Vintage Suede Care: A Step-by-Step Guide

Suede is one of the most beautiful and delicate textiles but it can also be one the most difficult to treat, so the key to longevity with your suede is damage prevention by treating it with a stain repellent. This protective barrier helps prevent water spots, oil marks, and everyday dirt from penetrating the delicate suede fibers.

For best results, choose a gentle, non-silicone stain repellent so it won’t alter the color, texture, or appearance of your bag. Here are two of my favorites:

SAPHIR Medaille – Waterproof Spray: A French-made luxury protector beloved by leather care experts. It’s very gentle and won’t affect the look and feel of the suede. 

Apple Brand Water & Stain Repellent: A more budget-friendly option that still offers excellent protection and is silicone-free too.

1. aLWAYS SPOT TREAT

Before treating the entire bag, spray a small, inconspicuous area—such as the underside of the strap or interior flap—and allow it to fully dry. This ensures the repellent won’t darken or discolor the suede.

2. APPLY THE STAIN REPELLENT EVENLY

• Hold the spray bottle 6–8 inches away from the surface.

• Work in light, even passes to avoid oversaturation.

• Apply two light coats instead of one heavy coat, allowing the first coat to dry completely before applying the second.

• Let the bag air dry in a cool, well-ventilated space—never near direct heat or sunlight.
  

R E F R E S H & C L E A N

Even with a repellent, suede will benefit from a gentle cleaning from time to time to keep it looking fresh and vibrant. Follow these easy steps below to refresh and clean your suede.

1. Brush Gently with a Horsehair Brush

A soft horsehair brush will loosen surface dirt and restore the grain (the soft, raised texture) of the suede. Use gentle, sweeping motions in one direction.

2. Use a Small Amount of Suede Cleaner

When deeper cleaning is needed, use a specialized suede cleaner. A little goes a long way so apply it very sparingly with a clean microfiber cloth using quick, short strokes to avoid over saturating. Remember: suede can stiffen and become brittle when wet, so less is more. 

Here’s a suede kit that includes the horsehair brush, microfiber cloth, and cleaner used above.

3. Remove Marks with a Suede Eraser & Nylon Brush

A suede eraser is a firm rubber block designed to lift light stains, scuffs, and shiny spots without damaging the grain.

Gently rub the eraser over the affected area in short, light strokes.

Follow with a nylon suede brush to lift the grain back up and blend the texture. Make sure to be very gentle with the nylon brush, especially with very soft suede such as that of a vintage Fendi.

4. Finish with a Lint Roller

After brushing, use a lint roller to collect any loosened fibers, dust, or residue, leaving your suede looking smooth and clean.

A Note on Stains

If you notice a specific or stubborn stain—especially on light-colored suede—contact your local cobbler or leather care professional before attempting at-home removal. Suede is incredibly delicate, and DIY stain treatments can sometimes make the mark worse or cause permanent damage.

Final Tip: With the right protection and gentle maintenance, your vintage suede bag can maintain its rich texture and beauty for decades. A little care now will preserve its elegance for years to come.

All products, linked here. 

Happy cleaning 

xx Iceqwn