How to clean suede shoes - home remedies

Suede does not tolerate heavy contact with water, and due to the long bristles, it is impossible to polish it (as is the case with grain leather). Shoe stores offer preparations and specialized products for professional care of suede shoes, but this also involves higher costs.

Therefore, it is worth learning a few simple home remedies that will help you effectively remove unwanted dirt from your favorite suede shoes without spending a lot of money!

How to clean suede shoes at home?

1.Stoothbrush

It is perfect for removing the remains of dried mud that has stuck to the surface of the shoe. It is best for the brush to be made of soft and delicate bristles so as not to damage the material during cleaning. Before cleaning, leave the shoe to dry completely and then gently brush off any dirt. Remember to do this in the direction of the bristles.

2. Eraser

It can successfully replace a professional suede eraser available in shoe stores. It is important that it is white. Using the eraser, you can easily remove small dirt visible on the suede. Just rub the stain gently and then remove the remnants of the eraser. And that's it!

3. Bread crust

You can easily remove small, dried dirt with a bread peel. Gently rubbing the inside (soft) side of the leather will help get rid of dirt, but it will certainly not damage the material of the shoes. After the procedure, just shake off the bread crumbs.

4. Baby wipes

This method will work well for greasy stains on your favorite suede shoes. Gently wipe dry shoes with a damp cloth and let them dry again. Then wipe the suede with a soft cloth or a soft-bristled brush.

5. Baking soda

It will work not only when cleaning suede shoes from the outside, but also from the inside.
A spoon of baking soda mixed with a glass of milk applied to the surface of the shoe will effectively remove stains and dirt. Simply spread the resulting paste evenly over the suede, leave it to dry, and then remove the remnants of the mixture with a brush.
Baking soda is also a great way to get rid of unpleasant smell from shoes. Pour a small amount of powder into the shoe. Leave the prepared shoes overnight and then remove any baking soda residue. The bad smell will disappear and the shoes will become fresh and ready for use.

Some tips on caring for suede shoes

For the above home methods to clean suede shoes to work, any dirt should be treated as quickly as possible. Care for your shoes regularly and thoroughly, and in rainy and winter seasons it is best to do it after each return home. This way you will avoid dirt from penetrating into the bristles.

When caring for suede, it is equally important to skillfully dry wet shoes. It should take place in airy but shaded places, away from direct sunlight or intense heat sources that could cause deformation of the shoes.

Storing footwear before the next season is a key element so that it can retain its natural shape and color. Before storing your shoes in the locker, make sure they are clean and dry. It is best to stuff their interior with newspaper and then leave them in a dark and airy place so that they can "breathe" freely.

Is it safe to wash suede shoes in a washing machine?

Machine washing is definitely the easiest way to quickly and effectively clean shoes at home, but it is strongly discouraged in the case of suede. This material does not tolerate contact with water, both when washing in a washing machine and when washing by hand. Excessive moisture may cause irreversible discoloration and deformation of suede.