About Suede

Features

Suede is thinner, lighter, softer and more pliable than standard, full-grain leather. It is also usually less expensive. Because it is porous and thin, it is cooler than standard leather and synthetic materials; this is especially beneficial in the case of suede shoes. Suede-soled shoes allow a controlled level of sliding, which makes the material popular among ballroom and swing dancers.

Nubuck is often confused with suede and is a very similar material. Nubuck is made by brushing the skin side of the hide, whereas the flesh side is brushed in suede. Since the outer side of the hide is more durable, nubuck lasts longer than suede and is more easily cleaned.

Microsuede is a type of fabric that is manufactured to resemble suede leather. It is a knit blend that is, unlike suede, quite elastic. Microsuede is easier to clean but significantly less durable than real suede.

Many people believe that suede is difficult or impossible to clean. This is not the case. In general, suede can be cleaned quite easily and inexpensively at home using a suede brush, eraser and if necessary, suede degreasing product. Professional cleaning is recommended in cases when suede has been stained by difficult to remove substances such as red wine and ink.

Because of its easily damaged nap and porous nature, suede is quite absorbent. This makes it easily stained and damaged by hard use. Suede also tends to retain odors since it cannot be laundered but only surface cleaned. When suede becomes wet, it tends to become quite stiff. Correcting this nearly always requires professional cleaning.

Suede tends to lose its nap from normal use, which creates shiny spots on the surface of the material. These are not difficult to repair with the right tools. A stiff suede brush works in most cases, but suede can also be effectively resurfaced using fine sandpaper. Always brush or sand suede in one direction when restoring the nap, and use a light touch.