If you’ve ever owned a pair of suede shoes, you already know one thing—they’re gorgeous but high-maintenance. Suede’s soft, velvety texture gives it a luxurious look, but it’s also prone to stains, scuffs, and water marks. The good news? You can easily learn how to clean suede shoes at home with a few simple tricks (and a little patience).
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know—from removing dirt and water stains to restoring that buttery-soft finish—without spending a dime at the dry cleaners.
What Makes Suede Tricky to Clean
Suede is a type of leather made from the underside of animal hide. Its napped texture gives it that distinct softness but also makes it highly absorbent. This means water, oil, and dirt can easily cling to its surface, leaving behind stubborn stains.
Here’s why suede needs special care:
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It absorbs liquids quickly, making stains harder to remove.
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It scratches and scuffs easily if cleaned harshly.
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Standard cleaners or water can damage the nap (the soft, fuzzy surface).
That’s why the cleaning process for suede is totally different from other materials—gentle and dry methods work best.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Clean Suede Shoes
Let’s get into the exact steps for cleaning your suede shoes safely and effectively.
Step 1: Gather Your Tools
You’ll need:
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A suede brush or soft toothbrush
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A suede eraser (or a clean pencil eraser)
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White vinegar or rubbing alcohol
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A soft cloth or towel
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Suede protector spray (optional but recommended)
Step 2: Let the Shoes Dry Completely
Before cleaning, make sure your shoes are 100% dry. Wet suede is fragile and can tear or discolor easily. If your shoes are damp, stuff them with paper towels to hold their shape and let them air dry overnight.
Step 3: Brush Away Dirt and Dust
Use your suede brush or a clean toothbrush to gently brush away surface dirt. Always brush in one direction to lift the nap without damaging it.
If the dirt is deep, go over the area a few times but avoid scrubbing too hard.
Step 4: Erase Stains and Scuffs
For scuffs or dry marks, gently rub a suede eraser or a clean pencil eraser over the spot. Small circular motions usually do the trick.
You’ll notice the stain fading as the eraser picks up dirt and oil. Brush again afterward to restore the texture.
Step 5: Remove Stubborn Stains with Vinegar or Alcohol
If the stains persist, use white vinegar or rubbing alcohol—both are great suede-safe cleaners.
Here’s how:
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Dampen a soft cloth with a bit of vinegar or alcohol (not dripping wet).
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Gently blot the stained area—don’t rub.
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Let it air dry completely.
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Once dry, brush the area again to revive the nap.
This method works especially well for water stains, salt stains, and food marks.
Step 6: Revive the Nap
After cleaning, suede can sometimes look a bit flat. To restore its original texture:
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Gently rub the area with your suede brush.
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For extra fluff, hold the shoes over a little steam from a kettle for 10–15 seconds, then brush them again.
Step 7: Protect Your Suede
Once your shoes are clean, spray them with a suede protector. This adds a thin, invisible layer that repels water and dirt—keeping your shoes cleaner for longer.
Reapply the spray every few weeks if you wear your suede shoes regularly.
Quick Fixes for Common Suede Shoe Problems
| Problem | Solution |
| Water stains | Dab with vinegar or rubbing alcohol, then brush |
| Mud stains | Let dry completely, then brush off and erase residue |
| Oil or grease | Sprinkle cornstarch or baby powder overnight, then brush off |
| Flattened nap | Use a suede brush or steam treatment to lift fibers |
| Salt marks | Mix equal parts vinegar and water, dab lightly, and let dry |
FAQs About Cleaning Suede Shoes
1. Can I clean suede shoes with water?
It’s best to avoid water. Use vinegar or rubbing alcohol instead, as they won’t stain or stiffen the fabric.
2. What’s the best home remedy for cleaning suede?
A mix of white vinegar and a soft brush works wonders for removing most stains.
3. How do I remove oil from suede shoes?
Sprinkle baking soda or cornstarch on the stain, let it sit overnight, then brush it off.
4. Can I use a regular shoe brush on suede?
No. Always use a suede brush or soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid damaging the texture.
5. How often should I clean suede shoes?
Lightly brush them after every few wears and deep clean monthly if you wear them often.
Conclusion: Keep Your Suede Shoes Looking Fresh
Learning how to clean suede shoes isn’t as hard as it seems—it just takes the right tools and a bit of care. The key is to act quickly, clean gently, and protect your suede afterward.
With these tips, you can keep your favorite suede loafers, boots, or sneakers looking new for years. Treat them well, and they’ll stay effortlessly stylish no matter the season.
