Is It Safe to Wet Suede: Where's the Line Between Cleaning and Damaging the Material

Yes, suede can be cleaned using moisture. In fact, most stains can't be effectively removed without special cleaning agents. However, it's important to avoid soaking the material deeply.

Suede has an open nap structure and easily absorbs water. Excessive moisture can cause watermarks, stiffness, deformation, and uneven coloring.

That's why it's recommended to use special foaming cleaners for suede care. The foam effectively removes dirt from the surface and nap without allowing too much moisture to penetrate deep into the leather.

VELVETREINIGER is specially formulated for cleaning suede, velour, and nubuck. Thanks to its foaming formula, it gently cleans the material while preserving its natural texture.

How to Clean Suede Properly

• Remove dry dust and dirt with a brush.
• Apply VELVETREINIGER to a brush or sponge and thoroughly clean the soiled areas.
• After treatment, remove any remaining foam and dissolved dirt with a dry cloth or microfiber.
• Repeat the process if necessary.
• Allow the item to dry at room temperature.
• Once fully dry, lift the nap with a suede brush.

Avoid rinsing suede under running water, soaking it, or drying it near radiators or other heat sources.

What to Do If Your Suede Is Already Damaged

If suede becomes stiff, develops yellow stains, watermarks, or uneven color after getting wet or from improper cleaning, the material can often be restored.

Waterproofing treatments like LIPPE are used to protect suede from moisture. To restore softness and the leather’s fat balance, fat liquors such as Sauerfett SF10 and Freshoil are applied. There are also special products for removing stains, salt marks, and restoring color.

Each of these issues requires a specific approach, so detailed restoration recommendations for suede are covered in separate articles.