Suede shoes are a stylish addition to any wardrobe, known for their soft texture and sophisticated look. However, suede is also notorious for being difficult to maintain, as it easily attracts dirt and stains. Proper care and cleaning are essential to keep your suede shoes looking pristine.
In this blog, we will go over:
- What is Suede
- How do you clean suede shoes
- How to use a suede brush effectively
- Best way to clean suede shoes
- How to clean suede shoes without suede cleaner
- How to clean suede shoes with household products
- What is the best way to dry suede shoes
- How to Care for Suede Shoes
- How to clean white suede shoes
- How to clean black suede shoes
- Can you put suede shoes in the washer
What is Suede?
Suede is a type of leather made from the underside of animal hides, typically from lamb, goat, calf, or deer. Unlike regular leather, suede is not as durable and is more prone to damage from moisture and staining.
How do you clean suede shoes?
Essential Cleaning Supplies
Basic Tools and Products
To clean suede shoes effectively, you will need the following tools and products:
- Suede Brush: A special brush designed for suede, typically with soft bristles or rubber nodules.
- Suede Eraser: Also known as a suede block, this tool helps remove stains and scuffs.
- Clean, Dry Cloths: For wiping and blotting.
- White Vinegar or Rubbing Alcohol: Useful for treating certain stains.
- Cornstarch or Talcum Powder: For oil and grease stains.
Optional Extras
- Suede Cleaner: A specialized cleaning solution for suede.
- Protective Spray: To waterproof and protect suede shoes from stains.
- Conditioner: To keep the suede soft and supple
Step1: Assessing the Condition
Before you begin cleaning, take a close look at your suede shoes to assess the extent of the dirt and stains.
Step2: Pre-cleaning
- Remove shoe laces: Take off the shoelaces to ensure they don’t get in the way during cleaning.
- Stuff with Paper: Stuff crumpled paper or shoe trees inside shoes to help them maintain their shape while cleaning.
- Test a small area: Before using any cleaning product, test it on a small, inconspicuous area to ensure you will not damage or discolor the suede.
Step3: Removing Surface Dirt and Debris
Using a Suede Brush
A suede brush is your first line of defense against dirt and debris.
- Brush Gently: Use the suede brush to gently brush away surface dirt. Always brush in one direction to avoid damaging the suede.
- Use a Circular Motion: For stubborn dirt, use a gentle circular motion to lift the particles without pressing too hard.
- Brush Regularly: Make a habit of brushing your suede shoes regularly to prevent dirt from embedding deeply.
Using Erasers and Clothes
- Suede Eraser: For scuffs and minor stains, gently rub the affected area with a suede eraser. This tool helps lift dirt and restore the nap.
- Dry Cloth: Use a clean, dry cloth to wipe away any loosened dirt or debris. Blot, don’t rub, to avoid pushing dirt deeper into the suede.
Step4: Dealing with Different Stains
Water Stains
- Dampen the Area: Lightly dampen the stained area with a small amount of water. Use a clean cloth to blot the water into the suede evenly.
- Blot Dry: Blot the area with a dry cloth to absorb excess moisture.
- Brush: Once the suede is completely dry, use a suede brush to restore its texture.
Oil and Grease Stains
Oil and grease stains can be particularly challenging, but these steps can help:
- Apply Powder: Sprinkle cornstarch or talcum powder generously over the stain. These powders absorb the oil from the suede.
- Let it Sit: Allow the powder to sit on the stain for several hours, preferably overnight.
- Brush Off: Gently brush off the powder with a suede brush. Repeat if necessary.
Ink and Other Persistent Stains
Ink stains and other stubborn marks require a more targeted approach:
- Apply Alcohol or Vinegar: Dampen a clean cloth with white vinegar or rubbing alcohol and gently dab the stain. Avoid soaking the suede.
- Blot and Dry: Blot the area with a dry cloth and let it air dry completely.
- Brush: Once dry, use a suede brush to restore the nap.
Best way to clean suede shoes?
If the stain is more stubborn, you may need some Deep Cleaning Techniques to completely clean it.
Using Suede Cleaners
- Apply Cleaner: Follow the instructions on the suede cleaner. apply a small amount to a clean cloth or directly onto the suede.
