Faux suede fabric offers the luxurious look and feel of genuine suede at a fraction of the cost and with added durability. Ideal for fashion, home décor, and DIY projects, this versatile material combines style, softness, and easy maintenance. Discover why fabric faux suede is a popular choice for savvy shoppers seeking elegance, practicality, and ethical alternatives to real leather.
Comparison Table: Types and Applications of Fabric Faux Suede
| Type / Variation | Fiber Content | Weight | Appearance & Texture | Primary Uses | Special Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Regular Faux Suede | 100% Polyester | Light/Medium | Velvety, soft, fine-napped surface | Apparel, light upholstery, crafts | Easy care, vegan, affordable |
| Microsuede | Microfiber Polyester | Light/Medium | Extremely soft, dense, smaller nap | Apparel (skirts, jackets), pillows | Wrinkle-resistant, pet-friendly |
| Heavyweight Faux Suede | Poly/Poly Blend | Heavy | Thick, sturdy, leather-like | Upholstery, drapery, cushions | Enhanced durability, FR options |
| Sensuede/Ultrasuede | Recycled Polyester | Medium/Heavy | Ultra-supple, high-performance | Automotive interiors, high-traffic | Eco-friendly, stain-resistant |
| Polyurethane Suede | Polyurethane Coated | Medium/Heavy | Smooth, more sheen, flexible | Footwear, bags, accessories | Water-resistant, vegan leather look |
| Treated Faux Suede | Poly/Blend w/ Coating | Varies | Similar to above, but with extra finish | Upholstery, commercial use | Stain & water-repellent finishes |
Types of Fabric Faux Suede
Faux suede, sometimes called micro-suede or synthetic suede, captures the elegant look and touch of genuine suede without using animal products. There are several variations, each with unique features to suit different needs:
1. Regular Faux Suede
- Made from tightly woven polyester fibers.
- Offers a classic suede-like nap, soft to the touch.
- Versatile, suitable for apparel, accessories, and light upholstery.
2. Microsuede
- Uses ultra-fine microfiber polyester for an even softer, denser surface.
- Lighter weight, with less stiffness than traditional faux suede.
- Wrinkle-resistant and highly popular for clothing, fashion accents, and comfortable pillow covers.
3. Heavyweight Faux Suede
- Contains thicker fibers or is woven with a higher density.
- Feels sturdy and robust.
- Perfect for high-wear applications like furniture upholstery, benches, or commercial drapery.
4. Sensuede / Ultrasuede
- Premium performance versions, often made with recycled polyester.
- Known for luxury feel and high durability.
- Widely used in automotive interiors, furniture for busy households, and commercial settings.
- Eco-friendly options available.
5. Polyurethane-Coated or Treated Faux Suede
- Includes a layer of polyurethane or a special stain-resistant finish.
- Offers additional protection against spills, stains, and wear.
- Suitable for accessories like bags, shoes, and high-traffic furniture or hospitality pieces.
Comfort and Feel
Faux suede is admired for its remarkably soft, velvety nap that mimics top-grade leather. Advances in textile technology have given faux suede the following comfort features:
- Breathability: Modern microfiber designs provide air flow, making the fabric comfortable for clothing and furniture alike.
- Softness: The finely brushed surface feels gentle against skin—ideal for garments or plush furnishings.
- Flexible Drape: Lightweight and midweight types drape well for apparel, while heavier versions give structure to upholstery and crafted items.
- Hypoallergenic: Unlike real suede, synthetic fibers can be less likely to harbor allergens or react with sensitive skin (check fiber specifics).
Tip: If you’re using faux suede for clothing, look for a lighter microsuede. For sofas or high-use upholstery, select a denser or performance-enhanced type.
Care Tips for Fabric Faux Suede
Faux suede is praised for easy maintenance compared to genuine leather, but a few best practices will help keep it looking new:
Routine Cleaning
- Dusting: Use a lint roller, gentle brush, or vacuum attachment to remove dust and debris.
- Spot Cleaning: Blot spills immediately with a dry, clean cloth. Most stains lift with mild soap and water—avoid oversaturation.
- Deeper Cleaning: Some products are machine washable (check label). If not, hand-wash or use upholstery shampoo, following the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Protection
- Stain Guards: Select pre-treated options or apply a fabric-safe, silicone-based waterproof spray for extra protection, especially on furniture.
- Avoid Excess Moisture: Although faux suede is more water-resistant than leather, pooling water or wetting can leave marks if left to soak.
- Brushing: To revive nap and remove residue, use a soft-bristled brush, moving in the direction of the grain.
Additional Tips
- Ironing: Use minimal heat and a pressing cloth if needed—direct high heat can damage the surface.
- Storage: Store raw fabric out of direct sunlight to prevent fading. Clothing made with faux suede should hang or be folded in a cool, dry place.
Choosing Faux Suede for Clothing and Home Uses
Faux suede’s versatility makes it a popular choice for many projects. Here’s how to select the ideal type for your needs:
For Clothing
- Jackets, Skirts, and Dresses: Look for lightweight microsuede; it drapes well and feels comfortable.
- Costumes and Cosplay: Microsuede and regular faux suede are both excellent; microsuede yields a softer, more flexible finish.
