How to Clean Suede Shoes in 6 Easy Steps

You can use a clean cloth or brush to remove stains, ensuring that the next time you wear suede shoes, they're spotless. Greens and Blues / Shutterstock

Suede shoes are stylish, soft and oh-so-smooth, but keeping them clean can feel like a science experiment. Unlike other materials, suede needs special care to maintain its velvety texture and avoid damage. Don't worry — with the right tools and techniques, you can learn how to clean suede shoes and make your footwear look as good as new.

Let's break down the step-by-step process for suede cleaning, sticking with tried-and-true methods here!

Contents

Before You Start: Gather Your Materials
Step 1: Brush Off Loose Dirt
Step 2: Remove Scuff Marks
Step 3: Treat Stains
Step 4: Refresh the Nap
Step 5: Protect Your Shoes
Step 6: Store Properly

Before You Start: Gather Your Materials

Here's what you'll need:

A suede brush or a soft-bristle toothbrush
A suede eraser or suede rubber
A suede cleaning solution or white vinegar/rubbing alcohol
Baking soda (for oil and grease stains)
A clean towel or microfiber cloth
Suede protector spray (optional)
Cedar shoe tree (optional)

Having these materials on hand ensures you're ready to tackle dirt, stains and scuffs with precision.

Step 1: Brush Off Loose Dirt

Start by using a suede brush to gently brush away surface dirt and dust. Always brush in the same direction to avoid damaging the suede fibers. This step restores the nap (the soft, raised texture of suede) and preps the surface for deeper cleaning.

If you're cleaning suede sneakers or boots that are muddy, wait until the mud dries completely before brushing it off. Wet suede is more delicate and easier to damage.

Step 2: Remove Scuff Marks

Scuff marks can dull your suede footwear. Luckily they're easy to fix. Take a suede eraser or rubber eraser and gently rub the scuffed areas. Use small, circular motions, applying light pressure to avoid tearing the material.

For tougher scuff marks, try combining the eraser with your suede brush to lift stubborn stains effectively.

Step 3: Treat Stains

Tough stains like oil and grease can be tricky, but never fear: Baking soda is your secret weapon. Sprinkle a small amount of baking soda directly on the stain and let it sit for a few hours to absorb the oil. Then, gently brush it off with your suede brush.

For other types of stains, like watermarks, dampen a microfiber cloth with a suede cleaning solution or white vinegar. Gently dab the stained area, being careful not to soak the suede. Allow the shoe to air dry completely before brushing to restore the nap.

Step 4: Refresh the Nap

After cleaning, the suede's nap may look flattened. Don't fret! Use your suede brush to gently brush the entire shoe, always in the same direction.

For stubborn areas, lightly steaming the suede can help loosen the fibers before brushing. Hold the shoe above a pot of boiling water if you don't have a steam cleaner for clothes or a steaming function on your iron.

This step ensures your suede footwear looks fresh and velvety.

Step 5: Protect Your Shoes

To keep your suede shoes looking great longer, apply a suede protector spray. Hold the spray about 6 inches from the shoe and apply an even coat, ensuring full coverage. Let the shoes dry completely before wearing them.

A suede protectant creates a barrier against dirt, moisture and stains, making future cleanings easier and prolonging the life of your shoes.

Step 6: Store Properly

When you're not wearing your suede shoes, store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Using a cedar shoe tree can help maintain their shape and absorb excess moisture, preventing damage.

Proper storage keeps your suede footwear ready to wear and looking fresh. Whether you're rocking suede sneakers or formal shoes, these steps will ensure they're always at their best.

We created this article in conjunction with AI technology, then made sure it was fact-checked and edited by a HowStuffWorks editor.