- Work in Sections: Clean the shoes in small sections, using gentle circular motions.
- Blot Excess: Blot away any excess cleaner with a dry cloth.
- Let it Dry: Allow the shoes to air dry completely before brushing.
How to clean suede shoes without suede cleaner?
If it is a basic stain, you can use a Suede Brush, Erasers, and Cloths to clean it.
If you want a deep clean, try this suede cleaner alternative, which is also effective in removing stubborn stains.
- Vinegar Solution: Mix equal parts white vinegar and water. Dampen a cloth with the solution and gently clean the suede.
- Baking Soda: For deodorizing and light cleaning, sprinkle baking soda on the suede, let it sit for a few hours, and then brush it off.
How to clean suede shoes with household products?
- Brush Off Dirt: Use a soft-bristle brush or an old toothbrush to remove loose dirt and debris.
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Remove Stains: Gently rub the stain with a white eraser or a mixture of white vinegar and water (1:1 ratio).
Dab the mixture with a soft cloth and blot the stain without soaking the suede.
What is the best way to dry suede shoes?
Proper Drying Methods
Drying suede properly is crucial to prevent damage:
- Air Dry: Always let suede shoes air dry naturally. Avoid direct sunlight or heat sources, as they can cause the suede to shrink or crack.
- Use Paper: Stuff the shoes with paper to help maintain their shape and absorb excess moisture.
How to Care for Suede Shoes?
Applying Suede Conditioner
Conditioning suede helps keep it soft and prevents it from drying out:
- Choose a Conditioner: Use a conditioner specifically designed for suede.
- Apply Sparingly: Apply a small amount of conditioner to a clean cloth and gently work it into the suede.
- Let it Absorb: Allow the conditioner to absorb fully before brushing the suede to restore its texture.
Storage Tips
Proper storage can extend the life of your suede shoes:
- Cool, Dry Place: Store suede shoes in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
- Dust Bags: Use dust bags or pillowcases to protect the shoes from dust and dirt.
- Shoe Trees: Insert shoe trees to help maintain the shape and prevent creasing.
Regular Maintenance Routine
Incorporate regular maintenance into your routine to keep your suede shoes looking their best:
- Brush Regularly: Brush the shoes regularly to prevent dirt buildup.
- Spot Clean: Address stains and spills immediately to prevent them from setting.
- Protective Spray: Apply a protective suede spray to guard against water and stains.
How to clean white suede shoes?
White suede shoes are a stylish yet delicate addition to any wardrobe. Their light color makes them particularly susceptible to dirt, stains, and scuffs.
Proper cleaning and maintenance are essential to keep them looking fresh and pristine.
- Remove Surface Dirt: Gently brush the shoes with a suede brush or a soft-bristle brush to remove loose dirt and debris.
-
Treat Stains: For small stains, use a white eraser or a piece of white bread to gently rub the stain.
For tougher stains, apply a small amount of white vinegar or rubbing alcohol to a clean cloth and dab the stained area. Avoid soaking the suede. - Drying: Let the shoe air dry naturally. Avoid direct heat sources.
- Restore Nap: Once dry, brush the suede again with the suede brush to restore its nap and texture.
How to clean black suede shoes?
Cleaning Black Suede
Black suede requires extra care to prevent fading:
- Test in an Inconspicuous Area: Always test any cleaning product on a small, hidden area first.
- Gentle Cleaning: Use gentle cleaning methods and avoid harsh chemicals that can strip the color.
Addressing Scuffs and Scratches
- Brush in One Direction: Gently brush the scuffed area in one direction to lift the nap and reduce the appearance of the scuff.
- Suede Eraser: Use a suede eraser to gently rub the scratch and blend it with the surrounding area.
Can you put suede shoes in the washer?
Normally, you should not put suede shoes in the washer.
Suede is a delicate material that can be easily damaged by water and the agitation of a washing machine.
However, if you have our shoe washing bag, you can put your suede shoes in the washing machine.
The shoe bag for the washing machine is made of high-quality, highly breathable chenille + mesh cloth.
There are more than 12,000 chenille microfibers in the shoe washing bag with a length of 3cm, which can perfectly protect your shoes from scuffing during the washing process. suitable for various types of shoes and can brush away the stains on the surface of your shoes in all directions.