Faux suede furniture adds a touch of luxury and comfort to any home with its soft, velvety texture and elegant appearance. However, maintaining that pristine look can be challenging when faced with everyday spills, pet hair, and general wear. The good news? Unlike genuine suede, faux suede (also called microsuede or ultrasuede) is more forgiving when it comes to cleaning—but it still requires proper care to keep it looking its best.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about cleaning and maintaining your faux suede furniture, from routine care to tackling stubborn stains using simple household ingredients like vinegar and baking soda.
What is Faux Suede?
Before diving into cleaning methods, it’s important to understand what you’re working with. Faux suede is a synthetic material designed to mimic the look and feel of genuine suede leather but at a fraction of the cost and with increased durability.
Composition and Benefits
Faux suede is typically made from polyester microfibers that are woven to create a soft, plush surface that resembles natural suede. This synthetic construction offers several advantages:
- Water resistance: Unlike genuine suede, faux suede has some inherent water resistance
- Stain resistance: The tight weave helps prevent liquids from immediately soaking in
- Durability: More resistant to fading and wear than natural suede
- Pet-friendly: More forgiving with pet claws and easier to clean pet hair
- Cost-effective: Significantly less expensive than genuine suede
Understanding these properties helps explain why faux suede requires different cleaning approaches than natural suede furniture.
Before You Start: Check the Manufacturer’s Tag
Before attempting any cleaning method, always check the furniture care label. It usually includes a cleaning code that provides important guidance:
- W: Water-based cleaner safe
- S: Solvent-based cleaner safe
- WS: Both water and solvent cleaners are safe
- X: Vacuum only; no liquids
This information will help you determine which cleaning methods are safe for your specific piece of furniture.
Essential Supplies for Cleaning Faux Suede
Having the right tools on hand makes cleaning faux suede furniture much easier. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Microfiber cloths (non-abrasive)
- Soft-bristled brush or suede brush
- Vacuum with upholstery attachment
- Mild dish soap
- White vinegar
- Baking soda
- Rubbing alcohol
- Spray bottle
- Cornstarch (for grease stains)
- Suede-specific cleaner (optional)
Most of these items are likely already in your home, making faux suede maintenance quite accessible and affordable.
Routine Maintenance: Preventing Major Cleanings
The best way to keep your faux suede furniture looking great is through regular maintenance, which can prevent the need for deep cleaning.
Weekly Care
- Vacuum regularly: At least once a week, vacuum your faux suede furniture using the upholstery attachment. This removes surface dust, crumbs, and pet hair before they can settle into the fabric.
- Brush the surface: After vacuuming, gently brush the fabric with a soft-bristled brush in one direction to restore the nap (the raised fibers that give suede its characteristic texture).
- Rotate cushions: If possible, flip and rotate removable cushions weekly to ensure even wear.
Immediate Spill Response
When accidents happen, quick action is essential:
- Blot (don’t rub) any liquid spills immediately with a clean, dry microfiber cloth
- Work from the outside of the spill inward to prevent spreading
- For solid spills, gently scrape away excess with a spoon or dull knife
- Follow up with appropriate spot cleaning as needed
This prompt attention to spills can prevent permanent staining and make your eventual cleaning tasks much simpler.
How to Clean Faux Suede Furniture: General Cleaning
For regular maintenance cleaning when your furniture isn’t stained but just needs refreshing, follow these steps:
Step 1: Prepare the Furniture
- Remove all cushions, throws, and accessories
- Vacuum thoroughly using the upholstery attachment
- Pay special attention to seams, crevices, and between cushions where debris collects
Step 2: Basic Cleaning Solution
For general cleaning, make a gentle solution:
- Mix 1-2 drops of mild dish soap with 2 cups of warm water
- Beat the mixture until it creates light suds
- Remove most of the suds (you want the solution nearly foam-free)
Step 3: Cleaning Process
- Slightly dampen (not wet) a microfiber cloth with the solution
- Test on a hidden area first to ensure no discoloration occurs
- Working in small sections, gently wipe the surface using circular motions
- Follow immediately with a clean, dry microfiber cloth to remove excess moisture
- Allow the furniture to air dry completely
Step 4: Restore the Nap
Once dry, use a soft brush to restore the texture by brushing in one direction.
