What you need
- A suede brush (with soft bristles or rubber)
- A suede eraser
- A microfiber cloth
- A cleaner specifically designed for suede, for tough stains only.
- Paper for stuffing shoes
Step by step: how to clean suede
- Make sure they’re dry. Never clean wet suede. If they get wet, stuff them with paper and let them air dry at room temperature.
- Brush dry. Brush in one direction only to remove dust and raise the nap of the suede.
- Use the eraser. Gently rub the marks and scuffs with the suede eraser.
- Tough stains. Apply a small amount of suede cleaner with the brush while the fabric is still as damp as possible, and remove the excess with the cloth.
- Dry and style. Let them air dry, away from sunlight and heat sources. Once dry, brush them again to restore their texture.
- Protect. With the suede clean and dry, apply a protective water-repellent spray.
What to avoid with suede
- Soak it or put it in the washing machine
- Dish soap and plenty of water, which leaves stains and hardens the paint.
- Dryer, hair dryer, or radiator
- Brushes with stiff bristles, which crush or pull out hair
- Chlorine or solvents
How to clean the soles of suede sneakers
Rubber soles can withstand soap and water. Clean them with a stiff brush and a mild solution, but be careful not to get the surrounding suede wet. Covering the edge with painter’s tape helps protect it.