Elegant, versatile and timeless, suede shoes are a sophisticated staple for many. Able to instantly elevate any outfit and ideal for a range of occasions, there’s no denying they’re a wardrobe essential.
However, this material is also famously delicate. Its structure and composition might make it prone to marks, stains and scuffs, leaving it looking a little tired.
So, if you’re wondering how to clean suede shoes, you’re in the right place. We’ve put our go-to tips and tricks together to help you care for these particular styles.
What Is the Best Way to Clean Suede Shoes?
Cleaning suede styles can be a delicate task, but with some gentle TLC, they could be refreshed and restored in no time.
However, it’s important to bear in mind that you may need to combine a few of these techniques to get the results you’re after, and it may take time to find a solution that suits your specific pair.
Use a Soft-Bristled Suede Brush
If your footwear has only accumulated some light dust and dirt, you may want to use a soft-bristled brush to help sweep it away.
Due to their natural fibres and absorbent properties, high-quality horsehair brushes are popular choices.
Crepe options, which feature a coiled strip of rubber, work by gently pulling against the shoe’s fibres and have been found to effectively pick surface dirt.
How to use: Simply brush back and forth with even strokes across your shoes.
Use a Microfibre Cloth
A microfibre cloth is a handy tool when cleaning suede.
It’s gentle enough to brush away light dust and dirt and, if your kicks have gotten wet, could also help to reduce the appearance of residual tide marks (the stains and discolouration from contact with water).
How to use: If you’re working on tide marks, slightly dampen the shoe’s surface again and gently blot dry with the cloth.
Use a Specialised Eraser
To tackle tough stains, a suede eraser could be a convenient tool. They’re typically made of a soft, spongy material and resemble a pencil rubber.
Their gentle texture may help to reduce the appearance of stains, scuffs and water damage without harming the fabric.
How to use: On dry shoes, carefully buff the eraser against the stain until it begins to fade. The larger and darker the mark, the more you may have to rub it.
Use White Vinegar or Rubbing Alcohol
If you’re wondering how to spruce up your suede without a cleaner, there are a few household items you could utilise to tidy up your kicks.
When used carefully, either white vinegar or rubbing alcohol may help to reduce the appearance of stains.
How to use: Apply one teaspoon of white vinegar or rubbing alcohol to a microfibre cloth and gently rub it onto the stain. Allow it to dry fully before using more if required.
How to Protect Suede Shoes
In addition to regular cleaning, there are a few things you can do to help shield your suede from any potential staining or showing signs of wear and tear.
By giving them some regular TLC, your suede footwear might remain in good nick for longer.
Care for Your Suede With a Conditioner
While it doesn’t necessarily help to clean suede shoes, should they look a little tired, you could massage a specialised conditioner into them for an intensive restorative treatment.
They may also prevent the suede from drying out and help its lifetime.
How to use: Apply the conditioner to a microfibre cloth and massage it into your shoes with circular, even motions.
Store Them Safely
Stowing your kicks away safely between wears is essential to keep them looking smart.
While shoe racks are handy for keeping them off the floor, shoe trees might help to retain their shape and structure (though try to ensure they’re kept from any direct heat, sunlight or moisture).
Alternatively, you may just want to pop them back into their original boxes and plump them up with the paper stuffing they came with.
Avoid Rainy Days!
As tempting as it may be to flaunt them every day, suede is very susceptible to water damage. So, if you’re heading out and know that a downpour is due, you may wish to reach for a hardier alternative.
Similarly, if you’re planning a trip to the beach or a waterpark, we suggest packing a different pair.
And with that, you now know to clean and care for your suede shoes. If you want to learn more about looking after other textures and materials, explore our guide to cleaning shoes.
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