INTRODUCTION: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT SUEDE JACKETS
Suede jackets are a staple in the winter wardrobe. They give you that extra layer of protection against the cold and they look great with all outfits.
Suede leather jackets come in a variety of colors and styles. You can choose from a long, short, or cropped length. Some have zippers or buttons while others have a collar with a belt to cinch the waistline.
There are many different types of suede jackets to choose from. You can find those with an all-over print, some with zippers on the sleeves, others that are cropped with pockets on the front and back.
The price of suede jackets varies as well depending on what you’re looking for in terms of style and function. If you’re looking for something more affordable but want to stay warm this fall or winter season suede jackets are great.
THE BEST WAYS TO STORE YOUR SUEDE JACKET
Keeping your suede jacket clean and free from wrinkles is not an easy task. There are many ways to store a suede jacket.
The first way to store a suede jacket is by using a garment bag. Garment bags are made of nylon, polyester or cotton and they have a zipper in the front that can be closed completely to keep the suede jacket clean and free from dust.
The second way to store a suede jacket is by using shoe boxes. Shoe boxes are made of cardboard, and they have elastic bands on the bottom which can be used for keeping shoes inside them. Shoe boxes can also be used for storing jackets, sweaters, or other garments that need extra protection from dust or dirt.
The Third way to store your suede jacket is to hang it up. This will keep it from getting creases and wrinkles on the fabric. If you have a closet with a rod, this is the perfect place for your jacket.
HOW OFTEN SHOULD I CLEAN MY SUEDE JACKET?
The frequency of cleaning your suede jacket can vary depending on usage and exposure to elements. Here are some general guidelines:
Regular Maintenance: Lightly brush your suede jacket with a suede brush after each wear. This helps remove surface dirt and prevents the buildup of stains.
Seasonal Cleaning: Perform a deeper cleaning every 6 months to a year, or sooner if you notice stains or odours. Follow the cleaning steps mentioned earlier in the article using a suede cleaner or specialized product.
Stain Removal: Address stains promptly. The longer a stain sits, the more difficult it can be to remove. Refer to the stain removal section in this article for specific guidance.
By following these guidelines, you can keep your suede jacket looking its best and prolong its lifespan.
HOW TO CLEAN A SUEDE LEATHER JACKET
Step 1: This involves preparing the Jacket
Gently tap or brush the jacket to shake off the loose dirt.
Use a padded hanger to hang it to maintain its shape during cleaning.
Step 2: Using a Suede Brush for Cleaning
It is important to get a soft-bristle suede brush (or a crepe brush) for cleaning.
Gently brush in one direction to eliminate the dirt on the surface.
Regular brushing can help eliminate the accumulation of dirt and dust.
To tackle deeper stains, brush more firmly back and forth, but ensure that you do not overdo it.
Always test a small inconspicuous area first before brushing the entire jacket.
Step 3: Stain Removal
This is how you can tackle different kinds of marks:
• Water Stains:
Gently rub the stained area evenly.
Allow it to dry naturally away from heat or sunlight.
Air drying is ideal for your suede jacket.
• Oil or Grease Marks:
Sprinkle cornstarch or talcum powder on the stain and allow it to sit overnight.
Brush off the powder the next morning.
• Scuffs and Shiny Spots:
Scuffs and shiny spots can be cleaned using a suede eraser or a clean pencil eraser.
Rub gently, then brush with the suede brush.
Step 4: Deodorizing (Optional)
Sprinkle a little baking soda inside the jacket and allow it sit for a few hours.
Shake or use a vacuum to remove the baking soda.
Step 5: Protect It
After the jacket is clean and dry, apply a suede protector spray to safe guard it against future stains and water damage.
Protector sprays are important as they create a barrier that helps keep away water, dirt, and stains and this helps preserve the appearance and longevity of suede jackets.
Important Points to Remember
Avoid the use of water directly on suede.
Avoid soap or general leather cleaners, as they can stain or harden the suede.
Never use a washing machine or dryer.
You can clean your suede jacket at home for light dirt, but for major stains or deep cleaning, leather care professional or dry cleaner is the safest move.
