Master the art of cleaning suede footwear with our step-by-step guide. From removing scuff marks to protecting your shoes, learn how to keep your suede shoes looking fresh and velvety.
Suede shoes are a style staple for many people, but keeping them clean can be a challenge. Unlike other materials, suede requires special care to maintain its soft texture and prevent damage.
Suede is a type of leather made from the underside of animal hides, typically sheep, goats, or calves.
It is characterized by its soft, velvety texture and subtle sheen.
Suede production involves treating the hide with various chemicals to enhance its appearance and durability.
The process can be time-consuming and labor-intensive, contributing to suede's premium price point.
Suede is often used in high-end fashion items, such as shoes, handbags, and jackets, due to its luxurious feel and aesthetic appeal.
To tackle dirt, stains, and scuffs with ease, you’ll need the following tools:
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A suede brush or a soft-bristle toothbrush
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A suede eraser or suede rubber
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A suede cleaning solution or white vinegar/rubbing alcohol
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Baking soda (for oil and grease stains)
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A clean towel or microfiber cloth
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Suede protector spray (optional)
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Cedar shoe tree (optional)
Having these materials on hand ensures you’re prepared to tackle any cleaning task that comes your way.
Suede is a delicate material that requires regular maintenance to prevent staining and damage.
To clean suede, use a soft-bristled brush to gently remove dirt and debris.
For tougher stains, apply a small amount of suede cleaner or a mixture of equal parts water and white vinegar directly to the stain.
Gently blot with a clean cloth, working from the outside inwards.
Avoid using harsh chemicals or excessive water, which can damage the material.
Before You Start: Gather Your Materials
Start by gently brushing away surface dirt and dust using a suede brush. Always brush in the same direction to avoid damaging the suede fibers. This step helps restore the nap (the soft, raised texture of suede) and prepares the surface for deeper cleaning.
A suede brush is a crucial tool for artists and designers, used to create intricate textures on fabric, paper, and other materials.
Its soft bristles are designed to pick up and manipulate suede-like surfaces without causing damage.
By applying gentle pressure and smooth strokes, the suede brush can achieve unique effects, such as subtle blending or detailed patterns.
With its precision and control, this specialized brush is an essential addition to any creative arsenal.
If you’re cleaning suede sneakers or boots that are muddy, wait until the mud dries completely before brushing it off. Wet suede is more delicate and easier to damage.
Step 1: Brush Off Loose Dirt
Scuff marks can dull your suede footwear, but they’re easy to fix. Take a suede eraser or rubber eraser and gently rub the scuffed areas using small, circular motions. Apply light pressure to avoid tearing the material.
For tougher scuff marks, try combining the eraser with your suede brush to lift stubborn stains effectively.
Step 2: Remove Scuff Marks
Tough stains like oil and grease can be tricky, but baking soda is a secret weapon. Sprinkle a small amount of baking soda directly on the stain and let it sit for a few hours to absorb the oil. Then, gently brush it off with your suede brush.
For other types of stains, like watermarks, dampen a microfiber cloth with a suede cleaning solution or white vinegar. Gently dab the stained area, being careful not to soak the suede. Allow the shoe to air dry completely before brushing to restore the nap.
Step 3: Treat Stains
After cleaning, the suede‘s nap may look flattened. Don’t worry! Use your suede brush to gently brush the entire shoe, always in the same direction.
For stubborn areas, lightly steaming the suede can help loosen the fibers before brushing. Hold the shoe above a pot of boiling water if you don’t have a steam cleaner for clothes or a steaming function on your iron.
This step ensures your suede footwear looks fresh and velvety.
Step 4: Refresh the Nap
To keep your suede shoes looking great longer, apply a suede protector spray. Hold the spray about 6 inches from the shoe and apply an even coat, ensuring full coverage. Let the shoes dry completely before wearing them.
A suede protectant creates a barrier against dirt, moisture, and stains, making future cleanings easier and prolonging the life of your shoes.
Step 5: Protect Your Shoes
When you’re not wearing your suede shoes, store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Using a cedar shoe tree can help maintain their shape and absorb excess moisture, preventing damage.
Proper storage keeps your suede footwear ready to wear and looking fresh. Whether you’re rocking suede sneakers or formal shoes, these steps will ensure they’re always at their best.
- howstuffworks.com | How to Clean Suede Shoes in 6 Easy Steps
