Leather and suede are expensive materials, so buying clothes and shoes in these materials can set you back a few pennies. As you’ve paid so much for the clothing, it’s understandable that you want to keep each item in as perfect shape as possible. Unfortunately, though, both leather and suede are incredibly difficult to clean. Even though they are very durable, cleaning them in washing machines and a lot of water can damage the material. So what can you do when your favorite leather jacket or suede shoes get dirty and need to be freshened up? Here are five useful tips on how to properly clean leather and suede.
Don’t Use Water
Water can cause significant damage to both leather and suede. If you get some dirt, such as soil, on your clothes, it is important not to be tempted to wipe the dirt away with a damp cloth. The best thing you can do is get rid of the muck by lightly rubbing with a dry towel.
Use Cornflour
But what if you need to remove a wet stain, like oil or sweat? You can’t use water, but there is something else that will work just as good. Cornflour! Spread a layer of cornflour onto the mark and leave it for a couple of hours.The cornflour lifts the stain out of the material. Then all you need to do is wipe away the flour with a soft brush.
Steam Clean Leather
It is important not to use any water at all on suede. However, leather can cope with a little. The best way to limit the amount of moisture to your leather jacket or handbag is to steam clean it. This is also an excellent way to ensure your leather sofas are left hygienic.
Pencil Erasers
You know how you can rub out a mistake on paper with a pencil eraser? Well, these handy little items also work well on suede and leather. But they only work their magic on dry stains, though. So next time you notice a mark on your suede or leather clothes, grab your kid’s eraser. Gently rub the mark until it starts to disappear. Be careful not to be too rough. Otherwise, you could end up damaging the material.
Seek Professional Help
If all of the above steps fail and you still can’t get rid of your stains and marks, take your suede and leather items to a professional cleaner. They will be able to clean your garments for a very competitive price. Many professionals can clean suede and leather extremely quickly. You can usually have your clothes back within twenty-four hours.
Dirty leather jacket or muddy suede shoes? Don’t despair! As you can see, there are plenty of ways you can wash your leather and suede without using a washing machine! And if all else fails, call your local professional cleaner. They can always help you get out of a sticky situation with your hard to clean materials no matter how dirty they are!
