Cleaning Leather and Suede

TIPical Mary Ellen : Episode TIP-1012 -- More Projects »
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When cleaning a small surface stain on suede, brush with a soft suede brush, rubber brush or sponge.
Kelly Jenne explains the proper way to clean and care for leather and suede.


  • The first thing to know about caring for your leather and suede items is that they should always be cleaned per the label instructions--never with strong detergents you might have at your home.

  • When spot cleaning, always pretest care products in a hidden area to make sure they are compatible with the leather.

  • Try cleaning off a makeup stain by rubbing it with a stale piece of bread.

  • When cleaning matching items such as gloves or shoes, make sure they are cleaned at the same time to maintain the same color and texture.

  • Day-to-day care is very important in maintaining your purchase. For example, to protect collars of leather and suede garments, wear a scarf to prevent staining from perspiration or body oils.

  • Store your leather or suede items where the air can circulate around them and never in any extremes of heat, cold, wet or dry.

  • If your garment gets wet, let it dry away from any heat source to prevent staining.