Whether you’re rocking sleek suede boots or trendy trainers, maintaining their pristine look doesn’t have to be complicated. Suede shoes effortlessly combine style, comfort, and a touch of luxury, but let's face it—they can be magnets for dirt and stains. Whether you're stepping out in your go-to suede boots or those eye-catching suede sneakers, keeping them in top condition is key. But fear not! Maintaining your suede footwear doesn't have to be a daunting task. With a few essential tools and consistent care, your suede footwear can stay fresh and fabulous for years. The secret lies in a few simple yet effective strategies that will help you know how to clean your suede shoes and keep them looking fresh and fabulous.
Tools and Materials Required for Cleaning Suede Shoes
Like any good woodchopper, you need a sharp axe to get started. Here are some of tools to have your suede shoes clean.
- Suede brush: This special brush helps you gently clean the surface of the suede without damaging it.
- Eraser (or suede cleaning block): For removing marks and scuffs but is only effective for the top layer.
- Suede Cleaner (Liquid Cleaning Solution): To deep clean suede by removing dirt and grime that may be embedded deeper into the material.
- White vinegar or rubbing alcohol: This can be a magical solution for some stains.
- Paper towels or a cloth: To dry things off after cleaning.
- Waterproofing Spray: This protective spray helps create a barrier on the suede, preventing water, stains, and dirt from penetrating the material. It helps maintain the appearance and longevity of suede items.
- Shoe trees (optional): These are perfect for keeping the shape of your shoes while you clean them.
How to Clean Suede Shoes without Suede Cleaner
When your shoes have only accumulated light dirt or dust from everyday wear, or you notice small scuffs or marks, you don’t need to go to a suede cleaner. In a pinch, you can also clean suede shoes without specialized suede cleaner liquid by using household items like white vinegar or rubbing alcohol. Before you get started with cleaning, ensure the shoes are dry to better identify stains & dirt.
Start with a soft brush (a suede brush or a toothbrush will also do) and gently remove loose dirt and debris from the surface. Don’t be too harsh, as that may cause the suede to lose its softness and leave behind flattened fibers.
Use a suede rubber or a regular pencil eraser to remove remaining marks. Buff the eraser free of any existing stains first. Apply a smooth back-and-forth motion. Do not apply heavy pressure. Be gentle. Most dry stains should be out by now. For the ones that have been left, we move to white vinegar or rubbing alcohol.
Dip a clean cloth into white vinegar or rubbing alcohol, ensuring the cloth is not drenched. Delicately dab the damp corner against the stain, massaging it into the suede. Do not rub. Dab only. Ensure the suede doesn’t get completely wet and let it dry in between applications.
Once the stain seems gone, pass some steam (no hot water), over the surface for about 20 seconds. Brush the shoe once the steam has passed and let it dry.
After cleaning, revitalize the texture of the suede by roughening it in one direction with a suede brush or brass brush to restore its natural nap. Apply a suede protector spray to prevent future stains.
How to Clean Oil/Grease Stain from Suede Shoes
The simplest solution to clean an oil stain from suede is by applying a generous layer of corn starch or baking soda. Apply a generous amount to completely cover the oil stain. Allow it to sit for at least an hour, or ideally overnight, to absorb the oil. Then, gently scrape or brush off the powder with a stiff-bristled brush. Repeat for better results.
You can also use a suede brush and eraser to lift the oil. Rub the eraser back and forth in a circular motion. Brush away any residue with the suede cleaning block. For tougher stains, consider using a specialized suede soap like Saphir Omnidaim or KIWI Suede & Nubuck Cleaner or Gommadin Suede Cleaning Block.
For set-in stains, apply white vinegar or rubbing alcohol to a clean, dry cloth and gently blot the stained area. Allow it to air dry completely and then use a suede brush to wipe away any residue.
How to Clean Suede Trainers
Trainers might require some extra bit of effort as they might encounter sweat and grime from rough usage that typical trainers go through. Suede trainers usually have more fabric or other materials around them, so be careful not to get those wet or use too much cleaning solution. Trainers also get worn on the soles more, so make sure to clean the soles and the inside too. Use a lightly wet sponge to clean the interior, especially if there’s any odor or sweat.
Tips to Maintain your Suede Shoes
Suede shoes can last for years if you treat them right. To keep them looking their best, it’s important to follow a few simple rules. Here are some do’s and don’ts to help you take care of your beloved suede shoes.
Do’s
- Use a suede brush to keep your shoes looking fresh. Brushing gently in one direction helps maintain the soft texture and prevents dirt from building up.
- Invest in a suede protector spray and use it on your shoes every few months or when they start looking a little dull. This will help repel water and stains, keeping your shoes safe from spills and rain.
- If your suede shoes get wet, let them dry naturally at room temperature. Don’t use direct heat, like a radiator or hair dryer, as it can ruin the texture and shape of the suede.
- When you’re not wearing your suede shoes, store them in a cool, dry place. Shoe trees are great for helping your shoes maintain their shape. Alternatively, you can stuff them with tissue paper to keep them from losing their form.
- Address any stains right away! The quicker you act, the easier it is to remove marks. Use a suede eraser or a mixture of white vinegar and water for spot cleaning.
- Use shoe trees to ensure the shoes retain their shape. This helps keep the shoes looking new for a longer time.
Don’ts
- Suede doesn’t like water! Always try to avoid getting your shoes wet, especially in the rain. If you can’t avoid it, use a waterproofing spray to protect your shoes in advance.
- Avoid regular leather cleaners. These can damage the material. It’s better to stick to suede-specific cleaners or natural solutions like white vinegar and water for stains.
- When cleaning stains, don’t rub the suede too hard. Suede is delicate, and vigorous scrubbing can damage the fibers. Always be gentle and patient.
- Avoid storing suede shoes in damp, humid environments, as moisture can cause mildew and damage the material. A dry, cool closet is ideal.
- Sunlight can fade and dry out suede, causing it to lose its softness. Avoid leaving your shoes out in direct sunlight for prolonged periods.
- While it's good to maintain the shape of your shoes, avoid overstuffing them with paper or other materials. Too much stuffing can stretch or distort the shape of the shoes.
- Try not to wear the same pair of suede shoes every day. Giving them a break between wears helps keep the material from getting worn out too quickly.
With a few essential tools and consistent care, your suede footwear can stay fresh and fabulous for years. Start by brushing off dirt with a dedicated suede brush after each wear—this simple habit prevents grime from settling into the material. For stubborn stains, a suede eraser or a gentle cleaner like Omni'Nettoyant works wonders. To protect your shoes from water and stains, invest in a high-quality waterproofing spray, applying it monthly for optimal results. Don’t forget cedar shoe trees for storage—they help maintain shape and absorb moisture. By adopting these easy practices, you’ll not only extend the life of your suede shoes but also keep them looking effortlessly chic.
While these techniques work wonders for cleaning suede shoes, tackling white sneakers is a whole different challenge. That’s why we’ve created a dedicated guide on How to Clean White Leather Sneakers—check it out!