Faux suede, also known as ultrasuede or microsuede, has become a popular alternative to real suede. It offers a similar look and feel but often comes with a more budget-friendly price tag and better durability. But when spills and stains inevitably happen, can you simply toss that faux suede item in the washing machine? The answer is a bit nuanced, and this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about washing faux suede safely and effectively.
Understanding Faux Suede: What is it Made Of?
Before diving into washing instructions, it’s essential to understand the composition of faux suede. Unlike real suede, which is made from the underside of animal hides, faux suede is a synthetic fabric.
Faux suede is typically made from polyester microfibers woven or knitted together. This construction gives it a soft, napped surface that mimics the texture of genuine suede. The tightly woven nature of the fibers also contributes to its relative durability and stain resistance compared to its natural counterpart.
This synthetic composition is key to understanding how to clean it. Because it’s made from polyester, faux suede generally holds up better to water and cleaning solutions than real suede. However, not all faux suede fabrics are created equal, and some may have special finishes or backings that require extra care.
The Verdict: Can You Wash Faux Suede?
In most cases, yes, you can wash faux suede. However, it’s crucial to proceed with caution and always check the manufacturer’s care label before attempting any cleaning method.
The care label is your best friend. It will provide specific instructions for cleaning your particular item. Look for symbols or written instructions that indicate whether the item is machine washable, hand washable, or dry clean only.
If the care label allows for washing, the next step is to determine the best method based on the severity of the stain and the type of item. For minor stains, spot cleaning may be sufficient. For more extensive cleaning, hand washing or machine washing (when permitted) may be necessary.
Spot Cleaning Faux Suede: The First Line of Defense
Spot cleaning is the ideal approach for tackling small stains or spills on faux suede. It minimizes the risk of damage and prevents the need for more extensive cleaning.
Gather Your Supplies
You’ll need a few basic supplies for spot cleaning:
- A clean, soft cloth (microfiber cloths work well)
- Mild dish soap
- Water
- A spray bottle (optional)
- A soft-bristled brush (optional)
The Spot Cleaning Process
- Act quickly: The sooner you address a stain, the easier it will be to remove.
- Blot, don’t rub: Use a clean cloth to blot the stain gently. Rubbing can spread the stain and damage the fabric.
- Prepare a cleaning solution: Mix a small amount of mild dish soap with water. You can either dip your cloth into the solution or pour the solution into a spray bottle for easier application.
- Test in an inconspicuous area: Before applying the solution to the stain, test it on a hidden area of the fabric to ensure it doesn’t cause discoloration or damage.
- Apply the solution: Lightly dampen a clean cloth with the cleaning solution and gently blot the stain. Work from the outside of the stain inwards to prevent it from spreading.
- Rinse with clean water: Once the stain is removed, dampen a clean cloth with plain water and blot the area to remove any soap residue.
- Blot dry: Use a dry cloth to blot the area dry.
- Air dry: Allow the faux suede to air dry completely. Avoid using a hairdryer or placing it in direct sunlight, as this can damage the fabric.
- Brush the nap: Once dry, use a soft-bristled brush to restore the nap of the fabric. Brush in the direction of the fibers to maintain the suede-like texture.
Hand Washing Faux Suede: A Gentle Approach
If the care label indicates that your faux suede item is hand washable, this is a gentle and effective way to clean it. Hand washing is particularly suitable for delicate items or those with embellishments that could be damaged in a washing machine.
Gather Your Supplies
- A clean basin or tub
- Mild detergent (specifically designed for delicate fabrics)
- Cool water
- Clean towels
The Hand Washing Process
- Prepare the washing solution: Fill the basin or tub with cool water and add a small amount of mild detergent. Gently swirl the water to distribute the detergent evenly.
- Submerge the item: Turn the faux suede item inside out and submerge it in the soapy water.
- Gently agitate: Gently agitate the item in the water to loosen dirt and grime. Avoid rubbing or scrubbing, as this can damage the fabric.
- Soak (optional): For heavily soiled items, you can let them soak in the soapy water for up to 30 minutes.
- Rinse thoroughly: Drain the soapy water and refill the basin with clean, cool water. Rinse the item thoroughly until all traces of soap are gone.
