Cleaning suede shoes regularly ensures that your favorite footwear lasts for a long time and always looks amazing. We’ve been in business for a couple of decades, so, naturally, we’ve picked up some tips and tricks on how to care for suede shoes properly. As always, if you have any questions, feel free to get in touch for one-on-one guidance! Here’s everything you need to know about suede care.
1. Always Start With Dry Shoes
Puddles happen! If your suede shoes get muddy, your first instinct might be to clean them as quickly as possible. However, because suede is a porous and permeable material, cleaning suede while it's wet can actually do more harm than good. Not only do you risk scrubbing the dirt deeper into the suede, but the moisture itself can cause permanent damage.
It might be tempting to dry your shoes as quickly as possible so you can start scrubbing, but never put your suede shoes in direct sunlight or near any sort of heat source. Heat can dry out the suede, causing it to become brittle, stiff, or even cracked.
2. Use a Hard-Bristled Brush
Most dirt and debris can easily be removed with a brush. A suede brush is the best option, but a hard-bristled toothbrush, nail brush, or even a hairbrush should do the trick. When cleaning suede shoes with a brush, a rapid, side-to-side motion usually works best to loosen dirt, debris, and grime.
3. Erase Mild Surface Stains
A major part of learning how to care for suede properly is simply having the right tools for the job. Many mild stains can be removed with a suede eraser. If you don’t have one, an ordinary pencil eraser is a great substitute! Use a back-and-forth motion to scrub away stains. Be careful not to apply too much pressure or you risk damaging the suede fibers.
4. Use Acidic Liquid to Remove Stubborn Stains
If you weren’t able to erase the stains, you can try cleaning suede shoes with an acidic liquid. An actual suede cleaner is ideal, but rubbing alcohol or white vinegar will work in a pinch. Never apply the liquid directly to the suede. Instead, lightly dampen a clean, dry cloth, and then massage the stain gently using a side-to-side motion.
5. Treat the Shoes With a Conditioner
Once your shoes are clean, take the opportunity to condition them. Conditioning helps to moisturize the suede and provides a protective barrier that can prevent future stains and scratches. Suede-specific conditioners come in wax, cream, and oil forms, and each has its own application procedure, so follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Do not use a leather conditioner on suede shoes though! You should only use conditioners made for suede.
After conditioning, you may want to apply a suede-specific waterproofing spray for extra protection from moisture.
Save on Name-Brand Suede Shoes
Cleaning suede shoes can improve the look and longevity of your footwear, but sometimes simply replacing them makes more sense. After all, even if you know how to care for suede shoes, sometimes damage and stains are irreversible. Fortunately, getting a brand-new pair of suede shoes is easy and affordable when you shop at What’s Hot Clothing!
We carry suede footwear from the industry’s most respected shoe brands, including Clarks, Vionic, Minnetonka, Birkenstock, and more. From cozy suede moccasins and slippers to classy dress boots and Oxfords, we have the perfect pair for you. Shop our wide selection of women’s shoes, men’s shoes, and kids’ shoes, and enjoy incredible end-of-season deals!
