Your ultimate guide to reviving your favourite pair, stain by stain…
There’s something undeniably luxurious about suede. That soft, velvety nap. That effortlessly cool texture. Whether it’s a pair of camel-coloured Chelsea boots, navy loafers, or those blush-pink sneakers you just had to have, suede shoes elevate even the simplest outfit. But for all their charm, suede shoes come with one major caveat: they’re notoriously delicate and susceptible to stains, water spots, and grime.
So what’s a style-conscious person to do when their suede starts looking less “fashion week” and more “forgotten in the back of the closet”? Don’t panic. With the right tools and a gentle hand, you can clean suede shoes at home—no trip to the cobbler required.
Here’s your step-by-step guide to keeping your suede in pristine condition (or bringing it back from the brink).
1. Know thy suede
Before diving into the cleaning process, understand what you’re working with. Suede is a type of leather with a napped finish, made from the underside of the animal hide. It’s more porous than smooth leather, which makes it soft—but also more prone to staining and water damage.
Translation? Prevention is key. But if it’s already too late, don’t worry. Keep reading.
2. Assemble your suede-cleaning kit
You don’t need a full arsenal of fancy gadgets, but a few key items will make all the difference:
- Suede brush (usually with rubber or wire bristles)
- Suede eraser or clean white pencil eraser
- White vinegar or rubbing alcohol
- Clean microfiber cloths
- Paper towels or unprinted paper
- Protective suede spray (for aftercare)
Optional but helpful: a suede cleaning solution (sold at most shoe stores) and a toothbrush for tough spots.
3. Dry first, always
Suede and water don’t mix. If your shoes are wet or damp from rain, do not attempt to clean them immediately. Instead:
- Gently blot with a clean cloth or paper towel (no rubbing!)
- Stuff the shoes with paper to help them keep their shape
- Let them air dry naturally—away from heaters or direct sunlight
Once they’re completely dry, proceed with cleaning.
4. Brush off the basics
Using your suede brush, gently brush the surface in one direction to remove surface-level dirt, dust, or scuffs. Think of it as fluffing the nap.
If you’re dealing with a deeper scuff, use a back-and-forth motion or apply a bit more pressure. Always be gentle—you’re not scrubbing a frying pan.
Pro tip: If you don’t have a suede brush, a clean toothbrush or even a nail brush can work in a pinch.
5. Erase the stains
Next, target stubborn marks using a suede eraser. Rub gently over the stained area in a circular motion. This can lift oil stains, marks from denim dye transfer, and light grime.
No eraser? A clean white pencil eraser will do in a pinch—just make sure it’s not pink, colored, or too abrasive.
6. Try a home remedy for stubborn stains
For tougher stains (think: salt marks, wine splashes, or ground-in dirt), dip a clean cloth in white vinegar or rubbing alcohol and dab gently. Yes, it feels counterintuitive to wet suede, but these liquids evaporate quickly and won’t stain.
- Gently dab the stain with the damp cloth
- Blot with a dry part of the cloth to lift excess moisture
- Let the area dry, then re-fluff with your suede brush
Vinegar is especially effective against salt stains, making it a winter shoe-care must-have.
7. Reshape and refresh
After cleaning, reshape your shoes using shoe trees or stuffing them with paper. Once fully dry, brush the nap again to restore the suede’s signature texture.
8. Prevent future damage
This is your final (and most important) step: protect and repeat.
Invest in a suede-protectant spray and apply it regularly—ideally every few wears. It’ll create an invisible shield against moisture and stains. Just make sure to apply it to clean, dry suede and let it dry overnight before wearing.
Bonus: A cedar shoe tree not only helps retain the shape of your suede shoes but also keeps them dry and fresh-smelling.
When to call in the pros
If you’re dealing with a major stain (like motor oil or ink), or if your shoes are very expensive or vintage, take them to a professional suede cleaner. No shame in letting the pros work their magic.
Final word
Suede shoes might have a high-maintenance rep, but with a little care—and the right know-how—you can keep yours looking sharp for seasons to come. Whether you’re navigating rainy sidewalks or brushing off the evidence of last night’s rooftop party, a clean pair of suede shoes always steps things up.
So go ahead, wear them confidently. You’ve got this.
