How to Clean Suede Shoes

When Lily spotted a pair of soft brown suede boots in a boutique window, she didn’t think twice. She had been looking for the perfect pair for weeks, and these felt like love at first step. But just a few days later, after walking through a dusty parking lot, her boots were already looking tired and stained. She panicked—was suede really that hard to care for? That’s when she realized she needed to learn how to clean suede shoes properly before they were ruined.

If you’ve ever owned suede shoes, you know they’re not as easy to clean as sneakers or leather. But that doesn’t mean you have to give up on them. In fact, knowing how to clean suede shoes the right way can make all the difference. With a few simple tools and the right method, you can remove stains, restore texture, and bring your suede shoes back to life.

Whether it’s a little dirt, a stubborn stain, or just daily wear, you’ll learn how to clean suede shoes step-by-step in this guide. The key is being gentle, patient, and knowing what not to do.

Why Suede Needs Extra Care

Suede is made from the underside of leather, giving it that soft, velvet-like texture. This texture, called the “nap,” makes suede unique—but also delicate. It picks up dirt quickly and doesn’t handle water well. That’s why many people avoid cleaning it, afraid they’ll make it worse.

But the truth is, with the proper care and a bit of knowledge, cleaning suede isn’t as hard as it seems. Understanding how to clean suede shoes will not only keep them looking great but also help them last much longer.

What You’ll Need to Clean Suede Shoes

Before getting started, gather the following items. You don’t need expensive products—just a few simple tools:

• Soft suede brush (or a clean toothbrush)

• White vinegar or rubbing alcohol

• Clean microfiber cloth

• Suede eraser or a pencil eraser

• Paper towels

• Protective suede spray (optional but helpful)

These tools will help you lift dirt, clean stains, and restore the nap of the suede without damaging the material.

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

Step 1: Let Your Shoes Dry First

If your shoes are wet or have just been stained, don’t rush. Let them air dry completely. Avoid using a hair dryer or placing them near heat sources. Stuff them with paper towels (not newspaper, which can transfer ink) to help them keep their shape while drying.

Step 2: Brush Away Loose Dirt

Use your suede brush or toothbrush to gently brush off any loose dirt or dust. Always brush in one direction to follow the nap of the suede. This helps maintain the texture and keeps it from getting flat or rough.

Regular brushing even when your shoes aren’t visibly dirty can help prevent buildup and keep them fresh.

Step 3: Use a Suede Eraser for Marks

If you notice dry stains or scuff marks, try using a suede eraser or pencil eraser. Gently rub the stained area until the mark fades. Be careful not to press too hard, as this can damage the texture.

After erasing, brush the area again to restore the nap.

Step 4: Remove Stains with Vinegar or Alcohol

For tougher stains, like from water, salt, or even food, you’ll need white vinegar or rubbing alcohol.

• Lightly dampen a clean cloth with vinegar or alcohol.

• Gently dab the stained area—do not rub.

• Let it dry naturally.

• Once dry, use your brush to lift the nap.

These liquids work well because they evaporate quickly and won’t leave watermarks like regular water would.

Step 5: Steam to Lift the Nap (Optional)

If the nap still looks flat, hold the shoe above a kettle or pot of steaming water for a few seconds. The steam will soften the fibers. Then, brush gently in one direction. Be careful not to let the shoe get wet.

Step 6: Apply Suede Protector Spray

Once your shoes are clean and completely dry, use a suede protector spray to help prevent future stains. These sprays form a barrier that repels water and dirt. Apply in a well-ventilated area, using light, even sprays across the surface.

This step isn’t required, but it’s a good habit—especially if you live in a place with unpredictable weather.

Avoid These Common Mistakes

Knowing how to clean suede shoes also means knowing what not to do. Here are some things to avoid:

• Don’t use soap or regular shoe cleaner. These can discolor or damage suede.

• Avoid scrubbing with water. Water can leave rings and worsen stains.

• Don’t use too much pressure. Gentle motions protect the nap.

• Never machine wash suede. That’s a quick way to ruin the shoes completely.

How Often Should You Clean Suede Shoes?

Cleaning frequency depends on how often you wear them. For regular use, brush them weekly and deep clean once a month. For occasional wear, clean them lightly after each use and store them properly.

Storing them in a dust bag or shoe box in a dry place helps keep them clean and extends their life.

A Lesson Learned: Lily’s Suede Comeback

Back to Lily—she followed these steps after researching how to clean suede shoes. She waited patiently for her boots to dry, gently brushed them, and used a bit of vinegar on the dusty stain. To her surprise, the boots looked almost brand new the next day.

That little bit of care made all the difference. She even started wearing them more often, no longer worried about getting them dirty. Now, they’re her favorite pair—because they’ve been through life and came out looking good.

Final Thoughts

Suede shoes are stylish, soft, and comfortable—but they need a little extra attention. Now that you know how to clean suede shoes, you can keep your favorite pairs looking sharp for years.

The process is simple: brush, erase, blot with vinegar or alcohol, and protect. With these easy steps, you can take care of your suede shoes without stress. Whether it’s boots, loafers, or sneakers, suede doesn’t have to be scary anymore.

So next time life gets a little messy—just brush it off. Literally.