Suede jackets are a stylish and fashionable addition to our wardrobe. However, suede is a delicate material that requires special care to maintain its appearance and longevity. Can you dry clean suede jackets? Yes, dry cleaning is the best way to clean a suede jacket. Machine washing can damage the suede material and ruin the jacket.
Here are some tips for dry cleaning suede jackets:
- My Favorite Method: I like to use eClean Advanced Fabricare, which is an online eco-friendly dry cleaning service that fully sanitizes your suede jacket without washing it in a machine. Unlike traditional dry cleaners, eClean does not use harmful chemicals and they do not use heat to dry. I find that this provides the best results in maintaining the natural texture and insulating qualities of my jacket. Click here to learn more about this service.
- Traditional Dry Cleaners: You can also use a local, traditional dry cleaner. Some dry cleaners specialize in cleaning suede. If you can find a local dry cleaner that has extensive experience with suede jackets, this will be a bonus. Suede requires a specialized cleaning process to remove stains and dirt without damaging the material.
- Identify Stains: It’s important to point out any stains or areas that need special attention to the dry cleaner before leaving your jacket with them. Failure to do so may result in these areas not getting the proper attention they need during the cleaning process.
- Spot Clean at Home: Caring for your suede jacket with simple spot cleaning methods at home throughout the year can help preserve and prolong its life. This is a short-term solution and eventually a deeper clean by a professional is needed. Click here to read more about how to spot clean a suede jacket at home.
Suede jackets are an investment, and caring for them properly can save you from having to buy a new one. In this article, we’ll discuss dry cleaning suede jackets in more detail, and also discuss how to take simple steps throughout the year to care for your suede jacket at home to ensure that it remains looking fresh and in good condition.
| Issue | Summary Explanation |
|---|---|
| Dry cleaning a suede jacket | The safest and most effective method, but can be expensive and time-consuming. Some dry cleaners specialize in cleaning suede. |
| Machine washing or tumble drying | Not recommended as it can damage the material and cause shrinkage or discoloration. |
| Cleaning a suede jacket at home | Possible, but risky and potentially damaging to the material. Professional cleaning is recommended for best results. Spot cleaning at home throughout the year is helpful. |
| Cost of dry cleaning a suede jacket | Can vary depending on location, but typically ranges from $30 to $70. The cost is higher compared to other cleaning methods, but it ensures the safest and most effective cleaning results. |
Dry Cleaning Suede Jackets
Can You Dry Clean a Suede Jacket?
Yes, you can dry clean a suede jacket. In fact, dry cleaning is the preferred method of cleaning suede jackets because it removes stains and dirt without damaging the delicate material. Unlike other fabrics, suede cannot be washed in a washing machine or dried in a dryer because it can damage the fibers and cause discoloration.
When you dry clean a suede jacket, it’s important to take it to a professional dry cleaner who has experience cleaning suede. Suede requires a specialized cleaning process that involves using a solvent-based solution to remove stains and dirt without damaging the material. The dry cleaner will also use a special brush to restore the texture of the suede after cleaning.
No Heat Dry Cleaning
There are eco-friendly dry cleaners that don’t use harmful chemicals or heat to dry clean suede jackets (which can extend the life of the jacket). For example, I like to use eClean – you can simply mail them your jacket and they will clean it using these less-harmful methods. When I used them, they offered free round-trip shipping which was a bonus.
The eClean method uses a “Recycled Liquid CO₂ dry-cleaning” that is more eco-friendly than traditional dry cleaning. They use a unique No-Heat Dry process to protect your jacket and provide fully sanitized jackets that remain exceptionally fluffy. Click here to learn more how to use this no-heat service to dry clean suede jackets.
How Much Does it Cost to Dry Clean a Suede Jacket?
The cost of dry cleaning suede jackets varies depending on the dry cleaner and your location. On average, you can expect to pay between $30 and $70 to have your suede jacket professionally dry cleaned locally. However, if your jacket has a lot of stains or requires special treatment, the cost may be higher.
Pros and Cons to Dry Cleaning Suede Jackets
There are several pros and cons to dry cleaning a suede jacket. Let’s take a look at some of them:
Pros:
- Dry cleaning is the safest and most effective way to clean suede.
- Dry cleaning removes stains and dirt without damaging the material.
