A Step-by-Step Guide to a New-Looking Pair!

Ah, suede shoes! They are the epitome of fashion and sophistication, perfect for turning heads and making a statement. But, let’s be honest – they can be a bit of a nightmare when it comes to knowing how to clean suede shoes.

You may have heard that learning how to clean suede shoes is an impossible task, but guess what? It’s not! So, buckle up and prepare to be amazed as we uncover the easy and fun ways to make your suede shoes look brand new.

We’ll explore the dos and don’ts, tips and tricks, and a step-by-step guide on how to clean suede shoes. Ready? Let’s dive right in!

Know Thy Suede

Before we delve into how to clean suede shoes, it’s important to understand what suede is.

Suede is a type of leather with a napped finish, and it is made from the underside of the animal’s skin, which gives it its characteristic soft and velvety texture.

The delicate nature of suede requires specific care, so before you grab your cleaning supplies, let’s talk about the golden rules for maintaining suede shoes.

The Golden Rules for Suede Shoe Care

Follow these three golden rules to keep your suede shoes looking fresh and fabulous

Stay Away from Water: This is the cardinal rule when it comes to how to clean suede shoes. Water is suede’s mortal enemy, and even a few drops can leave a lasting mark. Always be cautious around water, and invest in a suede protector spray for added defense.

Brush Regularly: A suede brush is your best friend. Regularly brush your suede shoes to remove dirt and dust, and to maintain the nap, or texture, of the suede.

Rotate Your Shoes: Give your suede shoes a break! Avoid wearing them every day to prevent wear and tear, and to allow the shoes to maintain their shape.

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How to Clean Suede Shoes: Step-by-Step Guide

Don’t worry – we won’t let you wade through this mess alone. Here is a detailed, step-by-step guide on how to clean suede shoes, making the process a breeze!

Step 1: Gather Your Supplies

To make the cleaning process as simple as possible, gather the following supplies:

Suede brush or soft-bristled toothbrush
Suede eraser or pencil eraser
White vinegar or rubbing alcohol
Clean, dry cloth or sponge
Small bowl
Cornstarch or talcum powder (for grease stains)

With these tools at hand, you’re ready to learn how to clean suede shoes!

Step 2: Dry Brushing

The first step in how to clean suede shoes is to gently brush the entire shoe with a suede brush or soft-bristled toothbrush.

This removes any loose dirt, dust, and debris, and also helps to restore the suede’s nap. Make sure to brush in the direction of the nap, not against it, to avoid damaging the suede.

Step 3: Erase Stains

Next up in our journey on how to clean suede shoes is dealing with those pesky stains. Using a suede eraser or a regular pencil eraser, gently rub the stained area until the stain starts to lift.

Remember to be patient, as some stains may require a bit more elbow grease. Always rub in the direction of the nap for the best results.

Step 4: Tackle Grease Stains

Grease stains can be particularly challenging, but don’t worry – we’ve got you covered!

If you’re dealing with a grease stain, sprinkle a generous amount of cornstarch or talcum powder over the affected area. Allow the powder to sit on the stain for a few hours or, ideally, overnight.

This will help to absorb the grease and lift it from the suede. Once the time has passed, gently brush away the powder with your suede brush.

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Step 5: Treat Persistent Stains

For more stubborn stains, it’s time to bring out the big guns: white vinegar or rubbing alcohol.

In a small bowl, pour a small amount of either white vinegar or rubbing alcohol. Dip a clean, dry cloth or sponge into the liquid, ensuring it is only slightly damp, not soaked.

Gently dab the stained area with the damp cloth, being careful not to rub or scrub the suede. As the stain begins to lift, continue dabbing until the stain is gone.

Remember, less is more, so don’t overdo it with the liquid.

Step 6: Allow Your Shoes to Dry

After all the stains have been treated, it’s time to let your suede shoes dry. This is a crucial step in learning how to clean suede shoes, as you want to ensure that your shoes dry properly to avoid any watermarks or damage.

Place your shoes in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight or heat sources, and allow them to air dry completely.

Step 7: Give Your Shoes a Final Brush

Once your suede shoes are completely dry, give them one last brush with the suede brush or soft-bristled toothbrush to restore the nap and remove any lingering dirt or debris.

This final step in how to clean suede shoes will leave your shoes looking fresh and revitalized.

How to Clean Suede Shoes Bonus Tips

Now that you know the step-by-step process of how to clean suede shoes, here are some bonus tips to keep your suede shoes looking fabulous:

Invest in a Suede Protector Spray: A suede protector spray adds a layer of defense against water, stains, and dirt. Use it regularly to keep your shoes looking pristine.

Use a Suede Brush with Brass Bristles: A suede brush with brass bristles can be particularly effective in removing stubborn stains and restoring the nap of your suede shoes.

