How to Clean Suede Shoes
Suede shoes can take almost any outfit to the next level with suede’s soft, buttery look and feel. However, suede is a delicate material that requires careful cleaning and maintenance to look its best. Due to its thin nature and soft fibers, known as the nap, suede absorbs liquids and dirt, leaving shoes looking grimy and shabby.
Warning: Always read the instructions on all suede cleaning products as well as the care instructions on your suede shoes before attempting to clean them.
Cleaning Suede Shoes – Materials
If you own suede shoes, you will want to purchase a suede cleaning kit to keep on hand for those little mishaps and spills that could have the potential to ruin your shoes irreparably if not treated right away.
Your suede cleaning kit should include a brush, eraser, and shampoo, all made specifically for suede items, as well as suede protector spray.
Cleaning Suede Shoes – Maintenance
Often, if you brush your suede shoes regularly and remove small dry spots as they occur, there will be no need to perform a complete, vigorous cleaning on your shoes.
First, use your suede eraser to spot-clean your shoes, removing any dried-on dirt or stains. Use the eraser like you would erase pencil from paper. Rub until the spot is gone.
Next, brush the eraser marks from the shoe. Repeat this process until the spot has vanished. Now, brush the entire shoe with firm, broad strokes to even out the nap.
Cleaning Suede Shoes – Shampooing
A specially formulated suede shampoo helps clean off stains and dirt that cover large areas of your shoes.
- Brush away all surface dirt, lint, and other materials from your shoes.
- Mix your shampoo with water according to package directions.
- Rub the shampoo into the shoe vigorously
- Rinse the shampoo from shoes when finished.
Cleaning Suede Shoes – Drying
Blot the shoes with a dry towel until all the moisture is absorbed.
Stuff crumpled newspaper inside of the shoes to help absorb the moisture.
Allow them to dry completely – at least 24 hours.
Finishing Touches
Once your shoes are completely dry, remove the newspaper and brush them. Make sure to spray the shoes with a protective spray every time you clean them.
References
- Cobbler’s Bench Shoe Repair – “Shoe Care.”
- Footfitter – “How to Clean Suede Shoes: Subduing Stubborn Scuffs and Stains.”
- Potter & Sons – “How to Clean Suede and Nubuck Using Suede Shampoo.”
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