Suede is characterized by its rough surface and is also known as suede. It requires special care and, unlike smooth leather, is more susceptible to dirt. You can use practical tools and home remedies for dirt such as grease or water stains. Here’s how to properly clean suede shoes.
Good basic equipment makes shoe care easier for you. For suede you need a special suede brush, a leather eraser and a maintenance spray. In this way you can remove most of the dirt on the rough leather. It is important that you always treat suede shoes with a waterproofing spray after cleaning to better protect them from future soiling. Keep sufficient distance while spraying. This way you don’t breathe in the spray and the shoes are evenly covered by the protective layer.
The soft surface of suede shoes absorbs grease, which is why a quick remedy is required. Act directly and blot the grease stains with a paper towel. Be careful not to rub, as this will drive the fat deeper into the material. Once you’ve dabbed at the grease, you can then spray the stains with dry shampoo or upholstery foam. Allow the agent to take effect and then brush it out thoroughly with a soft brush. If the stains are still visible, repeat the process. To restore the rough surface of the shoes, use a matching suede brush.
Water stains often occur in snowy weather or heavy rain. A proven household remedy is suitable for cleaning the water marks: vinegar. Dip a cloth in vinegar and gently dab the shoe with it. Note that vinegar can bleach colors, so use this home remedy sparingly. Finally, you can treat the suede shoes with clear water and dry shampoo. Special salt marks caused by road salt in winter can be removed with a suede eraser. In the future you will protect your shoes from dirt if you regularly treat the suede shoes with a waterproofing spray.
Tip: Do not dry suede shoes in direct sunlight, UV rays can bleach the material.
Yes, you can wash suede shoes in the washing machine. Use a gentle cycle (e.g. a wool cycle) and avoid detergents. You can then put newspaper inside the shoes so that it absorbs the moisture and the shoes dry faster. As soon as the suede shoes are dry, the material must be roughened up again with a suede brush.
Shoe care also works with natural home remedies. Baking soda, for example, sucks oil out of suede. To do this, sprinkle the oil stains with baking soda and wait for the powder to absorb the oil from the shoes. Then carefully brush out the rough leather. For stubborn stains, repeat the process several times. As described, roughen the material again after cleaning with a suitable suede brush.
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