Cleaning Faux Suede Furniture with Vinegar
White vinegar is an excellent natural cleaner for faux suede due to its disinfecting properties and ability to neutralize odors.
Vinegar Cleaning Solution
- Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle
- For stronger cleaning power, use 2 parts vinegar to 1 part water
Cleaning Process with Vinegar
- Lightly mist a small area (don’t saturate)
- Gently scrub with a soft-bristled brush or microfiber cloth
- Blot with a clean, dry cloth
- Allow to air dry completely
- Brush to restore the nap
This method is particularly effective for deodorizing faux suede furniture that has developed a musty smell or for refreshing pieces that have been in storage.
How to Clean Faux Suede Furniture with Baking Soda
Baking soda is excellent for removing odors and absorbing grease from faux suede surfaces.
Baking Soda Method
- Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda over the entire surface
- Gently work it into the fabric with a soft brush
- Let it sit for at least 20-30 minutes (overnight for strong odors)
- Vacuum thoroughly using the upholstery attachment
- Brush the surface to restore the texture
This method is perfect for furniture that has absorbed cooking odors, smoke, or pet smells, and is especially helpful when you need to clean a suede couch that smells unpleasant.
How to Clean Faux Suede Furniture in a Washing Machine
Washing machine cleaning is only an option if your furniture has removable covers that are specifically labeled as machine-washable.
Machine Washing Steps
- Remove the cover carefully
- Check the care label to confirm it’s machine-washable
- Set your washing machine to a delicate cycle with cold water
- Use a mild detergent (avoid bleach)
- Let the cover air dry completely (never machine-dry, as heat can damage faux suede)
- Replace slightly before fully dry to maintain shape
Handling Specific Stains on Faux Suede Furniture
Different types of stains require specific approaches for effective removal without damaging the fabric.
Water-Based Stains (Juice, Coffee, Wine)
- Blot immediately with clean, dry cloths to absorb as much liquid as possible
- Mix equal parts white vinegar and water
- Dampen a cloth with the solution and blot the stain (don’t rub)
- Alternate with a dry cloth to absorb moisture
- For coffee or wine, consider adding a small amount of dish soap to the solution
Oil-Based Stains (Grease, Makeup, Body Oils)
- Sprinkle baking soda or cornstarch on the stain and let sit for 15-20 minutes
- Vacuum away the powder
- Apply a small amount of rubbing alcohol to a cloth and gently dab the stain
- Blot with a clean, dry cloth
- Repeat if necessary
Ink Stains
- Dampen a cotton ball with rubbing alcohol
- Gently dab (don’t rub) the ink stain
- Blot with a clean, dry cloth
- Repeat until the stain lifts
Pet Stains and Odors
- Blot up any fresh accidents immediately
- Mix equal parts white vinegar and water
- Spray lightly on the area
- Blot with clean cloths
- Once dry, sprinkle baking soda generously over the area
- Let sit for several hours or overnight
- Vacuum thoroughly
Home Remedies for Cleaning Faux Suede
If you prefer natural solutions, try these additional home remedies:
Cornstarch for Grease Stains
- Sprinkle cornstarch liberally on the greasy area
- Let it sit for at least an hour to absorb the oil
- Brush off gently
- Vacuum the area thoroughly
Lemon Juice and Baking Soda Paste
For stubborn odors and mild discolorations:
- Mix lemon juice with baking soda to form a paste
- Apply to the affected area
- Let it dry completely
- Brush off gently and vacuum
Deep Cleaning Faux Suede Couch
For occasionally deep cleaning your entire faux suede couch to remove accumulated dirt and oils:
Method 1: Manual Deep Clean
- Vacuum the entire couch thoroughly, paying attention to seams and crevices
- Mist the entire surface with a water and mild soap solution
- Scrub gently with a suede brush or a soft sponge
- Wipe down with a clean, damp cloth to remove soap residue
- Allow to air dry completely
- Brush to restore nap
Method 2: Steam Cleaning
Despite what some might advise, many faux suede fabrics can be safely steam cleaned:
- Check the manufacturer’s tag to confirm steam cleaning is safe
- Use the upholstery attachment on your steam cleaner
- Keep the steamer moving across the surface (never let it sit in one spot)
- Use minimal moisture and allow for complete drying
- Brush the nap once dry
Method 3: Suede-Specific Cleaner
Commercial cleaners designed specifically for faux suede can be very effective:
- Choose a cleaner labeled for use on microsuede/faux suede
- Test in an inconspicuous area first
- Apply according to manufacturer directions
- Allow to dry completely before using the furniture
What is the Best Cleaner for Faux Suede?