- Pants and Structured Garments: Choose a medium-weight for better shape retention.
For Accessories
- Bags and Shoes: Polyurethane-coated or treated faux suede offers superior water/stain resistance and durability.
- Hats and Scarves: Lightweight versions add luxury without bulk.
For Home Décor
- Pillows & Throws: Microsuede is cozy and easy to clean—great for homes with kids or pets.
- Curtains: Medium-weight faux suede provides a lovely drape and blocks some light.
- Upholstery: Heavyweight or performance faux suede (like Sensuede/Ultrasuede) is ideal for high-traffic furniture.
For Commercial, Automotive, and High-Traffic Use
- Commercial: Seek certified flame-retardant and heavy-duty faux suede options.
- Automotive Upholstery: Premium Sensuede/Ultrasuede is engineered for wear-resistance, stain-repellence, and longevity.
- Restaurants & Hotels: Choose stain- and water-resistant finishes.
Practical Tips and Best Practices
- Order Samples: Always request swatches to check color, feel, and compatibility before ordering in bulk.
- Match Weight to Purpose: Lighter fabrics are better for fashion; heavier grades for upholstery or crafts needing structure.
- Check Care Instructions: Some faux suede is machine washable; others require spot-clean care.
- Test Protection Sprays: Always test waterproof or stain-repellent sprays on an inconspicuous area first.
- Look for Eco Options: Choose recycled polyester types for a more sustainable purchase.
- Consider Colorfastness: Quality faux suede is usually fade-resistant, but check colorfast ratings for pieces exposed to sunlight.
- Layering: Combine faux suede with lining fabrics for added comfort in clothing or drapery.
- Purchase Sufficient Yardage: Slight color variation can occur between lots—order enough in one batch to prevent mismatches.
Technical Comparison Table: Key Attributes of Fabric Faux Suede
| Attribute | Regular Faux Suede | Microsuede | Heavyweight Faux Suede | Sensuede/Ultrasuede | Polyurethane-Coated/Treated |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fiber Content | Polyester | Microfiber Polyester | Poly/Blend | Recycled Polyester | Polyurethane/Poly Blend |
| Weight (oz/sq yd) | 4–7 | 3–6 | 8–12 | 7–12 | 8–12 |
| Water Resistance | Moderate | Moderate | Moderate/High | High | Very High |
| Stain Resistance | Moderate | High | High | Very High | Very High |
| Durability | Good | Good | Excellent | Excellent | Excellent |
| Stretch | Minimal | Minimal | None | Minimal | Variable |
| Machine Washable | Sometimes | Often | Seldom | Seldom | No (usually spot clean) |
| Typical Width | 54–60 inches | 54–60 inches | 54–60 inches | 54–60 inches | 54 inches |
| Eco-Friendly Option | Sometimes | Sometimes | Rarely | Often | Rarely |
| Common Colors | Wide range | Wide range | Neutral/Deep | Wide plus bold | Mostly neutrals |
Related Video
Conclusion
Fabric faux suede delivers the luxurious look and feel of real suede at a fraction of the cost—and with none of the animal cruelty. Advances in textile engineering mean you can now find faux suede in a dizzying array of weights, colors, and finishes to suit fashion, accessories, and home or commercial décor.
Whether your priority is comfort, durability, easy care, or ethical sourcing, there’s a faux suede option for you. Match the weight and treatment to your intended use, follow a few simple care tips, and enjoy the beauty and practicality of this versatile, modern textile.
FAQ
-
What is faux suede made of?
Faux suede is typically made from polyester microfibers, sometimes blended with polyurethane or other synthetic fibers. Some high-performance types use recycled polyester for an eco-friendly option. -
Is faux suede vegan and cruelty-free?
Yes! Faux suede uses no animal products, making it an ethical, vegan alternative to genuine suede leather. -
How does faux suede compare to real suede?
Faux suede mimics the soft, napped feel and sophisticated look of natural suede but is less expensive, easier to clean, more stain and water resistant, and does not require animal hides. -
Can faux suede be washed in the washing machine?
Some lightweight faux suede and microsuede products are machine washable, but always check the label. Heavier or treated types (like upholstery-grade) generally require spot cleaning only. -
Does faux suede stretch or lose shape?
Most faux suede has minimal stretch and holds its shape well. For fitted garments, use patterns with a little ease or add a lining. -
Is faux suede fabric durable for upholstery?
Yes, especially heavyweight or performance faux suede. These types withstand high traffic, resist stains, and are less likely to fade or show wear compared to real suede. -
How do I remove stains from faux suede?
Blot stains quickly with a dry cloth. For most messes, mild soap and water work well. Avoid soaking the fabric. For stubborn spots, use a specialized upholstery cleaner. -
Is faux suede suitable for homes with pets?
Microsuede and treated faux suede are popular in pet-friendly homes, as they repel hair and resist stains. They are easier to clean than many other upholstery fabrics. -
Will faux suede fade in sunlight?
Quality faux suede is more colorfast than leather. However, prolonged direct sunlight can cause fading, so use window treatments or place pieces out of harsh sun when possible. -
Are there eco-friendly options for faux suede?
Absolutely. Many top brands now offer faux suede made from recycled polyester or other post-consumer materials, making it a more sustainable choice for eco-conscious shoppers.