Rather interestingly, the term suede is derived from the French “gants de Suede”. This just means “the gloves of Sweden”, something most people would never suspect. Suede merely brings to mind the soft leather with which nearly everyone is familiar.

Suede is formed from the hide of one of various animals. Most suede is made from the hides of goats, lambs, calves, or pigs. In this case, as the hide is considerably thinner than a cowhide, the underside of the hide is used. The texture is soft and supple. Suede made from the hides of these smaller animals is fine, and is used to make handbags and garments such as gloves, pants, shirts, jackets, shoes, and skirts. As the upper layer of the hide is still attached to this suede, it is fairly durable, although all suede is easy to stain.

The hides of cows and deer are also used to make suede, although in this case the process is different. Because the hides of these animals are thick, the hide must be split to create suede. The suede created from splits is not as fine in texture as that made from the previously mentioned animals, and will be somewhat shaggy and rough. Suede made in this fashion also tends to be weaker, as it does not have the upper layer of the hide to provide strength.

Because suede is porous, it is easy for it to become dirty or stained. Even water can cause a stain on suede. The best thing to do is to apply a protective spray designed for suede to your suede items before use. However, if the suede does become soiled or stained, there are ways to help restore it to its previous condition.

To begin cleaning your suede item you should first raise the nap by rubbing the suede with a towel. Do this gently, do not scrub hard, you might damage the suede. Once this has been done, take an eraser to the dirt or stain. This should not be a pink eraser, but preferably one designed for suede or an artist’s gum eraser. Using an eraser will often be enough to loosen up dirt and remove at least some of the stain. If the results are still not satisfactory, vinegar can sometimes be used to get rid of a stain. However, before you use this where it will show, do a test on the underside of the item, or in a spot where it will not show if the vinegar bleaches out the suede.

For really stubborn dirt or stains, it would be best to have the suede cleaned professionally. Never use petroleum products or dry cleaning products on your suede items, these can ruin them completely.