Have you ever looked at a stain and wondered if you could get your suede shoes cleaned again? Well, it’s easier than you think!
Suede shoes are stylish and classy, but keeping them clean is necessary. Whether heading to a business meeting or a nice dinner, you don’t have to show up with dirty shoes.
Keep reading to explore the best ways to clean suede shoes and bring them back to life!
Before starting, gather these tools:
Wait for the dirt on your shoes to dry completely before starting. Cleaning a damp stain can push the dirt deeper into the fabric.
Use a suede brush to remove the dirt gently. Brush in a single direction to lift the nap (the soft fibers) and avoid damaging the material.
Use a suede eraser to rub minor stains. Gently rub the eraser over the stain, then use a suede brush to smooth the fabric and remove any eraser shavings.
If the scuff is still visible, repeat the process 1–2 more times until it’s fully removed. If you don’t have a suede eraser, a clean pencil eraser can work in a pinch without marks or stains.
Dampen a microfiber cloth with white vinegar or rubbing alcohol and blot the affected area. Don’t scrub; instead, use press and lift. Air-dry your shoes completely before proceeding.
If the stain still persists, use vinegar 1-2 times again until the stains get lighter.
Use your suede brush or a clean toothbrush to buff out scuffs lightly. This will restore the shoe’s softness and make it look smooth and neat.
After cleaning, brush the shoes again to restore their soft, velvety texture. Once they are dry, apply a protective suede spray to prevent future stains and water damage.
Use a suede brush to gently remove dirt and dust, especially around seams where dirt often builds up.
For tough stains, use a suede eraser. For stains that persist, soak a microfiber cloth with white vinegar and dab the area gently. Do not soak too much because the excess moisture may cause the stain to become discolored.
Sprinkle cornstarch over fresh oil stains to absorb grease. Let it sit for an hour, and brush it off. Repeat as necessary for persistent spots.
After cleaning, use a waterproof protectant spray to protect your shoes from dirt and moisture.
Remove the laces. Insert a shoe tree or stuff your shoes with clean paper to maintain their shape while you work. Use a suede brush to lightly sweep away loose dirt. Always brush in the same direction to avoid damaging the material.
For mild stains, mix equal parts white vinegar and water. Dampen a microfiber cloth with the solution and dab the affected area carefully—don’t soak it! For stubborn scuffs, use a suede-specific cleaner or a melamine sponge.
Once the shoes are dry (air drying is important), brush them again with your suede brush. This process raises the nap and gives the material its signature velvety finish.
Spray on a suede protectant to protect your shoes from dirt and water in the future.
Let your suede shoes dry completely at room temperature if they get soaked. Avoid using direct sunlight or heat, which can warp the material. Once dry, brush off any dirt or watermarks.
Sprinkle cornstarch over the stain and let it sit overnight to absorb the oil. The next day, brush off the residue with a suede brush.
Harden the gum or wax by rubbing it with an ice cube in a plastic bag. Once hardened, gently scrape it off with a credit card edge, then brush the area.
Cleaning suede shoes is quite easy. Simple habits such as brushing off dirt and using protective spray make all the difference.
By following these above methods, you should maintain the soft, classy look of your suede shoes without hassle. It all depends on being gentle as well as consistent in this care routine. So take a little time to pamper them and enjoy their elegance for years!
No, soap and water can damage the delicate fibers of suede. Stick to specialized cleaners or white vinegar.
How do you clean white suede shoes without discoloring them?
Always test any cleaner on a small, hidden area first. Use gentle blotting motions to avoid spreading stains.
What’s the best way to protect suede shoes?
Use a high-quality protective suede spray regularly to protect against stains and moisture.
