How to Clean Suede Shoes: The Right Way to Keep Them Looking New

How to Clean Suede Shoes: The Right Way to Keep Them Looking New

Suede shoes look stylish and luxurious, but they can be tricky to maintain. Unlike leather or canvas, suede is delicate and more prone to staining, scuffing, and water damage. The good news is that with a few simple tools and the right technique, you can clean your suede shoes safely at home.

This step-by-step guide shows you exactly how to clean suede shoes and keep them in great shape without ruining the material.

What You’ll Need

Before you start, gather the following items:

• A suede brush (or a soft-bristled toothbrush)
• A suede eraser (or a white pencil eraser)
• White vinegar or rubbing alcohol
• A clean, dry cloth
• Paper towels or shoe trees (to help maintain shape)

Note: Never use water directly on suede—it can cause staining or stiffen the material.

Step 1: Let the Suede Dry Completely

If your shoes are wet or recently worn, let them dry naturally at room temperature. Do not use a hair dryer or place them near heat sources, as this can damage the suede fibers.

Stuff the shoes with paper towels or use shoe trees to help them keep their shape while drying.

Step 2: Gently Brush Away Dirt

Use a suede brush to remove surface-level dirt or dust. Brush in one direction using gentle, short strokes to lift away dirt without damaging the fibers.

If the dirt is stubborn, switch to a back-and-forth motion with light pressure. Avoid scrubbing too hard—suede is delicate.

Step 3: Use a Suede Eraser for Stains

Scuff marks or light stains can often be removed with a suede eraser or even a clean pencil eraser. Rub the stain gently in a circular motion until it fades.

Brush the area again afterward to lift the nap (the soft texture) back up.

Step 4: Treat Deep Stains with Vinegar or Alcohol

For tougher stains, like salt or liquid spills, use white vinegar or rubbing alcohol:

1. Dampen a clean cloth with a small amount of vinegar or alcohol.
2. Gently blot the stained area—do not soak it.
3. Let it dry completely.
4. Once dry, brush the area to restore the texture.

These liquids won’t stain suede like water might, and they evaporate quickly.

Step 5: Fluff and Finish

After cleaning, use the brush to go over the entire shoe and even out the texture. This helps restore the soft, velvety feel that suede is known for.

If the nap is matted, you can lightly steam the area from a distance or use your brush to lift the fibers again.

Bonus Tip: How to Protect Suede Shoes

Once your suede shoes are clean, apply a suede protector spray. This creates a protective barrier against moisture, dirt, and stains.