How To Care for Suede Shoes

Suede shoes are so special. They add an elevated vibe to every outfit, and can lean casual or dressy depending on how you style them. But it never fails, you splurge on a beautiful pair of suede boots, wear them twice, and suddenly they’ve seen better days. The delicate nature of suede is one of the biggest fears when deciding whether or not to invest in a pair. But knowing how to care for suede shoes is the key to making that soft, velvety texture last.

Caring for suede isn’t as high-maintenance as it seems. Today I’m sharing the tools and steps you need to keep your suede shoes looking great without expensive treatments. Here’s all you need to know on how to care for suede shoes so they stay looking as good as the day you bought them.

How to Care for Suede Shoes

Are Suede Shoes Hard To Clean?

This is usually the first thing people ask before investing in suede. After all it has a bit of a “high-maintenance” reputation. The truth is, suede shoes aren’t too hard to clean once you know a few simple tricks. With regular upkeep and the right tools, they’re actually pretty easy to care for and will hold onto that beautiful finish for years.

What to Use to Clean Suede Shoes

Before we get into steps on how to care for suede shoes, it helps to have the right tools on hand. Here’s what I use and recommend for my keeping them looking great:

How to Care For Suede Shoes

Once you have the right tools, here’s how to care for suede shoes so they stay soft, polished, and ready to wear (without feeling like you need professional cleaning every time).

Protect Before Wearing

Before you do anything else, use a light protective spray. Some people recommend cleaning suede before spraying. But it’s easier to care for suede once a protective spray has been used first. You want to create a barrier to dirt and dust. It will make getting rid of spots easier.

Clean Dry Suede

Suede is delicate, so you want to be gentle. Never clean suede with water. Always start with a suede brush to remove dirt and dust. Work in one direction to lift the nap (the texture) instead of flattening it. This step is part of regular suede care and maintenance.

Spot Treat Stains

For small marks, use a suede eraser. Rub gently, then use the brush again. For oil stains, sprinkle a little cornstarch or baking soda, let it sit overnight, and brush it off the next day. You can also use a suede cleaning solution with caution. I would recommend this for small spots (of course test an area first to make sure the color doesn’t bleed).

Water Stains

If your suede shoes get wet, blot the moisture with a towel, then stuff the shoes with paper or shoe trees to hold their shape. Once dry, you can brush the suede to revive the texture.

How to Care for Different Shoe Styles

Different types of suede shoes require slightly different care. Not too much, but here are a few tips to make it easier for eavch shoe style: 

Ankle Boots

Probably the easiest style to clean since they have less surface area. A quick brush and occasional protector spray (after the initial spray) usually keep them looking fresh.

Knee-High or Over-the-Knee Boots

Tall boots require a little more care because of the larger surface area and potential for creasing. Using shoe trees when storing them is key to keeping their shape.

Pumps and Flats

Smaller styles like pumps, ballet flats, and loafers are more delicate around the toe box. A suede eraser is essential for scuffs (those back of the heel scuffs too). Storing them in soft cloth bags also helps prevents scratches.

Suede Bags

These tips also apply to caring for suede bags. Use a protective spray before the first wear, use a suede brush lightly, and store in dust bags. Just like shoes, keeping them out of direct sunlight and away from moisture helps them last longer.

When investing in your wardrobe, you want pieces that last. Taking the extra time to learn how to care for suede shoes will get you longer wear, and help you build a beautiful collection that lasts for years. Using the steps above really goes a long way in keeping your suede shoes clean. It helps to use a protector spray first, before any stains can happen. Then regular upkeep with the suede brush, eraser, and proper shoe storage.

Shop My Favorite Suede Shoes and Boots

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For more timeless style inspiration, check out my post on the best boots to wear with dresses.