How to Clean Suede Shoes Easily & Quickly
You might be wondering what it is that makes suede so special and we’re determined to answer that question. Today, we’re honing in on how to clean suede shoes. We’ll cover:
- Ways to clean suede shoes
- Eradicating various suede shoe stains
- The right suede shoe cleaning supplies
- And tips and tricks to keep your blue suedes (or any color, really) in tip-top shape!
So take off those dancing shoes (just for now) to grant them a better tomorrow.
Why Caring for Suede Matters
Suede is a finicky but favorite fabric that needs some extra TLC. As a general rule, know that every shoe has its own personality, which can vary the cleaning process. Still, we’ve got some ways to help you maximize your suede shoes’ lifespan.
Suede shoes most easily magnetize dirt particles due to their thin material. For the same reason, they’re also the least resilient when it comes to water damage; we’re here to intervene before you reach that point.
Unlike running shoes, suede shouldn’t be washed, so learning how to clean them is imperative for optimal shoe care. Note that your suede’s color—light or dark—won’t impact the cleaning process.
So, suede-shoe lovers—whether for your favorite boots, pumps, or slippers—here’s how to clean suede shoes to keep them weather-proofed (and keep you confident).
How to Clean Suede Shoes
The name of the game is mitigating the inevitable: wear, tear, and weather. Let’s start with learning how to clean suede shoes without suede cleaner.
Then, we’ll cover exactly how to clean suede shoes—you guessed it—with suede cleaner, too.
1. Remove Debris
Prep your cleaning process with a horsehair brush. Gently brush dried dirt and debris away to create a smooth cleaning surface.
Horsehair brushes are helpful for various types of shoes, not just suede, so consider it a wise investment. If you don’t have one, replace it with a microfiber cloth, emery board, or an unused toothbrush instead.
2. Grab an Eraser
Take inventory of your problem areas, then, use an eraser to remove them!
Use a consistent but slow circular motion to start, then work to move the stain outward (like a paint stroke). If you don’t have a pencil laying around, try a Magic Eraser instead.
3. Apply White Vinegar
For more complicated stains, use white vinegar to dab onto the problem areas. Don’t panic—this will temporarily discolor the shoe until the spot dries.
If you’re not comfortable pouring the vinegar directly onto the shoe, pour some onto a cloth first, then apply.
4. Let It Dry and Brush
While you let your shoes dry, avoid the temptation to put them in direct sunlight, in the dryer, or under a blowdryer. Let nature do its thing.
After the shoes are dry, brush over the problem areas again to ensure smoothness. Of course, use a clean brush, not the same one from step one.
Use Suede Protectant to Restore
As a protective and rejuvenating measure, use a suede spray to keep the material in mint condition. Keep in mind that different brands may recommend specific suede sprays, but any will do in a pinch.
How to Remove Suede Shoe Stains
Not being able to identify your suede stain can be frustrating, but it doesn’t prevent you from a win. Let’s break down how to clean suede shoes based on stain type. Simply take your best guess and work from there.
Water
Ah, suede’s public enemy number one: water. Separate and apart from avoiding wet environments, we know that life’s for living. If you’ve gotten some water on your suedes, don’t fret!
Gently brush it with a horsehair brush, toothbrush, or microfiber cloth. Blot excess water with a towel, as nothing should be sopping wet, just lightly damp.
Let dry and voila! Consider a waterproofing spray to prevent water spots going forward.
Dirt
Similar to the above guidance, remove debris with a cloth or brush to start. However, if you have a case of wet mud on your hands, let those dry first before taking action.
Then, use a brush to remove the debris, erase to your heart’s content, blot or spritz with a bit of white vinegar, let dry, and rejuvenate!
Salt
Got salt? Similar to dirt or mud, gently brush away all debris first. Blot the stain with a mixture of cold water and dish soap (don’t rub to avoid spreading). Let it dry.
Any time suede experiences an incident, consider a suede protector spray to prevent future damage.
Oil
If cooking stains are the source of your shoe problems, one word: cornstarch.
Simply dust or sprinkle cornstarch on the problem areas and let it absorb. Then, gently remove it with a brush. Repeat as needed.
If the oil stain is already dry, lightly blot with a water and dish soap solution. Let it sit for 10 minutes or more, then blot excess moisture. Let dry and watch the magic unfold.
Gum
Aw, bummer! Gum is the easiest cause for panic, but it’s absolutely reparable. The most important thing to know is that the gum should be iced or frozen for easy removal. We repeat: don’t take a butter knife to it (as much as you may want to) until the gum is iced.
Take a bag of ice cubes in a plastic bag and hold it over the gum until it cools and hardens. This may take 15 minutes or so.
Of course, you don’t want the bag to drip too much on the suede, or you’ll have to see the above guidance for water stains. You can cover the surface area around the gum with a towel or paper towel so that the gum remains the target.
From here, use a suede stain remover for easy spot cleaning and then let it dry. Phew!
Which Suede Shoe Cleaners Should I Use?
As you can see, learning how to clean suede shoes at home is easy given that most materials you’ll need are multipurpose items. For a quick recap, here’s what to keep nearby:
- Soft bristle brush (horsebrush, toothbrush, microfiber cloth, or emery board)
- White vinegar
- Dish soap
- Cornstarch
- Paper towels
Beyond that, having suede cleaners or protector sprays can expedite the cleaning process. Plus, they build confidence knowing you’ve got everything you need in one product. Here are two main suede cleaner options to consider.
1. Mink Oil
While mink oil isn’t specific to suede shoes, it’s a well-rounded product to keep handy. Often found in cosmetic products, this type of conditioner helps keep suede resilient.
Generally, oils deter water damage and enhance vibrancy. Especially if you’ve got colored suede, mink oil may just become your new best friend.
2. Suede Protectant Spray
Suede protector sprays are a great way to treat your shoes after they’ve undergone a cleaning. They’ll essentially help integrate the treatment you’ve given them and prevent further damage at once. Win-win!
Plus, they come in a spray bottle so you don’t have to stress about making your own solutions at home. Sprays rely on oil and wax bases, so you wouldn’t need this and a mink oil. Ultimately, they help combat dryness to keep the material intact.
Similar to using leather conditioner for leather shoes, suede sprays treat the material exactly as it should be treated: super suave.
Beyond these official products, the aforementioned supplies will get you through most any suede crisis.
What’s Next for Suede and Me?
Great question! Whether you’re a devout suede wearer or want to jump into your first pair, suedes are versatile, stylish, and simply slick.
Peruse Zappos for the finest suedes around, no matter your brand preference—Uggs, Birkenstock, or Vagabond. Soon before long, you’ll know your suedes like never before with a new pep in your step. Enjoy!