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How to Clean Suede Combat Boots: A Comprehensive Guide
Maintaining Suede Combat Boots
Suede combat boots are a stylish and durable footwear option, but they require proper care to maintain their appearance and longevity. Here’s a comprehensive guide to cleaning and caring for your suede combat boots:
Daily Cleaning
- Use a soft-bristled brush or a soft cloth to gently remove dust and dirt from the boots daily.
- If necessary, use an old toothbrush to clean small areas around the eyelets and sole tread.
Air-Drying
- After cleaning, allow the boots to air dry away from excessive heat sources, such as direct sunlight, hair dryers, or heating vents.
Removing Mud Stains
- Allow mud stains to dry completely.
- Use a large brush to scrub off excess soil.
- Mix 1/2 teaspoon dishwashing liquid with one cup of warm water and dampen a sponge or soft cloth with the solution.
- Wipe away excess dirt on the nylon or suede.
- Avoid using harsh cleansers that are alcohol or oil-based, as they can damage the leather.
- Wipe the boots down with plain water and allow them to air dry.
Removing Scuff Marks
- Use a suede eraser or suede stone to gently rub back and forth over scuff marks a few times.
- Do not scrub heavily, as this can remove the texture of the suede.
- An art gum eraser can also be used to remove scuffs and rough areas on the suede.
Removing Oil Stains
- Sprinkle baking soda, cornstarch, foot powder, or baby powder over the stained area to absorb the oil.
- Allow the powder to sit for at least 30 minutes.
- Brush away the powder with a soft brush.
- Repeat if traces of oil remain.
Washing Bootlaces
- Hand wash bootlaces in a solution of hot water and dishwashing liquid or laundry detergent for at least 15 minutes.
- Squeeze the soapy water through the laces and rinse in clean water.
- Hang to air dry.
Cleaning the Interior of the Boots
- Remove the insoles from the boots and allow them to air dry.
- If necessary, hand wash the insoles with a gentle soap like saddle soap.
- Wipe down the inside of the boots with a soft cloth and a dishwashing soap/water mixture.
- Follow up with a wipe down with plain water and allow the boots to air dry.
- If athlete’s foot is a concern, spray the inside of the boot with an anti-fungal spray.
Additional Tips
- Invest in a suede care kit that includes a non-metallic bristle brush, boot cleaner, and fabric preserver or conditioner.
- Suede is delicate, so avoid using commercial waterproofing products or shoe polish on these boots.
- Brush the boots daily to prevent dirt from accumulating.
- Clean stains as soon as possible to prevent them from setting.
- Clean the nylon quarter panels with a soft cloth or sponge.
- If the boots become excessively wet, stuff them with newspaper or paper towels to absorb moisture and allow them to air dry.
- Store the boots in a cool, dry place when not in use.
