How to Clean Suede Shoes: A Step-by-Step Guide

Suede shoes are a stylish and fashionable addition to any wardrobe, but they require special care to keep them looking their best. Unlike other types of shoes, suede shoes are delicate and can easily become stained or damaged if not cleaned properly. In this article, we will provide you with some tips on how to clean your suede shoes and keep them looking great.

The first step in cleaning suede shoes is to remove any dirt or debris from the surface. This can be done using a soft-bristled brush or a suede eraser. Gently brush the surface of the shoes in a back-and-forth motion to remove any dirt or debris. It is important to be gentle when cleaning suede shoes, as excessive force can damage the delicate material.

Understanding Suede

Suede is a type of leather made from the underside of animal skin. It has a soft, fuzzy texture that is often used in fashion for shoes, jackets, and other accessories. Suede is a delicate material that requires special care to maintain its appearance and texture.

Suede is more sensitive to water and stains than other materials, which means that it requires a different cleaning process. It is important to use the right tools and techniques to clean suede shoes to prevent damage and prolong their lifespan.

When cleaning suede shoes, it is important to consider the direction of the nap. The nap refers to the direction of the fibers on the surface of the suede. Brushing or rubbing against the nap can damage the fibers and change the appearance of the shoe.

To properly care for suede shoes, it is important to use a suede brush to remove any dirt or debris before cleaning. It is also important to use a suede protector spray to prevent stains and water damage.

By understanding the unique properties of suede and using the right tools and techniques, you can keep your suede shoes looking their best for years to come.

Preparation for Cleaning

Cleaning suede shoes requires proper preparation to avoid damaging the delicate material. Before beginning the cleaning process, gather the necessary supplies, including a suede brush, a white eraser, a clean cloth, and a suede protector spray.

It is important to note that suede shoes should not be cleaned with water or any other liquid. This can cause water stains and damage the material. Instead, use a dry cleaning method to remove dirt and stains.

Start by using a suede brush to gently remove any surface dirt or debris. Brush in one direction to avoid damaging the suede fibers. For tougher stains, use a white eraser to gently rub the affected area. Be careful not to apply too much pressure, as this can cause damage to the suede.

Once the shoes have been brushed and any stains have been removed, use a clean cloth to apply a suede protector spray. This will help to repel water and prevent future stains. Be sure to follow the instructions on the spray bottle and apply in a well-ventilated area.

By properly preparing your suede shoes for cleaning, you can effectively remove dirt and stains without causing damage to the material.

Materials Needed

Cleaning Solution

To clean suede shoes, you will need a cleaning solution that is specifically designed for suede. Avoid using regular cleaning solutions, as they can damage the delicate suede material. You can find suede cleaning solutions at most shoe stores or online. Alternatively, you can make your own cleaning solution by mixing equal parts white vinegar and water.

Soft Cloth

You will need a soft cloth to apply the cleaning solution to your suede shoes. A microfiber cloth is ideal, as it is gentle on the suede and will not leave any lint behind. Avoid using rough or abrasive cloths, as they can damage the suede.

Suede Brush

A suede brush is an essential tool for cleaning suede shoes. It is designed to gently remove dirt and stains from the suede without damaging the material. You can find suede brushes at most shoe stores or online. Alternatively, you can use a soft-bristled toothbrush as a substitute.

That’s it for the materials needed to clean suede shoes. With these three items, you will be well on your way to keeping your suede shoes looking clean and new.

Step by Step Cleaning Process

Removing Dry Dirt

Before beginning the cleaning process, it is important to get rid of any dry dirt or debris that may be on the suede shoes. This can be done using a soft-bristled brush or a suede eraser. Gently brush or rub the surface of the shoes to remove the dirt and ensure that the suede is clean and ready for the next step.

Applying Cleaning Solution

Once the dry dirt has been removed, it is time to apply a cleaning solution. There are a variety of suede cleaners available on the market, but it is important to choose one that is specifically designed for suede. Apply the cleaner to a soft cloth and gently rub it into the suede in a circular motion. Be sure to follow the instructions on the cleaner carefully and avoid using too much solution, as this can damage the suede.

Brushing the Suede

After the cleaning solution has been applied, it is important to brush the suede to restore its texture and remove any excess cleaner. Use a soft-bristled brush to gently brush the suede in the direction of the nap. This will help to lift the fibers and restore the natural texture of the suede. Be sure to brush the suede thoroughly to ensure that all excess cleaner has been removed.

