How to Clean Suede Shoes and Keep Them Pristine
Suede shoes are a stylish and versatile footwear choice, but they require special care to maintain their luxurious appearance. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to clean suede shoes and keep them looking their best:
Essential Tools and Materials
Before you begin cleaning your suede shoes, gather the following tools and materials:
- Suede brush or soft-bristled brush
- Microfiber cloth
- Distilled white vinegar
- Rubbing alcohol (optional)
- Cornstarch
- Hydrogen peroxide (optional)
- Emery board (optional)
- Blunt knife or old credit card
- Suede protector spray
Regular Cleaning
To prevent dirt and stains from setting in, it’s crucial to clean your suede shoes regularly. After each wear, use a soft-bristled brush to gently whisk away loose dirt and debris. Brush in the direction of the nap to avoid damaging the suede fibers.
Removing Scuffs and Minor Stains
Scuffs:
Small scuffs can be removed using an art gum eraser or pencil eraser. Gently rub the eraser back and forth over the mark until it disappears.
Minor Stains:
To remove minor stains, dampen a microfiber cloth with distilled white vinegar. Apply gentle pressure to the stain and wipe in a circular motion. Allow the vinegar to dry completely. If the stain persists, repeat the process.
Removing Set-In Stains
Oily Stains:
Sprinkle a thick layer of cornstarch or baby powder over the oily stain. Allow it to absorb the oil for at least four hours. Brush away the powder and repeat until the stain is gone.
Mud Stains:
Use a blunt knife or the edge of a credit card to carefully lift away as much mud as possible. Avoid rubbing the stain, as this could push it deeper into the suede. Allow the stain to dry, then brush away the dried dirt and perform an overall cleaning.
Blood Stains:
Dampen a cotton ball with hydrogen peroxide and gently dab the blood stain. Allow the suede to dry and repeat the steps if necessary.
Sticky Adhesive, Gum, or Wax Stains:
Place the shoe in a plastic bag and freeze it for at least one hour. Use a blunt knife or the edge of a credit card to lift away the residue. If any residue remains, refreeze the shoe and gently pick away the sticky substance with your fingernail or the edge of a credit card.
Other Cleaning Methods
Rubbing Alcohol:
If you don’t have distilled white vinegar on hand, you can use rubbing alcohol to clean suede shoes. Follow the same steps as recommended for using vinegar.
Plain Water:
If your suede shoes have wet areas and you don’t have vinegar or alcohol, dampen a microfiber cloth with plain water. Wring the cloth so it is not dripping and evenly wet the entire shoe. The suede will dry without watermarks. Brush well to lift the nap.
Additional Tips for Maintaining Suede Shoes
- Apply a commercial suede protector spray to your shoes to enhance their stain and water resistance.
- Avoid wearing suede shoes in wet weather.
- Brush away soil after every wearing to prevent it from setting in.
- To restore the nap of suede shoes, use a soft-bristled brush to brush the shoes in the direction of the nap.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I clean suede shoes at home?
You can clean suede shoes at home using simple tools and products you probably have on hand. The most important tool is a soft-bristled brush that should be used frequently to remove loose soil from the suede.
How do I clean suede shoes without ruining them?
Suede shoes require a gentle touch, so avoid scrubbing while cleaning. Follow the nap of the suede and work slowly. To prevent water marks, evenly clean the entire shoe.
Does vinegar restore suede shoes?
Distilled white vinegar is a good overall cleaner for suede shoes to remove dirt, scuffs, and most stains.