Suede leather is loved for its soft, velvety texture, setting it apart from smooth leather. But behind this elegance lies a delicate material that requires specific care. In this article, you'll find everything you need to know about suede leather: what defines it, how it differs from genuine suede or nubuck, and how to look after it day to day.
Suede is made by working the inner side of an animal hide, giving it that distinctive matte, slightly fluffy appearance. Soft, warm, and versatile, it is used for bags, shoes, clothing, and accessories alike. Its sensitivity to water, stains, and wear, however, make it a material that deserves your full attention.
What Exactly Is Suede Leather?
Suede is often confused with genuine suede (from deer) or nubuck, yet each material has its own characteristics:
- Suede: made from the inner side of the hide, offering a soft, supple, and lightweight texture.
- Nubuck: worked on the outer side of full-grain leather, slightly thicker, rougher, and more durable.
- Split leather / velour: similar to suede, but with a fibrous appearance on both sides.
The term "suede" today refers more to a finishing process (sanding the surface) than to a specific animal skin. It can be produced from calf, sheep, or pigskin depending on the intended use.
How to Care for Suede Leather?
Regular, appropriate care is needed so that your suede looks beautiful for years. Here are the essential steps:
- Before first use, apply a waterproofing spray to protect the material from moisture and stains. This is the single most important step.
- For everyday upkeep, dust with a soft-bristled brush following the grain of the leather.
- For embedded marks, use a crêpe brush to lift the nap and restore the velvety finish.
- For stubborn stains, a suede eraser applied locally is your best ally. For greasy stains (oil, etc.), use fuller's earth (a non-plastic clay) to absorb the grease.
- If the leather gets wet, let it dry naturally, away from any direct heat source (radiator, hair dryer). Never rub wet suede.
- For storage, keep your items away from light and humidity, ideally in a cloth bag.
Important: never use shoe polish, conditioner, or smooth leather cream on suede. These products are not suitable and can damage the velvety surface.
FAQ: Your Most Common Questions About Suede
Is suede leather waterproof?
No, suede is naturally porous and sensitive to moisture. Water can leave marks that are difficult to remove. Applying a waterproofing spray upon purchase — and reapplying it regularly — is strongly recommended to minimise this risk.
Suede and genuine suede: what is the difference?
The two terms are often used interchangeably in everyday language. Technically, genuine suede originally referred to the skin of deer or chamois, while "suede leather" is a broader term for any leather with a velvety finish made from the inner side of an animal hide.
Can you clean suede with water?
It's best to avoid it. Water alters the grain of suede leather and can leave rings. Opt instead for cleaning products specifically formulated for suede and nubuck, which are water-free.
Gusti Leather's Care Tips – Suede Leather
With the right steps and the right products, your suede leather item will be with you for many years to come:
- Its velvety texture stays soft and vibrant with regular care.
- A waterproofing spray applied at purchase will protect against most issues.
- A suitable brush is all you need for everyday upkeep — simple, quick, and effective.
Discover our complete range of suede leather care products, specially designed for your Gusti Leather bags and accessories.