Store Your Shoes Properly: Keep your suede shoes in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Use shoe trees or crumpled newspaper to help maintain their shape.

Tackle Stains ASAP: The sooner you address a stain, the better your chances of removing it. Always act quickly when it comes to how to clean suede shoes.

So there you have it – a comprehensive guide on how to clean suede shoes the easy way!

Armed with these tips and tricks, you can keep your suede shoes looking fabulous for years to come. Remember, the key to maintaining beautiful suede shoes is regular care and prompt attention to stains.

Now that you know how to clean suede shoes like a pro, go ahead and strut your stuff with confidence, knowing that your suede shoes are ready to turn heads and make a statement!

FAQs

How to Clean Suede Shoes with Vinegar

Cleaning suede shoes with vinegar is an effective and budget-friendly method. To clean your suede shoes with vinegar, follow these steps:

Dilute white vinegar with an equal amount of water in a small bowl.
Dip a clean, dry cloth or sponge into the vinegar solution, making sure it’s damp but not soaked.
Gently dab the stained areas on your suede shoes, being careful not to rub or scrub.
Allow the shoes to air dry completely, away from direct sunlight or heat sources.
Once dry, brush the shoes with a suede brush to restore the nap.

How to Clean Suede Shoes with Alcohol

Rubbing alcohol can also be used to clean suede shoes. To clean your suede shoes with alcohol:

Pour a small amount of rubbing alcohol into a small bowl.
Dip a clean, dry cloth or sponge into the alcohol, ensuring it’s damp but not soaked.
Gently dab the stained areas on your suede shoes, being careful not to rub or scrub.
Allow the shoes to air dry completely, away from direct sunlight or heat sources.
Once dry, brush the shoes with a suede brush to restore the nap.

What Cleans Suede Shoes the Best?

A combination of a suede brush, suede eraser, and suede cleaner specifically designed for suede shoes is the most effective method for cleaning suede shoes.

These products are gentle on the suede and help remove dirt, stains, and debris without damaging the delicate material.

Can Suede Be Cleaned Easily?

Suede can be cleaned easily if you follow proper cleaning techniques and use appropriate cleaning supplies specifically designed for suede.

With regular care and prompt attention to stains, you can keep your suede shoes looking fresh and new.

Can You Clean Suede Shoes with Dawn Dish Soap?

Dawn dish soap is not recommended for cleaning suede shoes, as it can damage the delicate material and leave behind residue that can be difficult to remove.

Stick to products specifically designed for suede cleaning to ensure the best results.

How Do You Clean 100% Suede?

To clean 100% suede shoes, follow these steps:

Brush the shoes with a suede brush to remove loose dirt and debris.
Use a suede eraser to remove stains by gently rubbing the eraser over the stained areas.
For persistent stains, use a suede cleaner or a diluted vinegar solution.
Allow the shoes to air dry completely, away from direct sunlight or heat sources.
Brush the shoes again with a suede brush to restore the nap.

How Do Professionals Clean Suede?

Professionals use specialized suede cleaning products and equipment, such as suede brushes, erasers, and suede cleaning solutions.

They also follow proper cleaning techniques to ensure that the suede is not damaged during the cleaning process.

What Should You Not Use on Suede?

Avoid using the following on suede:

Water, as it can cause stains and damage the material.
Harsh chemicals, such as bleach or ammonia.
Regular soap or detergent, as they can leave residue and damage the suede.
Abrasive materials, like steel wool or scouring pads.

How Do You Clean Suede Shoes Without a Suede Brush?

If you don’t have a suede brush, you can use a soft-bristled toothbrush or a clean, dry cloth to gently clean your suede shoes. Be sure to brush in the direction of the nap and avoid scrubbing or rubbing the suede.

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Can I Clean Suede with a Wet Wipe?

Wet wipes are not recommended for cleaning suede shoes, as they can leave behind residue and moisture that can damage the material.

Stick to products specifically designed for suede cleaning to ensure the best results.

Does Dawn Stain Suede?

Dawn Dish soap can potentially stain or damage suede due to its strong cleaning agents and the fact that it’s not specifically designed for suede care.

It’s best to avoid using Dawn or other dish soaps on suede shoes and opt for suede-specific cleaning products instead.

How Do You Clean Suede with Windex?

Windex is not recommended for cleaning suede shoes, as it contains chemicals that can damage the delicate suede material. Stick to suede-specific cleaning products and methods for the best results.

Do Dry Cleaners Clean Suede Shoes?

Some dry cleaners offer specialized suede cleaning services. It’s important to choose a dry cleaner with experience in cleaning suede shoes to ensure the best results.

Check with your local dry cleaner to see if they offer this service.

How Much Does It Cost to Clean Suede Shoes?

The cost to clean suede shoes can vary depending on the method and the service provider. Cleaning suede shoes at home using suede-specific cleaning products can be a cost-effective option.

