesn’t hurt to also use spot treatment products, but be sure to follow the instructions on the container. Leave alone for a few minutes, and then use a clean damp cloth on the area to rinse it of product. To dry the area, use a hair dryer if you have one.

Removing Old Stains

• • If there is a stain on your suede furniture that has been there for quite some time, use a pencil eraser and gently rub it over the affected area. While there are special erasers for suede furniture, a good old fashioned pencil eraser works as well. After erasing the spot, use a soft brush over the area to remove excess dirt. If this doesn’t help remove the stain, call a professional sofa cleaner, especially if the stain is from ink or crayons.

Restoring Its Appearance

• • It’s easy to freshen up the appearance of your suede furniture. Gently wipe the surface with a slightly damp cloth to remove dirt and dust without soaking the upholstery. This is similar to what professional cleaners do, as they use a dry cleaning procedure to clean suede furniture.

Brushing to Maintain Appearance

• • It’s important for suede material to be brushed in order to maintain its appearance. After cleaning spills and stains, let the area dry then brush using a soft suede brush. The most effective way to brush the upholstery is using gentle circular motions. Apply some more pressure to the area where the stains were removed. If you have pets that stay inside or come in for a bit during the day, brush the upholstery to remove pet hair.

Test Cleaning Products

• • There are so many different kinds of suede cleaning products available on the market. Before applying too much of one kind, however, it’s a good idea to test different brands on small inconspicuous areas first to see which works best. Wait 15-20 minutes after application to determine if the upholstery is damaged by each cleaner. Follow the instructions closely. If you choose not to buy a cleaner, you can make your own at home using white distilled vinegar and water. Dilute the vinegar in water and test in a small area. Whether you buy a cleaner or make your own, remember to blot the area dry after the stain is removed.