It’s easy to create a great style with the elegant look of suede shoes. However, if the appearance of these suede shoes is stained with dirt, no matter how polished your outfit is, it will negatively impact your style. Suede, a soft and delicate material, easily absorbs dirt due to its porous texture. If left uncleaned for a long time, the dirt penetrates the fabric and causes discoloration, rough spots, and even permanent damage, reducing the lifespan of the shoes and wasting your money.
Regular cleaning keeps suede shoes looking elegant, making them appear polished and well-cared-for, which is especially important in stylish or professional settings. With the right tools, such as a suede brush, eraser, and special cleaner, cleaning suede is easy and effective. However, in this article, we will learn how to clean suede shoes without a suede cleaner.
Why Write This Article
Hey, I’m R. Taylor. A few days ago, my friend Samuel and I were out shopping at his house. Just then, I felt the soles of my boots coming apart. I shared the matter with Samuel and asked him if he had any superglue at home. He thoughtfully said that he didn’t have any superglue, but he did have a pair of suede shoes I could use for shopping later.
The shoes were nice but a little dirty. Samuel, in a shy voice, said he didn’t have any suede cleaner. I smiled and asked him to bring some tools. After some time, we cleaned the shoes and went out shopping. My friend was amazed to see how I cleaned suede shoes without a suede cleaner and asked me to write an article on this so that many people like him could benefit.
How to Clean Suede Shoes Without Suede Cleaner
What You’ll Need
- Microfiber towel
- Toothbrush
- Pencil eraser
- White vinegar/alcohol
- Suede protector spray
Microfiber Towel
Toothbrush
Pencil Eraser
White Vinegar/Alcohol
Suede Protector Spray
To be honest, I haven’t found an alternative to suede protector spray. I’ve used the best shoe protector spray for my white shoes as an alternative, but for suede, I strongly recommend keeping a dedicated suede protector spray at home to ensure the longevity of your shoes.
How to Clean Suede Shoes
Step 1: Start with the Basics
Step 2: Brush Out Stubborn Dirt
Step 3: Erase Scuffs Like Magic
Step 4: Treat Stains with Vinegar or Alcohol
Step 5: Apply Suede Protector Spray
Removing stains from suede shoes
How to Remove Water Stains
I may sound ridiculous to many when I suggest removing water stains with water, but I assure you that it works:
- Wet a clean cloth lightly with water and wring out the excess.
- Blot the stained area thoroughly with the damp cloth.
- Let the shoes dry naturally, away from heat or sunlight.
- Once dry, use a suede brush or toothbrush to gently restore the nap (the soft texture).
How to Remove Salt Stains
White salt stains are especially common in winter. To clean these stains:
- Mix equal parts white vinegar and water.
- Apply the mixture to a clean cloth and gently wipe the salt stain.
- Dry the shoes, then brush the area to restore the texture.
How to Remove Ink Stains
Ink stains can be quite damaging to suede shoes, and they can be permanent. However, quick action can protect the shoes from lasting damage:
- Apply rubbing alcohol or white vinegar to a cotton ball.
- Gently blot the ink stain—avoid rubbing, as this can spread the ink.
- Let it dry completely, then brush the area to restore its shine.
How to Remove Wax Stains
The method for removing wax stains is a bit different and requires patience:
- Let the wax harden—place the shoe in a cool area or use an ice pack to speed up the process.
- Gently scrape off the hardened wax with a dull knife.
- Place a paper towel over any remaining wax residue and press lightly with a warm iron to absorb it.
- Finally, scrub the area with a brush.
How to Remove Gum Stains
Sticky gum stains are easier to remove when cool:
- Place the shoe in a plastic bag and refrigerate it for a few hours.
- Once the gum has hardened, carefully peel it off with a blunt tool.
- Brush the area to restore the suede fibers.
How to Remove Mud Stains
Mud is a combination of water and soil, making it quite harmful to suede shoes. It sticks to the fabric and creates unsightly stains. To remove mud stains:
- Let the mud dry completely—do not try to clean wet mud.
- Once dry, brush off the dirt thoroughly with a suede brush or toothbrush.
- To remove stubborn stains, gently wipe the area with a slightly damp cloth and water.
- Let it dry and brush it off again.
How to Remove Grease and Oil Stains
If you find grease or oil stains difficult to remove, I assure you that you can tackle them with talcum powder or cornstarch, which you likely have at home. This method is easy but a bit time-consuming:
- Sprinkle talcum powder or cornstarch directly on the stain and let it sit overnight.
- The next day, use a brush to rub the cornstarch off your shoes and pull the stain out.
I’ve successfully cleaned my shoes using these techniques time and again. However, I’ve also made mistakes and ruined shoes in the past. Now, I am extra careful when cleaning suede shoes.
If you’re learning how to clean suede shoes without suede cleaner, I think you should take a look at the following precautions.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cleaning Suede
1. Using Too Much Water
I’ve found that water is the biggest enemy of suede shoes. Water hardens the texture of the suede, dulls its flexibility, and creates stains. Always use minimal water and blot gently.
2. Scrubbing Too Hard
Hard scrubbing damages the texture of suede. Always use a soft suede brush or toothbrush with light pressure, brushing in one direction to protect the softness of the material.
3. Skipping the Drying Step
Not letting your shoes dry completely before brushing or treating them can make stains worse or cause them to spread. Always allow the suede to dry naturally. Stay away from heat sources like radiators or hair dryers.
4. Using Harsh Chemicals
Household cleaners like bleach, ammonia, or detergents can damage the delicate fibers of suede. Stick to gentle solutions like white vinegar, rubbing alcohol, or products specifically made for suede.
5. Testing a Small Area First
Many solutions can discolor your suede shoes. Always test a small area before applying harsh solutions to the stain.
6. Ignoring Dirt or Stains for Too Long
Whenever a new stain appears on your suede shoes, try to remove it as soon as possible. Ignoring the stain for too long can cause it to set permanently.
7. Forgetting to Restore the Nap
Always finish by brushing the surface with a suede brush or soft toothbrush to restore the natural texture of the suede after cleaning.
8. Using the Wrong Tools
Using the wrong tools, such as rough brushes or cloths, can scratch or tear suede. Always use a dedicated suede brush, microfiber towel, or other gentle tools.
Avoid these mistakes, clean suede with care, and your shoes will stay in great shape for years to come. With a little patience and the right approach, you’ll also learn how to clean suede shoes without suede cleaner, which will help you save money.
Tips for Maintaining Suede Shoes After Cleaning
1. Brush your suede shoes after wearing them: Brushing isn’t just for cleaning—it also helps restore the soft, velvety texture of the suede. Regular brushing removes dust and prevents dirt from settling in.
2. Invest in a suede protector spray: I apply the suede protector spray to my shoes once a week (since I wear suede shoes often). It creates a protective layer that shields the shoes from water and stains.
3. Store your shoes properly: I always store my suede shoes in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight, using a shoe tree. This helps maintain both the color and shape of the shoes.
With just these few simple habits, your shoes will stay fresh and stylish, no matter how much you wear them!
Community Q&A
Can I use water to clean suede shoes?
Community Answer
What household items can I use to clean suede?
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Can I wash suede shoes in the washing machine?
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How can I restore the softness of suede after cleaning?
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What is the best way to prevent future stains?
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Can I use soap or detergent to clean suede?
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Can I clean suede with baby shampoo?
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About This Article
Co-authored by:
R.Tylor
Designer Shoe & Bag Care Specialist
Co-authors: 2
Updated: December 09, 2024
