Suede is delicate but cleans up well with the right dry tools instead of water. This shows you how to brush away dirt, lift stains, and revive the soft nap so your suede shoes look fresh again.
What you'll need
- A suede brush
- A suede eraser or a clean pencil eraser
- White vinegar or suede cleaner
- A clean cloth
- A towel or shoe trees
Step by step
- Let mud dry completelyIf the shoes are muddy, wait until the dirt is fully dry. Wet suede smears, so never try to clean fresh mud.
- Brush off loose dirtUse a suede brush and stroke in one direction to lift surface dirt and dust from the nap.
- Rub out marks with an eraserWork a suede or pencil eraser back and forth over scuffs and stains, then brush away the crumbs the eraser leaves behind.
- Treat stubborn stainsDampen a cloth with a little white vinegar or suede cleaner and gently blot the stain. Let the spot air-dry, since suede darkens temporarily when damp.
- Restore the napOnce dry, brush the suede again to lift the fibers and even out the texture so the surface looks uniform.
- Protect for next timeApply a suede protector spray and let it dry, which helps repel water and stains going forward.
Handy tips
- Always brush suede in a single direction to keep the nap looking even.
- Stuff the shoes with a towel or shoe trees while drying so they hold their shape.
- Test any liquid cleaner on a hidden spot first, since suede can change color when wet.
Heads up
- Do not soak suede or put it in the washing machine. Water and machine agitation can stiffen the material and cause permanent stains or damage.
FAQ
Can I use water on suede?
Only sparingly. A cloth lightly dampened with vinegar or cleaner is fine for stains, but soaking suede can ruin its texture and leave marks.
How do I remove a water stain from suede?
Lightly dampen the whole panel evenly with a cloth, blot, then let it dry and brush the nap. Even moisture prevents a hard ring from forming.
What can I use if I do not have a suede brush?
A clean, dry toothbrush or a nail brush works in a pinch for lifting dirt, and a plain pencil eraser can handle small scuffs.