- Gently squeeze out excess water: Gently squeeze out the excess water from the item. Avoid wringing, as this can damage the fabric.
- Roll in a towel: Lay the item flat on a clean towel and roll it up to absorb excess water.
- Air dry: Lay the item flat on a clean, dry surface to air dry. Avoid using a dryer or placing it in direct sunlight.
- Brush the nap: Once dry, use a soft-bristled brush to restore the nap of the fabric.
Machine Washing Faux Suede: When it’s Allowed
If the care label specifically states that your faux suede item is machine washable, you can proceed with caution. However, it’s essential to take extra steps to protect the fabric and prevent damage.
Prepare the Item
- Check for loose items: Empty all pockets and remove any detachable embellishments.
- Turn inside out: Turning the item inside out will help protect the surface of the fabric during washing.
- Use a laundry bag: Placing the item in a mesh laundry bag will provide an extra layer of protection and prevent it from snagging on other items in the washing machine.
Washing Machine Settings
- Use a gentle cycle: Select the gentlest cycle on your washing machine to minimize agitation.
- Use cold water: Always use cold water when washing faux suede. Hot water can damage the fabric and cause it to shrink or fade.
- Use a mild detergent: Use a mild detergent specifically designed for delicate fabrics. Avoid using harsh detergents, bleach, or fabric softeners, as these can damage the fabric.
Drying
- Avoid the dryer: It’s generally best to avoid placing faux suede in the dryer, as the high heat can cause it to shrink or damage the fibers.
- Air dry: If you must use a dryer, select the lowest heat setting and tumble dry for a short period. However, air drying is always the preferred method.
- Lay flat to dry: Lay the item flat on a clean, dry surface to air dry. Avoid hanging it, as this can stretch the fabric.
Finishing Touches
- Brush the nap: Once dry, use a soft-bristled brush to restore the nap of the fabric.
Addressing Common Concerns
While faux suede is generally more resilient than real suede, certain issues can arise during washing.
Color Fading
Color fading can occur if the fabric is exposed to harsh detergents, hot water, or direct sunlight. To prevent fading, always use cold water, a mild detergent, and air dry the item in a shaded area.
Shrinking
Shrinking can occur if the fabric is exposed to high heat. To prevent shrinking, always wash the item in cold water and avoid placing it in the dryer.
Loss of Softness
Washing can sometimes cause faux suede to lose its soft texture. To restore softness, you can try using a fabric softener (if the care label allows) or brushing the nap of the fabric after washing.
Stiffening
Sometimes faux suede can become stiff after washing. This can usually be resolved by brushing the fabric vigorously with a soft-bristled brush.
Alternatives to Washing
Sometimes, washing may not be the best option for cleaning your faux suede item. Here are some alternatives:
Dry Cleaning
Dry cleaning is a good option for delicate items or those with embellishments that could be damaged by washing. However, be sure to choose a reputable dry cleaner with experience cleaning faux suede.
Professional Cleaning
If you’re unsure about how to clean your faux suede item, you can always take it to a professional cleaner who specializes in fabric care.
Maintaining Your Faux Suede Items
Regular maintenance can help keep your faux suede items looking their best and prevent the need for frequent washing.
- Vacuum regularly: Use a vacuum cleaner with an upholstery attachment to remove dust and debris from the fabric.
- Protect from spills: Use a fabric protector spray to help repel spills and stains.
- Avoid direct sunlight: Direct sunlight can cause the fabric to fade or become damaged.
By following these tips, you can keep your faux suede items looking beautiful for years to come. Remember, always check the care label first, and when in doubt, err on the side of caution.
Can I machine wash all faux suede items?
Not all faux suede is created equal, and therefore, not all faux suede items are suitable for machine washing. Always check the care label on your garment or item first. This label will provide specific instructions from the manufacturer, indicating whether machine washing is permissible and outlining the recommended water temperature and cycle settings. Ignoring the care label could result in damage to the material, such as shrinking, discoloration, or pilling.
