How to Clean Suede Shoes and Maintain Their Softness

It’s always important to have a basic understanding about the product that you will clean, so firstly let us define what suede is.

It is a sort of leather which looks smooth on one side such as obtained by sanding, or by friction on the inner layer of the skin of a particular animal.

What makes it unique is its grain surface, which consists of small, raised fibers that are sanded to create a soft, fuzzy, and velvety texture, making it pleasant to the touch.

Texture And Appearance

Suede is characterised by its soft fuzzy and matte appearance since it derives from the under part of the skin.

On the other hand, leather shoe is very smooth, shiny and mostly has a grain surface due to it being produced from the outer part of the hide.

Durability

Still, suede wears out easily, gets easily stained, scratched, or ruined by water than leather, which is rougher and lasts longer.

Maintenance

Leather is much more manageable; all that is needed is due to conditioning and washing of the material often. Suede, you should know, requires more attention to detail in order not to ruin it easily.

Uses

Suede is for shoes, jackets, bags, and upholstering for providing a stylish and quality appearance.

Whereas leather is famously utilized in shoes, furniture, belts, jackets, and bags due to its conservation of its aesthetic appeal over time.

Feel

Suede is quite thin and bendy while leather is thicker, stronger, and tougher.

Scroll down, and let’s learn how to clean suede shoes at home.

• Suede brush

• Suede eraser or pencil eraser

• White vinegar or rubbing alcohol

• Protective suede spray

• Paper towels

Can you clean suede shoes? If that bothers you, do not worry – read on for some easy steps.

First, use the suede brush or a soft bristle brush to clean up surface dust in the area of the shoe that will be in contact with the lining.

Never brush it in circular form as this might harm the fiber since it is very sensitive.

Then, insert paper towels or shoe trees inside the shoes to help them maintain their shape during the cleaning process.

One should employ a suede or a pencil eraser to wipe off minor scuff marks or spots on the surface of the shoes.

To reduce the extension of the issue, it is essen-tial to minimize the amount of pressure which is applied to the affected region or part of the body.

For the tougher stains, use a microfiber cloth and wet it in white vinegar or rubbing alcohol but for all the stains, should be treated softly.

If you are up against water stains, moisten a piece of clean cloth with water and then pat on the area.

This will assist in gentle lifting of the stain without fully wetting the suede material through which they were created.

Also, warm the shoes to room temperature, and never use a blow dryer or place them near heat to dry out. After that let it dry and use the suede brush to give back the texture on the shoes.

After using suede cleaner for shoes, apply a protective suede spray to guard against future stains and water damages.

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for best results. Don’t wear it wet, allow the spray to dry thoroughly before styling it.

Since you’ve completed learning how to clean faux suede shoes, it’s time for understanding preventive maintenance.

• Avoid Harsh Conditions

Suede shoes are sensitive to environmental elements such as heavy rain, snow, and muddy surfaces. These conditions can lead to irreversible damage, including staining, warping, and loss of texture.

Always check the weather forecast before wearing suede footwear. If you anticipate wet or muddy conditions, opt for more durable alternatives like leather or waterproof materials to protect your suede shoes from potential harm.

• Handle Spills Immediately

Despite whatever situation occurs it can be tended to before it gets out of hand and becomes irreversible.

In case of a spill avoid scraping the affected part as this will only drive the liquid further into the suede naps.

However, to suction it, first, pat the spilled substance with an absorbent cloth to lift the moisture.

The next thing that should be done is to clean up the shoe using a suede cleaner or make use of a specialized eraser so that the appearance of the shoe is brought back.

• Rotate Shoes

Suede shoes, if worn daily in the same pair, quickly become worn out and consequently change shape.

To increase their durability, only wear one pair at a time, the other can be left aside to be aired, and regain its shape.

This practice prevents formation of sweat and moisture that when produced affects the texture of the suede.

• Inspect Regularly

It also helps you solve minor problems before they develop into big disasters thereby saving lots of money.

Often inspect them for any signs of wear, staining, or light scuff marks and treat the problem immediately.

For stains, wipe the suede with a suede eraser or a brush to loosen the dirt and for some really stubborn stains get the shoes cleaned by a professional suede cleaner.

Besides, it also makes sure that your shoes are well maintained for them to maintain their quality.

• Proper Storage

For best results, it is recommended to keep your suede shoes in a dry basement or a rack, which is away from the reach of direct sunlight or heat.

Too much heat or light can lead to material discoloration, dryness, and crack formation on the material. Use shoe bags, dust covers, or boxes to protect them from dust and accidental spills.

Place shoe trees inside can help maintain their shape and prevent creases.

• Air Circulation

If your shoes are suede, you should allow them to breathe after use especially if they have come into contact with damp conditions, or sweat.

Store them in well aired spaces and away from confined areas such as a closet soon after use.

This practice helps prevent odor buildup and reduces risk of mold, mildew, ensuring your shoes stay fresh for longer.

Invest In Quality Products

Cleaning and waterproofing suede are essential because the quality of your shoes depends on them.

Clean or generic products may contain irritating chemicals that may damage the leather material used in making suede products.

Look for reputable brands that specialize in suede care, including protective sprays, cleaners, and brushes.

While the initial cost may be higher, these products provide better results and extend the life of your shoes.

Test Products First

Before applying any new cleaning solution, protective spray, or dye, always perform a spot test. Spit a little on one of the hidden corners of the shoe, for example, inside edge then allow it to dry.

This ensures the product doesn’t discolor or damage the suede. Testing first helps avoid costly mistakes and keeps your shoes safe during maintenance.

Professional Cleaning

For severe stains, stubborn dirt, or extensive damages, it’s best to consult a professional cleaner who specializes in suede care.

These experts have the tools and knowledge to handle delicate materials effectively.

Expert cleaning is possible for your shoes if home remedies fail or if shoes are of high importance, either sentimental or because they are expensive.

Color Matching

Suede shoes may also get discolored or develop a dull color over time due to the influence of light, use, or wrong treatment.

If this happens, you can restore their appearance with a color-matching suede dye.

It is highly recommended that one uses a dye of the same color as the shoes to avoid fading and that one uses the recommended manufacturer’s instructions.

Ensure the shoes are clean and dry before application, and apply the dye evenly for a consistent finish.

Keep Away From Oils

The other thing that one has to know about suede is that once it comes into contact with oils and greasy products, they stain.

In order to avoid this, one should not wear suede shoes where or when it could be ruined. Avoid walking through areas where they might come into contact with food, drinks, or greasy surfaces.

If oil stains do occur, blot the area immediately and use a specialized suede degreaser or cleaner designed for oil removal.

Can You Wash Suede Shoes?

You should not wash suede shoes in water or a washing machine. Instead, try the hacks of suede brush, and suede cleaner with soft clothes.

Does Bleach Clean Suede?

No, bleach should never be used on suede. Bleach is too harsh and can permanently discolor or damage the material.

Try using a specialized suede cleaner or mild household solutions like white vinegar for stains.

How To Fix A Scratch On Your Suede Shoes?

Here’s a few ways to fix a scratch:

• Brush the area to buff the scratch in one direction.

• Hold the shoe above the steam (e.g. from a kettle) for a few seconds to loosen the fibers, then brush again.

• If the scratches are deeper, consult a cobbler for repair.

How Can You Prevent Shrinkage On Suede Shoes?

Suede shoes should not be dried under the sun or on heaters no matter how desperate you are to dry the shoes.

Avoid wearing suede shoes in wet and rainy weather or even in snowy weather because these shoes tend to shrink due to absorption of much moisture.

Let them dry naturally but under no circumstances in the sunlight, put newspapers inside of them.