Suede shoes are undeniably stylish, adding a touch of elegance and sophistication to any outfit. However, their luxurious, napped texture also makes them notoriously difficult to clean. A spilled drink, a rainy day, or even just everyday dust can leave them looking less than pristine. But don’t despair! With the right tools and techniques, you can restore your beloved suede footwear to its former glory right in the comfort of your home.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from gathering your supplies to tackling stubborn stains, ensuring your suede shoes stay looking sharp for years to come.
Why Suede is Tricky (and Worth the Effort!)
Suede is a type of leather made from the underside of animal hide, giving it a soft, velvety finish. Unlike smooth leather, its porous nature and delicate fibers easily absorb liquids and trap dirt, making it prone to staining. The key to successful cleaning is to be gentle, patient, and to use specialized tools that won’t damage the nap.
Essential Tools for Your Suede Cleaning Arsenal
Before you begin, gather these crucial items. Having them on hand will make the process much smoother:
- Suede Brush: This is your primary tool. Look for one with soft rubber bristles on one side and stiffer wire or nylon bristles on the other. The rubber side is for gentle cleaning and lifting the nap, while the stiffer side helps with dried-on dirt.
- Suede Eraser (or Pencil Eraser): Similar to a large pencil eraser, this is designed to lift dry dirt and scuffs without damaging the suede. A clean, white pencil eraser can work in a pinch.
- White Vinegar or Rubbing Alcohol: For water stains and some tougher marks.
- Clean Microfiber Cloths: For blotting and applying solutions.
- Small Bowl: For mixing cleaning solutions.
- Protective Spray (Optional but Recommended): A silicone-free suede protector spray helps repel water and stains in the future.
- Shoe Trees or Paper Towels: To maintain the shoe’s shape while drying.
- Nail File or Fine-Grit Sandpaper (for very stubborn marks, use with extreme caution): Only for the most ingrained scuffs.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Suede Shoes
Always test any cleaning solution on an inconspicuous area first (like the inside of the tongue or a small spot on the heel) to ensure it doesn’t discolor or damage the suede.
Step 1: Prepare Your Shoes
- Remove Laces: Take out any laces to ensure thorough cleaning and prevent them from getting in the way.
- Insert Shoe Trees or Stuff with Paper: Place shoe trees inside your shoes or stuff them firmly with paper towels or newspaper. This helps maintain their shape and provides a firm surface to work on.
Step 2: Tackle Dry Dirt and Scuffs
This is your first line of defense for everyday grime.
- Brush Gently: Using the soft rubber side of your suede brush, gently brush the entire surface of the shoe in one direction. This removes loose dirt and dust. For more stubborn, dried-on mud, use the stiffer bristles, brushing in the direction of the nap.
- Erase Scuffs: For scuff marks, dried dirt, or light stains, use your suede eraser. Rub it back and forth over the mark with light to moderate pressure, just as you would erase a pencil mark. The eraser will lift the dirt.
- Brush Again: After erasing, brush the area again to lift the nap and remove any eraser residue.
Step 3: Address Water Stains
Water stains are common and can leave a dark, uneven mark on suede.
- Dampen the Entire Shoe: Dip a clean microfiber cloth into a small bowl of clean water (or a 50/50 mixture of water and white vinegar for tougher stains). Wring it out thoroughly so it’s just damp, not soaking wet.
- Evenly Dampen: Gently dab and wipe the entire water-stained area, and even the entire shoe if necessary, to evenly dampen the suede. The goal is to “reset” the water marks by dampening the whole surface. Avoid rubbing too hard.
- Blot Dry: Immediately blot the excess moisture with a dry, clean microfiber cloth.
- Air Dry: Allow the shoes to air dry completely in a cool, well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight or heat sources. Do not use a hairdryer, as this can damage the suede.
- Brush After Drying: Once completely dry, brush the suede again with your suede brush to restore the nap.
Step 4: Conquer Oil and Grease Stains
These are the trickiest, but not impossible!
- Act Fast: The sooner you treat an oil or grease stain, the better your chances of removal.
- Absorb Excess: Gently blot any fresh oil with a clean paper towel to absorb as much as possible. Do not rub.
- Apply Absorbent Powder: Sprinkle a generous amount of an absorbent powder like cornstarch, talcum powder, or baking soda directly onto the stain. Let it sit for several hours, or even overnight, to draw out the oil.
- Brush Off Powder: Once the powder has absorbed the oil, gently brush it away with your suede brush.
- Rubbing Alcohol (if needed): If a faint stain remains, dampen a clean microfiber cloth with a small amount of rubbing alcohol. Gently dab the stained area, working from the outside of the stain inwards. Blot dry with a clean cloth.
- Air Dry & Brush: Allow to air dry completely, then brush the nap to restore its texture.
Step 5: Revive the Nap
After any cleaning, the suede’s nap might appear flattened or stiff.
- Gentle Brushing: Use the soft rubber side of your suede brush to gently brush the entire shoe in short, quick strokes, moving in different directions to lift and fluff the fibers.
Maintenance and Prevention Tips
- Protect Your Investment: After cleaning and drying, apply a high-quality, silicone-free suede protector spray. This creates a barrier that repels water and stains, making future cleaning much easier. Reapply every few months or as needed.
- Regular Brushing: Give your suede shoes a quick brush after each wear to remove dust and maintain the nap.
- Store Properly: Store suede shoes in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Use shoe trees to help them retain their shape.
- Avoid Wet Weather: If possible, avoid wearing suede shoes in rain or snow.
- Spot Clean Immediately: If you get a fresh stain, try to address it as soon as possible.
Final Thoughts
Cleaning suede shoes at home requires a bit of patience and the right approach, but it’s a rewarding process that can significantly extend the life and beauty of your footwear. By following these steps and incorporating regular maintenance, you can keep your suede shoes looking sharp and ready to make a stylish statement, no matter what the day brings!
