How to clean suede shoes in 5 easy steps at home

In view of shoes They’re the prettiest thing you’ll ever wear, as long as you don’t plan on walking through mud in them, because if you do, they’re sure to be hard to maintain. Keeping suede shoes looking pristine can seem like a challenge, but with the right techniques and tools, it’s quite manageable.

Whether you own a stylish pair of suede booties or textured sneakers or whatever, knowing how to clean these beauties is extremely crucial if you plan on keeping them for a long time.

Here are five easy steps to achieve flawless suede shoes at home:

Brushing

Start by using a suede brush to clean any dried dirt or debris from the surface of the shoe. Gently brush in one direction to prevent particles from embedding themselves further into the suede. For tougher scuff marks, apply more pressure and use a back-and-forth motion. If you don’t have a suede brush, you can use a clean nail brush or toothbrush as a substitute.

Draft

Wipe away any remaining stains with an eraser or chamois leather. Use a back-and-forth motion with the eraser, applying firm pressure to lift the marks. If the stain remains, be careful not to apply excessive force, as this may damage the suede.

Vinegar or rubbing alcohol

If a particular stain persists, try using white vinegar or rubbing alcohol. Dampen a corner of a flannel or cloth with a small amount of vinegar or rubbing alcohol, then gently rub the stain. Avoid soaking the suede; instead, increase the pressure and continue rubbing. Allow the suede to dry between applications and repeat the process if necessary until the stain is gone.

Baking soda

For oil or grease stains, blot away excess substance with a clean cloth. Sprinkle baking soda over the stain, making sure it is completely covered. Allow the baking soda to sit for several hours or overnight to absorb the oil. Then, gently brush away the baking soda with a suede or nail brush. Repeat the process if necessary until the stain is completely removed.

Suede protector

Once the shoes are clean, apply a suede protector to help prevent future stains. Always perform a patch test before applying the protector to ensure it won’t negatively affect the suede.