Professional cleaning services at a dry cleaner or shoe repair shop can range from $20 to $50 or more, depending on the extent of cleaning needed and the provider.

Can Clorox Wipes Clean Suede?

Clorox wipes are not suitable for cleaning suede shoes, as they contain chemicals that can damage the suede material. Instead, use products specifically designed for suede cleaning and follow the appropriate cleaning techniques.

Can Magic Eraser Clean Suede?

Magic Erasers are not recommended for cleaning suede shoes, as they are abrasive and can damage the delicate suede material.

Stick to using a suede brush, suede eraser, and suede-specific cleaning products for the best results.

How to Clean Suede Shoes at Home

To clean suede shoes at home, follow these steps:

Brush the shoes with a suede brush to remove loose dirt and debris.
Use a suede eraser to remove stains by gently rubbing the eraser over the stained areas.
For persistent stains, use a suede cleaner or a diluted vinegar solution.
Allow the shoes to air dry completely, away from direct sunlight or heat sources.
Brush the shoes again with a suede brush to restore the nap.

How to Clean Suede Shoes with Household Products

If you don’t have suede-specific cleaning products, you can try using white vinegar, rubbing alcohol, or cornstarch to clean suede shoes.

Follow the steps outlined earlier in this post for cleaning suede shoes with vinegar or alcohol. For grease stains, apply cornstarch to the stain, let it sit for several hours or overnight, then brush away the cornstarch with a suede brush or soft-bristled toothbrush.

How to Clean Suede Shoes with Suede Cleaner

Using a suede cleaner specifically designed for suede shoes is an effective way to keep your shoes looking fresh. To clean your suede shoes with a suede cleaner:

Brush the shoes with a suede brush to remove loose dirt and debris.
Apply the suede cleaner according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Gently scrub the shoes with the suede brush, focusing on stained areas.
Wipe away any excess cleaner with a clean, dry cloth.
Allow the shoes to air dry completely, away from direct sunlight or heat sources.
Brush the shoes again with a suede brush to restore the nap.

How to clean suede shoes WITHOUT suede cleaner

If you don’t have suede cleaner on hand, there are alternative household items you can use to clean suede shoes effectively. Here’s how to clean suede shoes without suede cleaner:

Dry Brushing: Begin by using a soft-bristled toothbrush or a clean, dry cloth to gently brush away loose dirt and debris. Be sure to brush in the direction of the nap and avoid scrubbing or rubbing the suede.
Erase Stains: For small stains, use a regular pencil eraser to gently rub the stained area until the stain starts to lift. Remember to be patient, as some stains may require more effort. Always rub in the direction of the nap for the best results.
White Vinegar: To tackle more stubborn stains, white vinegar can be an effective solution. Dilute white vinegar with an equal amount of water in a small bowl. Dip a clean, dry cloth or sponge into the diluted vinegar, making sure it’s damp but not soaked. Gently dab the stained area with the damp cloth, being careful not to rub or scrub the suede. Allow the shoes to air dry completely.
Rubbing Alcohol: Another option is to use rubbing alcohol to treat persistent stains. Pour a small amount of rubbing alcohol into a small bowl. Dip a clean, dry cloth or sponge into the alcohol, ensuring it’s damp but not soaked. Gently dab the stained areas on your suede shoes, being careful not to rub or scrub. Allow the shoes to air dry completely.
Cornstarch for Grease Stains: For grease stains, sprinkle cornstarch or talcum powder over the affected area and let it sit for a few hours or overnight. The powder will help absorb the grease and lift it from the suede. Once the time has passed, gently brush away the powder with a soft-bristled toothbrush or a clean, dry cloth.
Air Drying: After cleaning your suede shoes, always allow them to air dry completely in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight or heat sources. Never use a hairdryer or heater to dry suede shoes, as this can cause damage.
Final Brushing: Once your suede shoes are completely dry, give them a final brush with a soft-bristled toothbrush or a clean, dry cloth to restore the nap and remove any lingering dirt or debris.

By following these steps and using alternative household products, you can effectively clean your suede shoes without using a suede cleaner.

Cleaning suede shoes doesn’t have to be a daunting task, even if you don’t have suede cleaner on hand.

With some simple household items like white vinegar, rubbing alcohol, cornstarch, and a soft-bristled toothbrush or cloth, you can effectively clean your suede shoes and keep them looking fresh and well-maintained.

The key to successfully cleaning suede shoes lies in using gentle techniques, being patient with stubborn stains, and allowing your shoes to air dry completely.

By following the steps and tips provided in this guide, you can confidently care for your suede shoes and enjoy their style and comfort for years to come.

Happy Cleaning!

xoxo, Andrea Jean

ANDREA JEAN

"Refreshed Home Co" – Organization, Tricks, & More

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