Suede steering wheels are a favorite among car enthusiasts and racing drivers for a reason—they offer excellent grip, a luxurious feel, and a sporty look. Suede, however, is a fragile material that needs extra attention, unlike leather or plastic. Over time, it can become matted, shiny, or even stained due to oils from your hands, sweat, and general grime. If not cleaned regularly, suede can deteriorate and lose its signature texture.
In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the right way to clean a suede steering wheel so it stays soft, clean, and durable for the long haul.
How to Clean a Suede Steering Wheel: A Complete Guide
Why Does Suede Need Special Attention?
Suede is a type of leather made from the underside of the animal hide, giving it a soft, fuzzy finish. While it looks and feels great, suede is more porous than smooth leather, which means it easily absorbs dirt, oil, and moisture. Traditional leather cleaners or harsh chemicals can damage the nap (the fuzzy texture) or cause discoloration.
That’s why using the proper tools and technique is crucial.
What You’ll Need
Prior to beginning the cleaning procedure, collect the following materials:
- A soft suede brush (nylon or brass bristles work well)
- A clean microfiber towel
- Suede cleaner or a mild all-purpose interior cleaner (specifically safe for Alcantara or suede)
- Distilled water (if needed to dilute the cleaner)
- Optional: Foam sponge or suede eraser
Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning a Suede Steering Wheel
Step 1: Dry Brushing
To begin, restore the nap and carefully remove surface dirt using a suede brush. Brush in small circular motions or in one consistent direction. By doing this, embedded particles are lifted and the surface is ready for more thorough cleaning.
Tip: Avoid using too much force. Because suede is sensitive, vigorous brushing might cause it to deteriorate.
Step 2: Apply the Cleaner
Spray your suede or Alcantara-safe cleaner lightly onto a microfiber cloth or sponge—never spray directly onto the steering wheel. Suede can get oversaturated quickly, which could damage the material.
Using the moist towel, dab and wipe the wheel gently. Focus on one section at a time and use light pressure. If you encounter stubborn spots or oily areas, go over them in small circular motions.
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Step 3: Lift and Absorb Dirt
As the cleaner lifts the oils and grime, you’ll notice the cloth absorbing dirt. To prevent reapplying the dirt, use a fresh piece of the microfiber towel for every pass. For deeper stains, you may need a second pass or a suede eraser.
Gently massage the afflicted region with a suede eraser if you’re using one. It works similarly to a pencil eraser and can help remove embedded oils or shiny spots.
Step 4: Let It Dry
After cleaning, allow the steering wheel to air dry naturally. Avoid using heat or leaving the wheel under direct sunlight, as this can harden or fade the suede. Drying should take less than an hour in most environments.
Step 5: Restore the Texture
Once dry, use your suede brush again to gently lift the nap and restore the soft, textured feel. This step brings back the “like-new” look and enhances grip.
Maintenance Tips to Keep Suede Looking New
- Clean regularly: If you drive frequently, clean your suede wheel every 2–4 weeks.
- Wash your hands before driving: Oils from your hands are the main cause of suede deterioration.
- Avoid driving with lotions or creams on your hands, as these will transfer to the suede.
- Consider gloves: Driving gloves can extend the life of suede and stop oil buildup.
Final Thoughts
A clean suede steering wheel not only enhances the aesthetics of your car but also improves driving comfort and control. With the right care, your steering wheel can stay soft, grippy, and visually appealing for years.
Regular maintenance might seem like a small effort, but it goes a long way toward preserving that premium feel you fell in love with in the first place.