Staining or scuffing your precious suede shoes can put a damper on a good date or outing with friends. After all, suede is pretty notorious for being unforgiving when it comes to damage. At this point you are probably asking yourself just how to clean suede shoes and rid of the extra stress. Luckily, suede isn’t completely intolerant to the right cleaning techniques and it is possible so get your shoes looking new again.
Suede and nubuck shoes differ from other leather shoes in your collection because of their soft texture. Extra sanding contributes to the velvety feel and the higher potential for damage. Catering to these features with the right tools will have your shoes looking fresh and new in no time.
Finding the right brush for the job
When it comes to cleaning your suede or nubuck shoes, it comes down to choosing the right brush for the job. A brush is useful first for sweeping away dirt and debris. In conjunction, it is the perfect tool to work out stubborn scuffs and stains.
Nylon and brass bristles are perfect for cutting through the first layer of dirt and debris left on your suede shoes. On the other hand, utilizing materials like silicone or rubber and an eraser tool is useful when it comes to tackling deeper damage.
The FootFitter Suede and Nubuck Leather 4-Way Shoe Cleaner Brush takes advantage of a nylon-brass combination to reduce light buildup, silicone bristles for heavier stains and scuffs and a thin rubber blade for hard-to-reach crevices.
The FootFitter Professional 4-Way Suede and Nubuck Cleaner takes advantage of its unique shape to make gripping easier even during vigorous use.
In addition, this tool also utilizes both nylon and brass bristles for stain and scuff removal. Meanwhile, the added eraser is ideal for delicate suede and the rubber crepe tool helps to restore texture and top quality.
How to clean suede shoes
When it comes down to how to clean suede shoes, it is best to handle the issue immediately. Fresh stains are much easier to work out compared to stains that have marinated and sunk into the shoe over time.
So, even when your date or night with friends gets ruined by someone seriously stepping on your suede or spilling something on your favorite shoes, fight the urge to defeatedly chuck them in the back of your closet.
Get your game face on and grab your tools because it’s time to restore your perfect boots or heels.
1. Start by using your brush to sweep away any leftover dirt or debris.
Suede and nubuck are sensitive to water so it is best to start with dry shoes. Instead of brushing back and forth, work away excess irritants in the same direction. At this point in the process, it is best to follow the direction the suede naturally falls in. Using nylon or brass bristles is most effective for this.
2. Switch to silicone or rubber for more difficult stain and scuff removal.
When it comes to those really deep and difficult stains and scuffs, it’s time to switch up your technique a bit. At this stage, it is okay to brush back and forth. In a vigorous motion, move your brush over the damage until it lifts from the suede.
3. After the damage disappears, use a spray to protect your suede in the future.
Where there is suede, there will always be the potential for scuffs and stains. However, using a water and stain repellant, like the one from our friends at X Sneaker Care, can save you from possible future water and oil damage. It’s always good to be prepared before an issue arises.
As the great Elvis Presley said, ” You can do anything, but stay off of my blue suede shoes.”
But now, even if they do step on your favorite kicks, you have a plan of attack for how to clean suede shoes and get them looking right back to their perfect form.
