How to Clean Suede Shoes

Cleaning suede shoes requires a careful approach to ensure their longevity and appearance. Begin by letting the shoes dry thoroughly if wet, then use a suede brush or toothbrush to remove dirt. Tackling tougher stains may get tougher, while oil or grease stains need gentle care.

How To Remove Stains From Suede Shoes

Some stains require special approaches when it comes to cleaning suede footwear. You can use these guidelines to effectively remove some of the most common stains from suede shoes and boots.

Things Required to Clean Suede Shoes

You can start cleaning your suede shoes with the following items:

• Suede brush
• Pencil eraser
• White vinegar
• Rubbing alcohol
• Baking soda
• Paper towels
• Cloth towel
• Hairdryer

1. Dirt or Mud

To remove dirt or mud from suede shoes, ensure the material is dry. Then, utilize a suede brush or toothbrush to eliminate as much dirt as possible. If marks remain, use a steamer to gently loosen the dirt, then use a paper towel or cloth to lift it out. Allow the area to dry.

2. Oil or Grease

To address oil or grease stains on suede shoes, apply cornstarch on the affected area and let it absorb the excess grease for a few hours. Delicately brush off the cornstarch with a brush. Repeat as necessary until the stain is eliminated. For dried grease stains, clean the area with a small amount of dish soap. Allow the soap to sit on the stain for approximately 10 minutes, then rinse off the soapy residue by blotting with a damp cloth. Please avoid soaking suede shoes directly in water.

3. Salt

Suede shoes or boots can get stained from snow and ice melt, particularly due to salt. To eliminate salt stains from suede footwear, start by brushing away as much salt as possible. Dip a clean cloth into a mixture of cold water and a small amount of dish soap. Start removing the stain gently; avoid rubbing. Repeat the process as necessary until the stain disappears. Allow the shoes to dry completely.

4. Water Stains

Although it might sound illogical, adding water can help remove water stains on suede shoes. Use a spray bottle to lightly spit water across the surface. Gently brush the surface using a suede brush or toothbrush. Remove any excess water with a clean cloth or paper towel, then let them dry completely under the heat.

How To Clean Suede Shoes Without a Suede Cleaner?

Suede shoes can also be cleaned without a dedicated suede cleaner by using household items and some techniques. Here's a step-by-step guide:

1. Brush Off Dry Dirt

Use a brush or a soft toothbrush to gently brush off dry dirt from the shoes. Brush in the direction of the fibers to avoid damaging the suede.

2. Use a White Eraser or Pencil Eraser

For scratch marks or light stains, take a white eraser or a pencil eraser and rub over the area which is affected. This can help in removing minor stains without causing harm.

3. Cornstarch for Oil or Grease Stains

If there are oil or grease stains, spray a small amount of cornstarch over the stained area. Allow it to sit for a few hours to absorb the grease. Afterward, brush off the extra cornstarch.

4. Steam Cleaning

To remove dirt or stubborn stains, you can use steam. Hold the shoes over steam (from a boiling kettle) at a safe distance, and then brush the suede with a suede brush or toothbrush to lift the dirt.

5. Vinegar and Water Solution

Mix equal parts white vinegar and water. Swab a clean cloth into the solution, get the excess liquid out, and gently clean the stained areas. Be cautious and test a small, area of your shoe first to ensure it doesn't affect the color.

6. Drying

Allow the shoes to air-dry naturally. Cover them with newspaper to help maintain their shape as they dry. Avoid using direct heat sources like radiators or hair dryers.

7. Brush Again

Once the shoes are completely dry, use a suede brush to restore the shine and remove any remaining stiffness.

Remember to be gentle during the cleaning process to avoid damaging the suede. Additionally, always test any cleaning method on a small area of your shoes first to ensure it doesn't cause any harmful effects or damage to the material.

How To Clean Suede Shoes With Baking Soda?

Here’s how you can clean Suede Shoes using Baking Soda:

• Pour baking soda on the greasy stain as much as it is required to cover it completely.
• Let the baking soda absorb the grease for several hours.
• Brush the baking soda and the soaked-up grease out with a suede brush.
• Check the grease stain once the suede gets dried and repeat the process if needed.
• Clean and dry your suede brush and give the suede a rapid brushing to restore the nap.

How To Clean Suede Shoes With Vinegar?

• Mix half water and half white vinegar in a bowl.
• Dip one corner of a clean white towel into the mixture.
• Rub the salt stains until the suede is humid and the salt stains are no longer visible.
• Restore the nap with a suede brush while the suede is wet.
• Wash and dry your suede brush after that give your shoes another last round of brushing.

How To Clean Suede Shoes With Household Products?

Shoes — especially suede shoes — are not subject to all types of weather and landscape. Thankfully, there are some items in households that can easily remove stains on suede. Plain white vinegar or rubbing alcohol can infiltrate the suede and remove dirt, grime, salt, and water stains. Simply follow the instructions as mentioned to safely use household items on your favorite shoes.

FAQS Of How to Clean Suede Shoes

How Do You Clean Suede Shoes at Home?

Start the process by letting the shoes dry completely. Use a suede brush or toothbrush to remove dirt, and for tougher stains, consider using household items like vinegar or rubbing alcohol.

Can You Clean Suede with Soap and Water?

While water can damage suede, a mild soap can be used economically. Apply a small amount of soap to a damp cloth and gently clean the stains. Allow the shoes to air-dry thoroughly.

Is It Okay to Wash Suede Shoes?

Washing suede shoes directly in water is not recommended, as it can damage the material. Instead, use dry cleaning methods or specialized suede cleaning products.

How Do You Get Scuff Marks Off Suede Shoes?

Lightly rub marks with a suede brush or eraser. For stubborn scuffs, use a mixture of water and vinegar on a soft cloth. Ensure the shoes dry completely after cleaning.