How to Get Rid of Pen Marks on a Suede Couch

Restore your suede couch to its previous glory.

Soft, supple and organic, having a suede couch is a definite treat and creates an instant focal point in a room. But with such a couch, there is of course an added responsibility. Suede is a particular and sensitive material that requires specific protocol when it comes to stains. If you've done some writing while relaxing on the couch and found that your pen has escaped the page, don't worry. You actually haven't marred your suede couch forever.

Things You'll Need

• 220-grit sanding block
• Handheld vacuum
• Cotton swabs
• Distilled white vinegar

Instructions

1. Hold a 220-grit sanding block by its edge and rub it back and forth across where the pen marks are. This removes the superficial pen marks that are just lightly on the suede. Avoid this approach with deeper pen marks, as you don't want to wear down the suede too much by creating a hole.

2. Run a handheld vacuum over the area to remove the dust from sanding.

3. Moisten a cotton swab with white distilled vinegar and dab it on the deeper ink stains. Wipe with a cotton ball and repeat until all the stains are gone. Allow it to air dry.

Tips & Warnings

• Use isopropyl alcohol if you don't have white vinegar.

References

• Made Man; How To Clean Pen From Suede Couches Wendy Johnson; Feb 2010
• "More Fabric Savvy: a quick resource guide to selecting and sewing fabric"; Sandra Betzina; 2004