Cleaning fake suede is not hard, but it needs the right steps to keep it looking good. Here’s how to do it properly. First, start with dry cleaning for loose dirt. Use a soft brush, like a suede brush or a clean toothbrush, and gently brush the surface. This removes dust, crumbs, or hair that’s stuck to the fake suede. Brushing in one direction helps keep the texture smooth—rubbing back and forth might make it look messy.

For small stains, like spilled coffee or dirt spots, use a damp cloth. Get a clean cloth, dip it in cold water, and wring it out until it’s just slightly damp. Then, gently blot the stain. Blotting means pressing the cloth on the stain and lifting it up, not rubbing in circles. Rubbing can push the stain deeper into the fibers or make the fake suede pill. If the stain is a bit stubborn, you can add a tiny drop of mild soap to the water—something gentle like dish soap or baby shampoo. Mix it lightly, then blot again with the soapy water, by a clean damp cloth to wipe away the soap.

For bigger or oil-based stains, like grease from food, you can try a dry cleaning powder. Sprinkle a little powder over the stain and let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes. The powder will absorb the oil. Then, brush it away with a soft brush. This works better than water for oil stains, as water can spread oil around. Never use harsh chemicals like bleach or strong detergents—they can fade the color or break down the synthetic fibers of fake suede.

After cleaning, let the fake suede dry completely before using it again. Lay it flat on a clean towel in a cool, shaded place. Don’t hang it up to dry, as this can stretch the material. Keep it away from direct sunlight or heat sources like radiators, which can make it shrink or stiffen. Once it’s dry, use the soft brush again to gently fluff up the fibers—this brings back the soft, fuzzy texture that makes fake suede look nice.

It’s also important to clean stains as soon as you notice them. The longer a stain sits, the harder it is to remove. For items like fake suede shoes or jackets, you can also use a specialized faux suede cleaner from the store, but always test it on a small, hidden area first to make sure it doesn’t damage the material. With these steps, you can keep your fake suede clean and looking good for a long time.