Drying the Shoes

Once the suede has been cleaned and brushed, it is important to allow the shoes to dry completely before wearing them. Avoid exposing the shoes to direct sunlight or heat, as this can cause the suede to fade or become damaged. Instead, allow the shoes to air dry in a cool, dry place. Once they are completely dry, you can use a suede brush to give them a final brush and restore their texture.

By following these simple steps, you can keep your suede shoes looking clean and new for years to come. With a little bit of care and attention, you can ensure that your suede shoes remain a stylish and comfortable addition to your wardrobe.

Post-Cleaning Care

Conditioning the Suede

After cleaning your suede shoes, it’s important to condition them to restore their softness and suppleness. Conditioning suede will also help protect the shoes from future stains and water damage. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Choose a suede conditioner that is specifically designed for suede shoes. Avoid using leather conditioner or any product that contains silicone, as these can damage the suede.

2. Apply a small amount of conditioner to a soft, clean cloth. Rub the cloth in a circular motion over the entire surface of the shoe, paying special attention to any areas that are particularly dry or scuffed.

3. Allow the conditioner to absorb into the suede for several hours or overnight. Then, use a soft brush to gently brush the suede in one direction, to restore its nap.

Proper Storage

Storing your suede shoes properly is crucial to maintaining their quality and preventing damage. Here are some tips for storing your suede shoes:

1. Keep your suede shoes in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight or heat sources. Exposure to heat or sunlight can cause the suede to fade or become discolored.

2. Stuff your shoes with tissue paper or shoe trees to help them maintain their shape while in storage.

3. Store your suede shoes in a breathable shoe bag or box to protect them from dust and moisture. Avoid using plastic bags or containers, as these can trap moisture and cause mold or mildew to grow.

By following these post-cleaning care tips, you can help extend the life of your suede shoes and keep them looking their best.

Preventive Measures

Using a Suede Protector

One of the best ways to prevent your suede shoes from getting dirty or damaged is to use a suede protector. A suede protector is a spray that helps to repel water and other liquids, as well as dirt and stains. You can find suede protectors at most shoe stores, and they are easy to apply. Simply spray the protector evenly onto your shoes, and let it dry completely before wearing them.

Using a suede protector will not only help to keep your shoes looking clean and new, but it will also help to extend their lifespan. However, it’s important to note that a suede protector is not a foolproof solution. While it will help to repel water and dirt, it won’t make your shoes completely waterproof or stain-proof. So, it’s still important to take care when wearing your suede shoes.

Avoiding Water

Water is one of the biggest enemies of suede shoes. When suede gets wet, it can become discolored, stained, or even damaged. To avoid getting your suede shoes wet, try to avoid wearing them on rainy or snowy days. If you do get caught in the rain, try to dry your shoes as quickly as possible. You can stuff them with newspaper or paper towels to help absorb the moisture, and then let them air dry.

It’s also important to avoid getting your suede shoes wet when cleaning them. Instead, use a suede brush or eraser to remove dirt and stains. If you do need to use water, be sure to use it sparingly and only on the affected area. And always let your shoes dry completely before wearing them again.

Avoiding Humidity

Humidity can also be a problem for suede shoes. When suede is exposed to high levels of humidity, it can become discolored or even moldy. To avoid this, try to store your suede shoes in a cool, dry place. Avoid storing them in damp basements or closets, or in areas that are prone to moisture, such as bathrooms or kitchens.

If you do find that your suede shoes have become discolored or moldy due to humidity, you may be able to restore them with a suede cleaner or conditioner. However, prevention is always better than cure, so it’s best to avoid exposing your suede shoes to high levels of humidity in the first place.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cleaning suede shoes can be a delicate process, and there are some common mistakes that people make that can end up damaging the shoes. Here are a few things to avoid when cleaning your suede shoes:

• Using water: Suede is a delicate material that can be easily damaged by water. Avoid using water to clean your suede shoes, as it can cause the material to become discolored, stained, or even shrink.

• Using harsh chemicals: Harsh chemicals can also damage suede shoes. Avoid using bleach, ammonia, or any other harsh chemicals when cleaning your suede shoes, as they can cause discoloration, stains, and even damage to the material.

• Rubbing too hard: When cleaning suede shoes, it’s important to be gentle. Rubbing too hard can cause the material to become damaged or worn down, which can ruin the texture and appearance of the shoes.

• Not using a suede brush: A suede brush is an essential tool for cleaning suede shoes. If you don’t use a suede brush, you risk damaging the material and ruining the texture of the shoes.

• Not using a suede protector: Suede is a delicate material that can easily become stained or damaged. Using a suede protector can help to prevent stains and damage, and keep your suede shoes looking their best.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can keep your suede shoes looking their best for years to come.