While household items work well for most situations, some commercial products are specifically formulated for faux suede:
- Bissell Professional Spot & Stain Fabric Cleaner
- Scotchgard Suede and Nubuck Cleaner
- Chemical Guys Fabric Clean Upholstery Shampoo
The best cleaners for everyday use are:
- Mild dish soap diluted in water for general cleaning
- White vinegar for disinfecting and odor removal
- Rubbing alcohol for spot treating tough stains
Always test any new product in an inconspicuous area first.
Preventing Damage and Maintaining Appearance
Prevention is always easier than cleaning. Here are some tips to keep your faux suede furniture looking its best:
- Place furniture away from direct sunlight to prevent fading
- Use throws or slipcovers in high-use areas or when pets are present
- Consider applying a fabric protector specifically designed for faux suede
- Establish a “no eating on the couch” rule to minimize food stains
- Keep pets’ nails trimmed to prevent snags in the fabric
- Rotate cushions regularly to ensure even wear
- Address spills immediately before they set in
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best cleaner for faux suede?
Mild dish soap diluted in water is safe and effective for general cleaning. For heavier stains, dedicated suede cleaner sprays are ideal. White vinegar and rubbing alcohol work well for specific cleaning needs.
How do you clean a faux suede couch?
Clean a faux suede couch by first vacuuming to remove loose debris, then using a gentle cleaning solution of mild soap and water applied with a microfiber cloth. For deeper cleaning, consider steam cleaning (if manufacturer approved) or using a specialized faux suede cleaner.
Is faux suede hard to clean?
Not at all! Faux suede is actually easier to clean than genuine suede. Its synthetic fibers are more resistant to water and stains, and it can withstand a wider range of cleaning methods. With prompt attention to spills and regular maintenance, faux suede furniture can maintain its appearance for many years.
How to clean a suede couch that smells?
To eliminate odors from a faux suede couch, first vacuum thoroughly, then either sprinkle baking soda liberally across the surface and leave overnight before vacuuming, or spray lightly with a 50/50 vinegar and water solution. For persistent odors, consider steam cleaning if approved by the manufacturer.
Final Words
Faux suede furniture offers style and comfort without the high-maintenance demands of genuine suede. With regular care and prompt attention to spills, your faux suede pieces can remain beautiful for years to come. The key is understanding the material’s properties and using gentle, appropriate cleaning methods that preserve the texture and appearance of the fabric.
By incorporating weekly maintenance into your cleaning routine and having the right supplies on hand for treating unexpected spills and stains, you can enjoy your faux suede furniture without worry. Remember that this synthetic material is far more forgiving than natural suede, giving you more cleaning options without risking damage.
Whether you’re dealing with everyday dust, pet hair, or challenging stains, the methods outlined in this guide will help you keep your faux suede furniture looking fresh, clean, and inviting for family and guests alike. Just remember: Always check the care label, act quickly on spills, and use gentle techniques to preserve that soft, velvety finish for years to come.
Suggested Additional Visuals:
- Infographic: “5 Easy Steps to Clean Faux Suede Furniture”
- Chart: “Best Household Items vs. Commercial Products for Cleaning Faux Suede”
- Image Series: Before and after shots of cleaning various stains on faux suede
