Yes, you can clean
fake suede with water, but you need to be careful about how you do it. Fake suede, made from synthetic materials like polyester, is generally more water-resistant than real suede, but that doesn’t mean you can soak it or use water carelessly.
Using a small amount of water is safe for light cleaning. For example, if there’s a small stain from a drink or dirt, a damp cloth with a little water can gently wipe it away. The key is to use cold or lukewarm water, not hot. Hot water can damage the synthetic fibers, making the fake suede shrink, lose its texture, or even fade in color. So always stick to cool water when cleaning.
You should also avoid using too much water. Drenching
fake suede can make it take a long time to dry, and during that time, the material might stretch or warp. For instance, a fake suede couch cushion soaked in water could end up misshapen, with lumpy areas that don’t look nice. Instead of pouring water directly, dip a cloth in water, wring it out well so it’s just damp, and then gently blot the stain—don’t rub hard. Rubbing too much with water can push dirt deeper into the fibers or cause the material to pill, creating little fuzzy balls on the surface.
Another thing to remember is that some fake suede has a coating to keep its soft texture or color. Using too much water, especially with harsh rubbing, can wear away this coating, making the fake suede look dull or rough. So even though water is safe, moderation is important. After cleaning with water, let the fake suede air dry naturally in a cool place. Don’t put it in direct sunlight or use a heater to speed up drying, as heat can still damage the material.
In short, water is a useful tool for cleaning fake suede, but only when used in small amounts, with cool temperatures, and gentle wiping. It’s not a good idea to soak
fake suede or use hot water, as that can cause damage. With the right approach, water can help keep your fake suede looking clean without harming it.