Introduction
Suede shoes are a staple in many wardrobes, but they can be a pain to clean and maintain. From dirt and stains to water damage, suede shoes are prone to wear and tear over time. Without proper cleaning and care, they can lose their soft texture and become permanently damaged.
That’s why it’s important to know how to clean suede shoes properly. In this article, we’ll provide five simple steps for cleaning suede shoes like a pro, as well as tips for maintaining and prolonging the lifespan of your suede shoes. We’ll also cover natural methods for cleaning and treating suede, so you can avoid harsh cleaning agents and chemicals.
“5 Simple Steps to Clean Your Suede Shoes Like a Pro”
Cleaning suede shoes may seem daunting, especially if you’ve never done it before. But with these five simple steps, your suede shoes will look like new in no time:
Step 1: Brushing the suede
Before you start cleaning, brush the suede gently with a soft-bristled brush. This will remove any surface dirt or debris and help the suede fibers stand up for better cleaning.
Step 2: Removing dirt and stains with a suede eraser or brush
To remove dirt or stains, use a suede eraser or brush. Rub the eraser or brush over the affected area in a back-and-forth motion, using light to moderate pressure. Be careful not to press too hard or scrub too vigorously, as this can damage the delicate suede fibers.
Step 3: Applying a suede protector spray
To protect your suede shoes from future damage, apply a suede protector spray. Hold the spray bottle 6-8 inches away from the shoes and evenly coat the surface. Let the shoes dry completely before wearing or storing them.
Step 4: Caring for specific stains, such as water or oil
If your suede shoes have specific stains, such as water or oil, it’s important to treat them carefully. For water stains, lightly dampen the affected area with a clean, damp cloth and blot with a dry cloth. For oil stains, use cornstarch or talcum powder to absorb the oil before brushing it off gently.
Step 5: Drying suede shoes properly
Lastly, it’s important to dry your suede shoes properly to prevent damage. Stuff the shoes with clean, dry paper towels or newspaper to help them maintain their shape and absorb any excess moisture. Avoid using heat sources such as direct sunlight or a hairdryer, as this can shrink or damage the suede.
“How to Keep Your Suede Shoes Looking Like New”
Now that you know how to clean suede shoes properly, it’s important to maintain them to ensure they stay looking great. Here are some tips for keeping your suede shoes in top condition:
Using a suede protector spray
As mentioned earlier, a suede protector spray can help prevent future damage to your suede shoes. Apply the spray regularly, especially if you plan on wearing your suede shoes in inclement weather.
Avoiding wearing suede shoes in rain or snow
Suede shoes are not waterproof, so it’s best to avoid wearing them in wet or snowy conditions. If you must wear them outside, be sure to spray them with a protectant spray beforehand and let them dry completely before wearing them again.
Keeping suede shoes away from heat and direct sunlight
Suede shoes are sensitive to heat and direct sunlight, so it’s important to keep them away from these sources. Store them in a cool, dry place away from natural light and heat sources like radiators or heaters.
Storing suede shoes properly
To keep your suede shoes looking like new, it’s important to store them properly. Keep them in their original box or in a breathable shoe bag to prevent dust and dirt from settling on them. Avoid stacking suede shoes on top of each other to prevent rubbing and damage to the fibers.
Daily maintenance tips for suede shoes
Lastly, incorporating daily maintenance tips into your routine can help keep your suede shoes looking great. Use a soft-bristled brush to brush the suede and keep the fibers upright. Avoid wearing suede shoes on consecutive days to allow them to air out and avoid odor buildup.
“The Dos and Don’ts of Cleaning Suede Shoes”
When it comes to cleaning suede shoes, there are certain dos and don’ts you should keep in mind to avoid damaging them.
Why not to use water or regular cleaning agents on suede
Water and regular cleaning agents can damage suede shoes, so it’s important to avoid using them. Instead, use suede-specific cleaning tools and solutions to ensure your shoes stay in good condition.
Using suede-specific cleaning tools and solutions
To avoid damaging your suede shoes, be sure to use cleaning tools and solutions specifically designed for suede. These include suede erasers, suede brushes, and suede cleaner solutions. Avoid using regular soap or detergent on suede shoes, as these can be too harsh and damage the fibers.
Dealing with tough stains carefully
If you have tough stains on your suede shoes, it’s important to treat them carefully. Avoid using too much pressure or scrubbing too vigorously, as this can damage the fibers. Instead, try using natural solutions or take them to a professional cleaner to avoid further damage.
Avoiding common mistakes like scrubbing suede or using too much pressure
Lastly, avoid common cleaning mistakes such as scrubbing suede or using too much pressure when cleaning. This can damage the suede fibers and make your shoes look worn or faded. Instead, use gentle cleaning techniques and solutions to maintain the quality and texture of the suede.
“Natural Methods to Clean Your Suede Shoes”
For those who prefer to use natural products, here are some natural methods for cleaning and treating suede shoes:
Using baking soda to remove stains
Baking soda can be used to remove grease and oil stains from suede shoes. Sprinkle a small amount of baking soda on the affected areas and let it sit for a few hours. Brush the baking soda off gently with a suede brush or eraser.
Applying vinegar to remove odors
Vinegar is a natural deodorizer and can be used to remove odors from suede shoes. Apply equal parts white vinegar and water to a clean cloth and gently rub the suede. Let the shoes dry completely before brushing them with a suede brush.
Brushing suede with cornmeal for extra cleaning
Cornmeal is a great natural alternative to suede cleaner. Sprinkle a small amount of cornmeal on the affected area and gently rub it with a suede brush. Use a clean cloth to brush the cornmeal off and repeat the process if necessary.
Other natural solutions for cleaning and maintenance
Other natural solutions for cleaning and maintaining suede shoes include using a mixture of lemon juice and cream of tartar to remove stains, or using a mixture of water and vinegar to remove salt stains caused by snow and ice.
“Expert Tips to Clean Suede Shoes at Home”
For expert tips on cleaning suede shoes at home, we spoke with fashion industry professionals:
Advice from fashion industry professionals
“The most important thing to remember when cleaning suede shoes is to be gentle,” says fashion stylist Sarah Peterson. “Use a light touch and don’t apply too much pressure. And when in doubt, take them to a professional cleaner.”
How to deal with different types of suede shoes (e.g. boots, heels)
When it comes to cleaning different types of suede shoes, the same principles apply. However, it’s important to be extra careful with delicate suede shoes such as heels or loafers. Avoid getting water or cleaning solutions on the suede and use a soft-bristled brush to clean them gently.
Proper storage and maintenance for suede shoes
“Proper storage is key to maintaining suede shoes,” says fashion blogger Emily Jones. “Keep them in a cool, dry place away from sunlight and moisture. And always use a suede protector spray before wearing them outside.”
Tips for prolonging the lifespan of suede shoes
To prolong the lifespan of your suede shoes, it’s important to take good care of them. Brush them regularly, keep them away from heat and sunlight, and store them properly. And if you notice any signs of damage or wear and tear, take them to a professional cleaner right away.
Conclusion
In conclusion, cleaning suede shoes can seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools and techniques, it’s actually quite simple. Remember to avoid using water or regular cleaning agents on suede, use suede-specific cleaning tools and solutions, and be gentle when cleaning tough stains. Incorporate daily maintenance routines and use natural methods to keep your suede shoes looking like new. By following these tips, your suede shoes will remain in top condition and last for years to come.