HOW TO POLISH YOUR SUEDE JACKET TO KEEP IT LOOKING NEW
A suede jacket needs to be polished regularly to maintain its appearance. The most common type of polish is a suede leather product. These products can be found in shoe stores or online.
The most important thing to remember when buying suede jacket polish is the color of the jacket. If it’s brown, go for a brown polish and if it’s black, go for black polish.
WILL SNOW RUIN A SUEDE JACKET?
Suede jackets can indeed be sensitive to moisture, including snow. To protect your suede leather jacket in snowy conditions, consider the following tips:
Prevention: Apply a suede protector spray before wearing your jacket in snowy weather. This will create a protective barrier that helps repel moisture and stains. Be sure to reapply the protector periodically, as it can wear off over time.
Avoid Prolonged Exposure: While it's okay to wear your suede jacket in light snow or drizzle, try to avoid prolonged exposure to heavy snowfall or rain. If you get caught in a snowstorm, shake off any excess snow immediately and allow the jacket to air dry naturally, away from direct heat sources.
Cleaning: If your jacket does become wet, don't panic. Gently blot the excess moisture with a clean, dry cloth, and then hang the jacket in a well-ventilated area to dry. Avoid using direct heat sources like hairdryers, radiators, or heaters, as they can cause the suede to crack or stiffen. Once it's dry, use a suede brush to restore the nap and texture.
Remember that prevention is key to maintaining your suede jacket's appearance in snowy conditions.
WHAT IF SUEDE JACKET FADES?
A suede jacket is a great item to have in your wardrobe. It can be paired with anything, from jeans to a dress. But what happens if it starts to fade?
It's important to know that the fading process varies depending on how you take care of your jacket. If you want to maintain the color for as long as possible, then you should avoid wearing it in the rain or washing it too often. And use a suede polish for it.
SUEDE JACKET HARDENING
While suede jackets can become stiff or hardened if exposed to moisture or extreme temperature changes, this is not a common issue. Nevertheless, here's how to address it if it happens:
Allow Natural Drying: If your suede jacket becomes wet, allow it to air dry naturally at room temperature. Do not use heat sources as they can worsen the hardening issue.
Brush and Restore: Once the jacket is dry, use a suede brush to gently restore the texture and softness. Brush the suede in the direction of the fibers to revive its natural appearance.
Professional Restoration: If the hardening is severe or persists, consider taking your jacket to a professional suede cleaner or a leather specialist who can provide expert care and advice.
Remember that prevention is the best approach to avoid suede jacket hardening. Store it properly and protect it from excessive moisture or extreme temperatures.
HOW TO PATCH AND REPAIR?
Luckily, there are many ways to repair a torn suede jacket. One way is using an iron and wax paper. First, place the wax paper over the tear so that it covers it completely and then use an iron on low heat to seal the wax paper onto the tear. This will prevent any more tearing from happening. Another way is using some fabric glue or tacky glue on top of the rip and then using your hands to press down on both sides of the rip until it sticks together again. The fabric glue or tacky glue will act as an adhesive to make sure it is intact.
HOW DO YOU FIX A WET SUEDE JACKET?
If your suede jacket is wet, you can use a hair dryer to dry it. It will take a while, but the heat will help evaporate the water and dry the material.
You can also try to use a paper towel or cloth to dab off as much moisture as possible before putting your jacket in front of an electric fan. The more moisture that is removed, the less likely your suede jacket will shrink.
CONCLUSION
Regular maintenance is key; a suede brush and occasional spot cleaning can keep your jacket looking fresh. For deeper cleaning, follow our guidelines every 6 months to a year or as needed, depending on your wear and environmental exposure.
Remember, prevention is often the best strategy. Applying a suede protector spray, avoiding prolonged exposure to extreme conditions, and prompt stain removal can go a long way in preserving your suede jacket's natural beauty.
Lastly, don't hesitate to seek professional assistance when necessary. Whether it's repairing tears, addressing hardening issues, or handling stubborn stains, experts can provide tailored solutions to keep your suede jacket looking as good as new.
With these tips and a little care, your suede jacket can continue to be a versatile and fashionable companion for many seasons to come.