- Professional dry cleaners have experience cleaning suede and can restore the texture of the material.
Cons:
- Dry cleaning can be expensive.
- Some dry cleaning solvents may be harmful to the environment.
- Dry cleaning can take several days, which means you may have to go without your jacket for a while.
Tips for Cleaning Suede Jackets at Home
Cleaning a suede jacket at home can be challenging, as suede is a delicate material that requires special care. You should not machine wash a suede jacket (it will damage the material).
However, spot cleaning your jacket with the right tools and techniques can help keep it clean and looking fresh throughout the year. Here are some tips for spot cleaning a suede jacket at home:
- Brush the jacket – Use a soft-bristled brush to remove any loose dirt or debris from the suede. Brush in one direction to avoid damaging the material.
- Treat stains – If your suede jacket has any stains, use a suede eraser to gently rub the stain. Be sure to use a light touch to avoid damaging the material.
- Steam the suede – Use a handheld steamer if needed to try and loosen stubborn dirt and stains.
- Dry the jacket – Try to avoid using water, but if your jacket does become wet in certain spots, make sure it is allowed to properly air dry in a well-ventilated area. Do not use a hairdryer or other heat source to dry the jacket, as this can damage the material.
- Restore the nap – Once the jacket is dry, use a suede brush or a soft cloth to restore the nap of the suede. Brush in one direction to avoid damaging the material.
It’s important to note that cleaning a suede jacket at home is not without risk. If you are unsure about how to clean your suede jacket, or if it has any serious stains or damage, it’s best to dry clean suede jackets with a professional that has experience. A professional cleaner can help to ensure that your suede jacket is cleaned safely and effectively, without damaging the material.
Can You Machine Wash a Suede Jacket?
No, you should never machine wash a suede jacket.
Machine washing can cause the material to shrink, fade, or lose its texture. The agitation of the washing machine can also cause the suede to become matted or damaged. If your suede jacket becomes dirty, it’s best to take it to a professional dry cleaner for cleaning.
Can You Tumble Dry a Suede Jacket?
No, you should never tumble dry a suede jacket.
Tumbling can cause the suede to become misshapen and lose its texture. The heat from the dryer can also cause the material to shrink or fade. It’s best to air dry your suede jacket by hanging it up in a well-ventilated area. Dry cleaning suede jackets is best practice.
How to Prevent Suede Jackets from Staining
To protect your suede jacket and help prevent staining, there are several things you can do. First, consider applying a protective spray or treatment to your jacket.
Suede protectants are available at most shoe or leather stores and can help repel water and stains. However, it’s important to test the protectant on a small, inconspicuous area of the jacket before applying it more broadly, as some protectants can alter the appearance or texture of the suede.
Another way to protect your suede jacket is to be mindful of how you wear and store it. Avoid wearing your jacket in rainy or snowy weather, as moisture can damage the suede. If you do get caught in the rain, gently blot the jacket with a clean, dry cloth as soon as possible and then let it air dry.
When storing your jacket, make sure it is in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, as sunlight can fade the color of the suede. It’s also a good idea to store your jacket in a breathable garment bag to prevent dust and dirt from settling on the suede.
While applying a stain prevention product can help protect your suede jacket, it’s important to note that no treatment can completely guarantee against staining. If your jacket does get stained, it’s best to have it cleaned by a professional cleaner to avoid causing further damage. Regular cleaning and maintenance can also help keep your suede jacket looking its best and prolong its lifespan.
What Types of Suede are Easiest to Clean?
Some types of suede may be easier to clean than others, depending on various factors. For example, nubuck suede, which is created by sanding the outer layer of leather, has a shorter nap and a tighter grain than other types of suede. This makes it less prone to staining and damage, which can make it easier to clean.
Another factor to consider is whether the suede has a protective finish. Some suede jackets may come with a protective finish that makes them more resistant to stains and water damage, which can make the suede easier to clean and maintain.
High-quality suede that has been tanned properly may also be easier to clean and maintain, as it tends to be more durable and resistant to damage. Regardless of the type of suede, it’s important to take proper care when cleaning and maintaining your suede jacket.
Dry cleaning suede jackets is the best way to clean your jacket. Machine washing and tumble drying should be avoided because they can damage the material. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and consider consulting a professional cleaner if you are unsure about how to clean your suede jacket.