How to Clean Suede Shoes

What You'll Need

• Suede brush or clean toothbrush
• White eraser or suede eraser
• White vinegar
• Microfiber cloth
• Suede protector spray

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. 1

   Brush off dry dirt

   Use a suede brush or clean toothbrush to gently brush the surface in one direction. This removes loose dirt and restores the nap.

2. 2

   Erase scuff marks

   Rub a white eraser or suede eraser back and forth over scuff marks and stains. Apply light pressure -- the friction lifts dirt from the suede fibers.

3. 3

   Treat stubborn stains with vinegar

   Dampen a microfiber cloth with white vinegar and gently blot (not rub) stubborn stains. The vinegar evaporates cleanly without leaving water marks.

4. 4

   Brush and restore the nap

   Once dry, brush the entire shoe again in one direction to restore the soft, even texture of the suede.

5. 5

   Apply suede protector

   Spray a light, even coat of suede protector over the shoes. This creates an invisible barrier against future stains and water damage.

Pro Tips

• TIPStuff shoes with newspaper while drying to absorb moisture and maintain their shape.
• TIPFor water stains on suede, dampen the entire shoe evenly with a light mist, stuff with paper, and let it dry naturally -- this prevents a visible water line.
• TIPAlways brush suede shoes after every wear to prevent dirt from settling deep into the fibers.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• XUsing water to clean suede, which causes permanent staining and stiffens the material.
• XRubbing stains aggressively, which pushes dirt deeper into the suede and damages the soft texture.
• XDrying suede shoes near a heater or in direct sunlight, which causes fading and brittleness.

Frequently Asked Questions