Suede sofas made of leatherette or a synthetic material that is similar to the touch look stylish and modern. Suede is more durable than some other fabrics, but it is often difficult to maintain.

Suede is less resistant to stains and can accumulate dust and debris, which gives the sofa a rather unattractive look. The experts of Apartment Therapy told us how to clean a suede sofa on your own.

By following the correct cleaning steps and avoiding common mistakes, you can preserve the great look of suede furniture for many years. Here are step-by-step instructions on how to clean a suede sofa.

You will need:

• a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush;
• a microfiber cloth;
• suede stain remover;
• distilled white vinegar (optional);
• water
• dry cloth or paper towel;
• baking soda;
• a brush for suede;
• hair dryer

How to clean a suede sofa

Cleaning a suede sofa is not only about removing debris, but also about preventing damage to the material.

Avoid using chemicals, as many of them can cause discoloration and damage to the fabric. Excessive moisture can also be damaging, so do not splash water on the sofa and use a non-wrinkled cloth.

Step-by-step instructions

Step 1. The first step to cleaning any upholstery is to remove visible dirt, dust, and debris. Steven Yip, president of Boston-based cleaning company Cleanzen, recommends vacuuming the sofa with a soft vacuum cleaner brush. Do not forget about the crevices and the bottom of the cushions.

Step 2. Wipe the sofa with a damp cloth. Lightly dampen the microfiber cloth before use, removing as much water as possible. Then wipe the entire surface of the sofa.

Step 3. Remove all stains. The method of cleaning stains depends on the cause of their occurrence. Jennifer Rodriguez, Head of Hygiene at PRO Housekeepers, recommends using a special suede stain remover that will not damage the material. If you want to make your own cleaner, you should take distilled white vinegar and dilute it with water. Gently wipe the sofa with a damp cloth. But first, be sure to test the product on an inconspicuous area so as not to damage the suede.

Experts recommend gently rubbing off any particularly stubborn stains, such as ink or crayons, with a white eraser. Avoid using a pink eraser, as it can leave marks.

Blot oil stains first with a dry cloth and paper towel, and then sprinkle some baking soda on it. After a few hours, clean the area with a suede brush.

Step 4. Finally, use a hair dryer (set on a cool or slightly warm temperature) to dry the area you just cleaned. Rodriguez recommends using a soft suede brush to pre-raise the lint.

Earlier, OBOZREVATEL told you how to clean a velvet sofa: tips for different types of dirt.

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