Suede is a leather that is made from the bottom portion of an animal's skin. It is popular in jackets and coats, as well as gloves and boots. While not as durable as regular leather, it is a lot softer. Suede ages differently from regular leather. For instance, suede has a tendency to fade faster. If your black suede has started to fade, there are steps you can take to restore your suede to its original appearance.
Things You'll Need
Clean cloths
Pencil eraser
Nail file
Pot
Suede brush
Black suede dye
Suede conditioner
Suede protector
Pillowcase
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Step 1
Remove any dry stains from the suede. Using a soft cloth, rub the stained area for at least two minutes. The stain will begin to fade. Then take the pencil eraser and continue to rub the area to remove any remaining residue of the stain. If the stain is very resistant, you may need to rub it with a nail file. Be gentle when rubbing so you don't damage the suede.
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Step 2
Clean the suede. Heat a pot of water on the stove. When the water starts to boil, hold the suede over the steam for about a minute. Then take a brush and lightly brush the steamed area. Continue steaming all areas of the suede and then brushing.
Step 3
Dye the faded areas. Apply the commercial suede dye according to the manufacturer's instructions. Allow to dry. Then brush the suede lightly, covering all areas.
Step 4
Apply a suede conditioner. This protects the suede from cracking. Pour a small amount onto a clean, dry cloth and rub into the suede. Cover all areas of the suede, following the manufacturer's instructions.
Step 5
Apply a suede protector. This is usually sprayed on and will protect the suede from rain and snow. Follow the manufacturer's instructions. Allow to dry.
Step 6
Store newly restored suede in a clean pillowcase. This allows the suede to breathe. Never use a plastic bag for storage. Make sure suede is stored in a dry area of the house, away from direct light, to prevent fading.
Warning
Do not allow the suede to become wet from the boiling water.
Be extremely careful around boiling water.
Keep children away when using the boiling-water method.