Suede is a gorgeous fabric that can last for many years if it is well cared for. If you’ve got a suede handbag and you’re looking for information on how to take great care of it, this is the article for you. Specifically we’ll discuss 6 tips for caring for your suede handbags. By the end of this article you will have a complete suede handbag care guide that you can refer to in order to keep your suede handbag in great condition for years to come.

6 Suede Handbag Care Tips & Tricks

1. Brush your suede handbag regularly. Purchase a good quality suede brush and use the brush on a regular basis. You should also brush your suede handbag right after you purchase it to remove any dust, dirt and lint that may have accumulated on it while it was in transport or on display at the store. The first time you use a new suede brush, choose a spot on your suede handbag that is inconspicuous, like under the shoulder strap, in case the brush is too stiff and leaves a scratch.
2. Waterproof your suede handbag. Suede handbags, particularly lighter color ones like a purple suede handbag will quickly show water spots. Purchase a good quality suede waterproof spray and apply it to your suede handbag according to the directions. Clean your purse before waterproofing it and reapply the waterproof spray each year before the rainy season.
3. Use suede cleaner only as a last resort. Many suede handbags come with a suede cleaner or recommend their use. However, unless you have a black suede handbag or a brown suede handbag, it’s not recommended because the suede cleaner can darken suede. If you do need to use the suede cleaner on a spot or stain, you should do a spot test in an unnoticeable area. Repeated use of suede cleaner can also make your suede handbag appear blotchy and spotted over time, so do not over use any suede cleaning product.
4. Keep your suede handbag dry. Water and heavy rainfall can make suede fabric stiff and misshapen. Even if you waterproof your suede handbag, try to keep it under your coat or umbrella if you’re going to be out in the rain for extended periods of time. Also, after returning home dry your handbag and brush it well to restore its nap.
5. Have your suede handbag professionally cleaned once a year. If you’ve got a red suede handbag or another vibrant color handbag, be sure to have it professionally cleaned. A professional cleaning will keep your suede handbag from developing mildew spots and will also extend the life of your handbag. Bright colors in particular will show mildew spots more than darker colors, so be sure to have them cleaned regularly.
6. Remove oil spots with talcum powder or cornmeal. If you’ve got a tough grease or oil stain, try using talcum powder or cornmeal to lift the oil. Sprinkle enough powder to cover the stain and let it sit for several hours. Lightly brush the suede with a clean cloth to remove the bulk of the powder, then use your suede brush to remove the rest. You may need to repeat the process a few times with stubborn stains.

Suede is a luxurious material and looks great as a suede handbag. Keep your handbag in excellent condition by following the six steps outlined above.