If the care label explicitly states “machine washable,” proceed with caution. Use a gentle cycle and cold water to minimize stress on the fibers. Consider placing the item inside a mesh laundry bag to protect it from abrasion against other items in the washing machine. Avoid using harsh detergents or bleach, as these can damage the faux suede. Air drying is generally recommended to prevent shrinkage or distortion caused by the high heat of a dryer.
What is the best way to remove stains from faux suede?
The key to successful stain removal on faux suede is to act quickly. Blot the stain immediately with a clean, dry cloth to absorb as much of the spill as possible. Avoid rubbing the stain, as this can spread it and work it deeper into the material. For liquid spills, continue blotting until the cloth comes away clean. For solid stains, gently scrape away any excess with a dull knife or the edge of a spoon before blotting.
For tougher stains, you can try a mild solution of dish soap and water. Dampen a clean cloth with the solution and gently blot the stain, working from the outside in. Avoid saturating the faux suede. Once the stain is removed, blot the area with a clean, damp cloth to remove any soap residue. Allow the area to air dry completely and then brush the nap gently with a soft-bristled brush to restore its texture.
Can I use steam to clean faux suede?
Yes, steam cleaning can be an effective method for refreshing and cleaning faux suede, particularly for larger items like furniture. The steam helps to lift dirt and grime without over-wetting the material. However, it’s crucial to use the steamer correctly to avoid damage. Use a low steam setting and keep the nozzle moving continuously over the surface of the faux suede.
Before steam cleaning an entire item, test the steamer on an inconspicuous area to ensure that the steam doesn’t cause discoloration or damage. After steaming, allow the faux suede to air dry completely. You may want to brush the nap gently with a soft-bristled brush to restore its texture and prevent it from becoming stiff.
What kind of detergent should I use for washing faux suede?
When washing faux suede, it’s important to choose a mild, gentle detergent specifically designed for delicate fabrics. Avoid using detergents that contain harsh chemicals, bleach, or brighteners, as these can damage or discolor the material. Look for detergents labeled as “gentle,” “delicate,” or “for sensitive skin.”
Powdered detergents can sometimes leave residue on faux suede, so liquid detergents are generally preferred. Use only a small amount of detergent, following the instructions on the detergent bottle. Too much detergent can be difficult to rinse out and can leave the faux suede feeling stiff or sticky. Consider using a detergent specifically formulated for faux suede if available.
How do I dry faux suede after washing?
The best way to dry faux suede after washing is to air dry it. Avoid putting faux suede in the dryer, as the high heat can cause it to shrink, melt, or become distorted. Hang the item on a padded hanger or lay it flat on a clean, dry towel in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight or heat.
As the faux suede dries, you can periodically brush the nap with a soft-bristled brush to help maintain its texture and prevent it from becoming stiff. Once the item is completely dry, brushing it again will help to restore its original look and feel. Ensure the item is completely dry before storing it to prevent mildew or mold growth.
How can I restore the nap of faux suede after washing?
After washing and drying, faux suede can sometimes lose its characteristic soft nap. To restore the nap, use a soft-bristled brush, such as a clothes brush or a suede brush. Gently brush the fabric in the direction of the nap, which is usually visible as a slight directionality to the fibers. Brushing helps to lift the fibers and restore their original texture.
If the nap is particularly matted or flattened, you can try steaming the faux suede lightly before brushing. The steam helps to loosen the fibers and make them more responsive to brushing. Be sure to use a low steam setting and keep the steamer moving to avoid over-wetting the material. Always allow the faux suede to dry completely after steaming and brushing.
Can I use a fabric protector on faux suede?
Yes, applying a fabric protector to faux suede can help to protect it from stains and spills. Fabric protectors create a barrier that repels liquids and prevents them from penetrating the material. Look for fabric protectors that are specifically designed for use on delicate fabrics or synthetic materials. Test the protector on an inconspicuous area before applying it to the entire item to ensure that it doesn’t cause discoloration or damage.
Follow the instructions on the fabric protector carefully. Typically, you’ll need to apply the protector in a well-ventilated area and allow it to dry completely. Reapply the fabric protector periodically, especially after washing or cleaning the faux suede. Fabric protectors can significantly extend the life of your faux suede items and keep them looking their best.