A suede sofa instantly adds a touch of elegance and timeless style to any living room. But as stunning as it looks, maintaining a suede couch can be a bit of a challenge. Suede is known for its soft, delicate, and porous texture — which means it’s prone to absorb moisture, dirt, and spills quickly. So, the big question is: how to clean a suede sofa without damaging it?
Whether you're dealing with natural suede or faux suede, this guide will walk you through the safest and most effective ways to keep your furniture looking brand new. From everyday cleaning to tackling tough stains, here’s everything you need to know about cleaning a suede sofa.
How to clean a suede couch: first things first
Before you grab a cloth or reach for any products, make sure you take the following steps to prepare your suede couch for cleaning.
Identify the type of suede
The first and most important step is to check the care label on your suede leather sofa. This will tell you which type of material you're dealing with and what kind of cleaning method is safe to use.
Here’s what those fabric care codes mean:
- W – Use water-based cleaners
- S – Use solvent-based or dry-cleaning products only. Be sure to work in a well-ventilated area and avoid open flames.
- W-S – Both water- and solvent-based cleaners are safe
- X – No cleaning agents at all. Stick to vacuuming or call in a professional
Knowing this code is essential, especially when figuring out how to clean faux suede safely.
Gather your cleaning tools
To clean suede sofas effectively, you’ll need a few basic items:
- Soft microfiber cloths
- A suede brush
- Vacuum with upholstery/crevice attachments
- Spray bottle
- White vinegar
- Rubbing alcohol (isopropyl)
- Mild dish soap
- Baking soda
- Baby powder or cornstarch
- Soft-bristle scrub brush
- Bowl, sponge, and whisk
Having these ready will save you time and help avoid mistakes when cleaning sensitive fabric.
Best way to clean a suede sofa: natural vs. faux
Let’s break it down based on the material type.
How to clean a natural suede sofa
Natural suede is made from animal hide, with a velvety nap that looks and feels luxurious but is more delicate than microfiber alternatives. Dyed or undyed natural suede can be cleaned with distilled white vinegar diluted with water. Remember to use a light-coloured cloth to avoid any type of discolouration or colour bleeding that may occur.
Here’s how to clean a suede leather sofa made from genuine suede:
- Vacuum thoroughly with a brush attachment to lift dust and surface dirt.
- Mix a cleaning solution: 70% water + 30% white vinegar.
- Dampen a light-coloured cloth (to avoid colour transfer) and wring it out well.
- Gently blot or scrub stained areas, working from the outside in.
- For stubborn marks, repeat the process.
- Brush the nap back into place with a suede brush. Let it air dry completely.
Avoid soaking the material — moisture is suede’s worst enemy.
How to clean a microfiber suede couch
Microfiber suede (sometimes called faux suede) is made from tightly woven polyester and nylon fibres. It’s more stain- and water-resistant than natural suede, making it easier to maintain.
Here’s how to clean faux suede sofas:
- Vacuum thoroughly using a soft brush attachment.
- Mix a few drops of mild dish soap with water in a spray bottle.
- Spray the solution onto a clean cloth — don’t spray directly onto the couch.
- Gently clean the affected areas in a circular motion.
- Dab with a damp cloth to remove any soap residue.
- Let it air dry, then fluff the fibres with a cloth or suede brush.
If you’re wondering how to clean suede furniture regularly, a weekly vacuum and gentle wipe-down will go a long way.
How to get stains out of suede: quick tips that work
Accidents happen, and the faster you act, the better your chances of avoiding permanent stains.
Here’s what to do:
- Blot spills immediately using a dry cloth — never rub!
- Oil-based stains? Sprinkle with baby powder or cornstarch, let sit for a few hours, then brush away.
- Ink or glue marks? Use a small amount of rubbing alcohol on a cotton bud.
- Avoid steam-cleaning – it can lead to permanent damage or discolouration.
- Always test any cleaner on a hidden area first.
For tough stains or high-end furniture, consider using a professional-grade suede sofa cleaner or contacting a specialist.
Final thoughts: keep your suede sofa looking its best
Knowing how to clean a suede sofa doesn’t have to be intimidating. With the right approach and tools, you can enjoy the look and feel of suede without the stress.
To sum up:
- Identify the material
- Use the correct cleaning method
- Act quickly on stains
- Regularly maintain with vacuuming and brushing
And remember, investing in quality furniture from a trusted supplier makes all the difference. Browse our collection of suede sofas, corner sofas, and other home furniture. Visit our blog for more home care tips, including How to style cushions on a sofa: simple tricks for a cosy look, and more.
Author: Dako Furniture Team