How to Remove Sunblock from Suede Recliner

Table of Contents:

You Will Need
Steps to Remove the Sunblock
Additional Tips and Advice

Linda asked: How do I clean sunblock off of a suede recliner. My granddaughter got a hold of sunblock and dumped it on the chair. I cleaned off as much as possible with a plastic card, but I’m not sure how to clean the rest. Do I go buy upholstery cleaner, or use some things from home?

Suede is a leather product that is very difficult to keep clean, especially if it hasn’t been properly protected. If you find an oily or greasy stain, such as sunblock, on your suede furniture, the most important thing you should do is NOT use water. Water will simply spread an oily stain over suede, so try this instead.

You Will Need:

Leather Degreaser
Vacuum cleaner

Steps to Remove the Sunblock:

Cover the surrounding unstained areas before you begin. This can be done with plastic or soft cloths.
Shake the can well. Then, spray the stain from a distance of about 12” working from the inside of the stain outward.
Allow the leather degreaser to sit on the stain and dry to a white powder.
Vacuum the dry powder away.
Repeat as needed until the stain is fully lifted.

Additional Tips and Advice

If the powder dries to a yellow hue, that means there is still more oil or grease to be lifted away. Repeat the process until the powder is no longer yellow, and the stain is gone.
Leather degreaser is a solvent based cleaner. Follow all label directions for use and storage, including those for proper ventilation.
For best results, follow up with a product designed to protect suede.
For methods to remove oily residue from suede with home products, see our guide How to Remove Oil Stains from Suede.