New suede shoes look amazing—until dirt and stains show up! Since suede absorbs spills and scuffs easily, keeping them clean takes special care. But don’t stress—with the right steps, you can clean suede shoes and bring back their fresh look.
Due to its delicate nature, suede is highly susceptible to water damage, stains, and visible scuffs. Unlike smooth leather, this material has a soft, textured surface that absorbs liquids easily and can lose its shape or develop permanent marks if not cared for properly. This is why cleaning suede shoes requires specialized methods—using the wrong techniques (like harsh chemicals or excessive water) can ruin the shoes texture and color. Instead, gentle brushing, targeted stain removers, and protective sprays are essential to maintain their appearance and longevity.
Before we clean suede shoes, let’s make sure we have the right tools for the job! Suede is delicate, so using the wrong supplies could damage the material. Here’s your complete checklist of what you’ll need to clean suede shoes properly
Did your suede shoes get caught in the rain or pick up an unexpected stain? Hold on—don’t start cleaning yet! If your shoes are still wet, putting any cleaner or brush to them will only grind the dirt deeper into the material. Instead, gently blot away excess moisture with a dry cloth (never rub!), then let them air dry at room temperature—no sunlight, heaters, or hair dryers, as heat can warp the delicate suede. Rushing the process will backfire, so wait until they’re completely dry before tackling any stains.
If your shoes have laces, take them out before cleaning. This makes it easier to clean every part of the shoe and keeps the laces from getting in the way.If your shoes have laces, take them out before cleaning. This makes it easier to clean every part of the shoe and keeps the laces from getting in the way.
Grab your suede brush or tooth brush and brush away any dirt or debris on the surface of the shoe. Because the fibers are so close together, you can often brush dirt away easily with a soft bristle brush.
Take your suede eraser and gently rub the scuffed area using light back-and-forth motions. This lifts stains while reviving the shoe’s soft texture. After erasing, use a suede brush to whisk away any remaining residue. Repeat these steps until your suede shoes look fresh and clean again.
For tough, deep stains, try this: lightly dampen your brush with white vinegar or rubbing alcohol, then gently work it over the stained areas of the shoe. Be careful not to oversaturate the material. Once you’ve treated the stain, use your suede eraser to lift any remaining marks. Finish by brushing the area again to restore the texture. Repeat the process as needed until the stain is gone and you’re happy with the results!
Once your suede shoes are clean, it’s a good idea to finish the job by applying a suede protection spray. This not only helps shield your shoes from future stains and water damage but also restores the plush, soft texture of the material if it has dried out.
Sprinkle cornstarch or baby powder onto the stain, letting it absorb for 1-2 hours. Once the powder looks greasy, gently brush it away with a suede brush to lift the oil residue. Repeat this process until the stain is completly removed form the shoe.
Lightly dampen a cotton ball with hydrogen peroxide (3% solution) and gently blot the stain—avoid rubbing. Let the shoe air dry completely, then repeat if any discoloration remains.
Place your shoes in the freezer for 1-2 hours until the substance hardens. Once frozen, carefully peel off as much as possible, then use a dull knife or plastic scraper to gently remove any remaining bits without damaging the suede.
Never use water on suede shoes—it can ruin them. Water soaks in fast, causing stains, hard spots, and rough texture. Instead, use a suede brush to wipe away dirt. For tough marks, try a suede eraser or special shoe cleaner.
Brush your suede shoes often to keep them looking great! It helps lift the soft fibers, so your shoes stay smooth and colorful. Regular brushing stops them from getting flat or dull. Just a quick brush keeps your suede shoes fresh and stylish!
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