How to care for suede shoes

Step 1 | Remove dust and dirt from your suede shoes

Before you clean your suede shoes, it’s important to remove dust and dirt. Luckily, this is very easy: use a soft brush (or a special suede brush) to easily brush off the dirt from your shoes. Make sure to brush in one direction to avoid damaging the suede.

Step 2 | Treat stains on suede shoes

Got stains on your suede shoes? It’s important to act quickly to prevent the stains from becoming permanent. For oil or grease stains, use a home remedy, such as talcum powder or corn starch. Sprinkle a bit on the stain, let it sit for a few hours, and then gently brush it off. For water stains, gently blot the stain with a damp cloth. Then, use a clean (dry!) cloth to dry the shoes.

Step 3 | Use a suede brush and eraser

As mentioned, a suede brush is very handy for cleaning suede shoes. A suede eraser is also a useful tool. Yes, you read that right: an eraser specifically for suede shoes! The brush is used to remove dirt, while the eraser is used for stubborn stains. How do you use the eraser? Gently rub it over the stain until it disappears. You can then use the brush to remove any remaining residue. Stains and streaks disappear in no time!

Reading tip: How to clean sandals’ footbed.

Step 4 | Stubborn stains

Sometimes, stains are so stubborn that they can’t be removed by hand. In that case, consider having your shoes professionally steam-cleaned. A local cobbler can often restore your shoes to looking like new!

Step 5 | Protect your shoes with a spray

Cleaning your shoes is one of those tasks that no one really enjoys. Spray your shoes regularly, and you’ll see that you need to clean them less often. By spraying your suede shoes with a protective spray, you protect them from future stains and damage. You can use a spray that protects and maintains the material of your shoes against moisture and dirt. Spray evenly over the entire shoe and let them dry completely before wearing them. Repeat regularly to keep the invisible protective layer intact. A generous spray means less cleaning!

Reading tip: How to get rid of smelly shoes.