How to Take Care of a Suede Bag

Suede is the inner layer of genuine leather, known for its soft, velvety surface created by fine natural fibers. Unlike dense, waxed Crazy Horse leather – made from the outer layer and prized for its structure and characterful aging – suede is all about flexibility, lightness, and rich, breathable texture.
It feels warm, soft, and inviting – smooth yet slightly fuzzy, with a matte finish that catches the light just enough. Its airy texture makes it wearable year-round, while the natural, muted tones pair easily with almost any look.
For our products, we use only genuine suede with a protective finish. In simple terms, this means the surface doesn’t shed, absorb dust, or soak up moisture easily (though it’s important to note: finished suede is water-resistant, not waterproof). It won’t stain your clothing, and you can easily wipe it clean with a damp microfiber cloth. Compared to untreated suede, it holds color longer, is more stain-resistant, and much easier to care for.
Suede has a reputation for being high-maintenance – but we've tested every tip ourselves to find what works, what doesn't, and how to care for it stress-free. Now, we want to share this knowledge with you – because suede really is wearable every day, and we hope you'll love our suede bags as much as we do.
What suede doesn’t like:
- Excessive moisture,
- Alcohol, acetone, antiseptics, wet wipes,
- Oily products (like hand creams),
- Rough friction or scrubbing,
- Heat from radiators, hair dryers, or direct sunlight,
- Plastic bags for storage.
What suede appreciates:
- Microfiber cloths,
- Soft-bristled brushes,
- Suede erasers or clean, soft rubber erasers,
- Breathable fabric storage bags,
- Water-repellent sprays made for suede.
Daily Care
Gently wipe the surface with a slightly damp microfiber cloth to remove dust. Avoid using regular wet wipes, as they often contain alcohol, which can damage the protective layer.
If you desire a neat and plush look for your suede, brush it gently in one direction with a soft-bristled brush. A horsehair brush works best, though it's optional. This technique also helps smooth out light scuffs or marks.
Removing Stains
For dry dirt, use a suede eraser or a soft brush to gently lift it away.
To tackle greasy stains, apply cornstarch, baking soda, or talcum powder. Allow it to sit for 2–3 hours in a dry, shaded area, then brush off gently. For best results, follow up with a suede eraser to refresh the surface.
How to Dry Suede Properly
Finished suede resists light moisture but isn’t waterproof. If it gets soaked, blot off any excess water and avoid direct heat.
Never dry suede near a radiator or with a hair dryer – this can make the texture stiff. Instead, fill the bag with soft paper (like napkins) and let it dry naturally in a well-ventilated space, away from sunlight.
If Suede Feels Stiff
To restore a stiff suede texture, hold the bag or suede area about 6–8 inches away and expose it to steam for 1–2 minutes. Do not soak the material; instead, allow the steam to gently relax the fibers. Once dry, use a soft brush to restore the plush texture.
Storage Tips
To help your bag keep its shape and protect the suede from dust and fading, fill it with paper and store it in the cloth bag we include with every suede bag.
Avoid using plastic bags, as suede requires airflow, and trapped moisture can lead to mold formation.
Preventive Care
Every few months, lightly treat your bag with a water-repellent spray designed for suede. Always test on a discreet area first to make sure it doesn’t alter the color or texture.
Although some people remain hesitant about investing in suede, you understand the secret – it's not as demanding as it may seem. With a bit of care, the experience is all reward. And as suede bags continue to be one of the biggest fashion trends of 2025, there's no reason to wait.