how to clean suede sneakers

Suede sneakers are fashionable, high-quality, and soft to the touch; however, they can be challenging to care for. Unlike leather or mesh footwear, suede necessitates more delicate handling due to its fragile nature, which makes it susceptible to staining, fading, or texture loss. Whether your sneakers have accumulated dust, watermarks, mud, or general dirt, effective cleaning can restore their appearance.

In this comprehensive guide, you will discover a step-by-step process for safely cleaning suede sneakers at home, the necessary tools, and methods to protect them for long-term use. This article is ideal for novices and sneaker aficionados who wish to preserve their suede shoes without harming the material.

What Contributes to the Cleaning Challenges of Suede ?

Suede is crafted from the inner layer of leather, resulting in a soft, textured surface referred to as the “nap.” While this nap imparts a luxurious appearance to suede, it also has a tendency to absorb stains rapidly and is adversely affected by water. If not cleaned correctly, suede may:

• Darken when exposed to moisture
• Develop smooth patches or lose its soft texture
• Absorb oils and dirt deeply
• Become stiff or sustain damage
• Therefore, it is essential to utilize specific tools and techniques to clean suede sneakers effectively.

Essential Tools for Cleaning Suede Sneakers

1. Before you start, ensure you possess the appropriate materials:
2. Suede Brush – Utilized for eliminating dirt and rejuvenating the nap.
3. Suede Eraser (or a standard white eraser)—Effective for erasing stains and blemishes.
4. Microfiber Cloth – Ideal for gentle wiping and drying.
5. White Vinegar or Rubbing Alcohol – Safe solutions for spot cleaning.
6. Soft Toothbrush (optional)—Useful for cleaning delicate areas.
7. Paper Towels or Shoe Trees—To assist in maintaining the shoes’ shape during the drying process.
8. Suede Protector Spray—Provides long-lasting protection.

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

1. Remove Loose Dirt with a Suede Brush Begin by gently brushing the shoes to eliminate any surface dust and dirt.

Ensure that the sneakers are entirely dry prior to brushing.

Brush in a single direction to enhance the texture and eliminate loose particles. For more entrenched dirt, apply slightly firmer strokes, but be cautious not to exert excessive pressure. This single step improves the appearance of suede by 20–30 percent.

2. Utilize a Suede Eraser for Scuff Marks and Stains

• A suede eraser is specifically crafted to eliminate more stubborn marks that brushing alone cannot address.
• Gently rub the eraser over the stain using small circular motions.
• Keep going until the stain begins to diminish.
• Afterward, brush again to bring back the original texture.
• In the absence of a specialized eraser, a standard white pencil eraser can also be effective.

3. Remove Stubborn Stains with White Vinegar or Rubbing Alcohol

Suede should not be cleaned with water, as it may result in lasting marks. Instead, opt for white vinegar or rubbing alcohol.

Instructions for use:

• Dab a small quantity of vinegar or alcohol onto a microfiber cloth.
• Carefully massage the stained region using small circular movements.
• Allow it to dry thoroughly.
• Brush the suede again to restore its nap.
• These substances are effective because they eliminate stains without saturating the suede or harming its fibers.

4. Address Mud Stains Appropriately

Mud should not be cleaned while it remains wet.

Steps:

• Allow the mud to dry thoroughly.
• Remove larger pieces by hand.
• Utilize a suede brush or a toothbrush to eliminate any leftover dirt.
• If a stain persists, apply vinegar or alcohol.
• Attempting to clean wet mud may cause it to penetrate further into the suede; thus, patience is essential.

5. Repair Water Stains on Suede Sneakers

If your suede sneakers exhibit watermarks, you can smooth them out.

Steps:

• Gently dampen the entire shoe with a minimal amount of water using a cloth.

• Fill the sneakers with paper towels or shoe trees.

Allow them to air dry naturally, keeping them away from direct sunlight or heat sources.

• Brush the suede to rejuvenate its texture.

• Evenly moistening the surface helps to make water rings less noticeable.

Additional Recommendations for Maintaining Suede Sneakers

Avoid Excessive Water Usage

Too much water can irreparably damage suede. Always apply a minimal amount of liquid and allow the shoes to dry naturally.

Refrain from Using Heat for Drying

Do not utilize a dryer, heater, or hair dryer, or expose them to direct sunlight. Heat can cause the material to harden and diminish its color.

Ensure Proper Storage

Store suede sneakers in a cool, dry environment. Employ shoe trees to help retain their shape.

Utilize Suede Protector Spray

Applying a suede protector spray to your sneakers provides a protective layer, enhancing their resistance to stains and moisture. The spray should be applied:

• After cleaning
• Every 2–4 weeks if worn frequently
• This straightforward measure significantly extends the lifespan of your suede sneakers.

How Frequently Should You Clean Suede Sneakers?

The frequency of cleaning is contingent upon how often you wear them:

Daily use: Lightly brush them each week and perform a deep clean once a month.

Occasional use: Brush them before and after each wear.

Stored shoes: Brush them every few weeks to avoid dust accumulation.

Consistent maintenance helps prevent deep stains and ensures that the sneakers remain looking new for an extended period.

Common Errors to Prevent When Cleaning Suede

• Applying water directly onto suede
• Scrubbing forcefully, which can harm the nap
• Utilizing colored fabrics that might bleed dye
• Drying footwear in direct sunlight or heat
• Employing soap or abrasive chemicals
• Steering clear of these errors helps maintain the softness and vibrancy of the suede.

 
FAQs Regarding the Cleaning of Suede Sneakers

Is it permissible to use water for cleaning suede sneakers?

No. Water may cause marks and harm the texture. Instead, utilize white vinegar or rubbing alcohol.

What is the method for eliminating oil stains from suede?

Apply a small quantity of cornstarch or talcum powder and allow it to sit overnight. Brush it off the following day.

Is it advisable to wash suede sneakers in a washing machine?

Absolutely not. Washing machines can irreparably damage suede.

How can I maintain the appearance of my suede sneakers?

Regularly brush them, steer clear of muddy areas, and apply a suede protector spray.

What should I do if my suede sneakers emit an unpleasant odor?

Place baking soda inside the shoes overnight, then shake it out the next morning.