How to remove salt from suede shoes?

Suede shoes are particularly sensitive to the effects of salt, which easily penetrates between the fibers of the material, causing its discoloration and gradual destruction. We are almost sure that the destructive effects of salt have often affected the appearance of your shoes. What's more, it certainly had an impact on your wallet, as unsightly white stains caused irreversible damage. So what should you do to keep your suede shoes looking like new during and after the winter season? Learn effective methods to remove salt from suede shoes.

How to remove salt from suede shoes

1. Prevention is the most important thing

Shoes made of suede should be properly impregnated immediately after purchase. Repeat this treatment regularly, especially in the winter season, when shoes are particularly exposed to salt and moisture.

The correct selection of impregnation is also important. Not only should it be appropriately matched to the type of material, but also to its color. If you want to be sure that the impregnation will not discolor or change the color of the suede, test it on an inconspicuous surface of the shoe before use, or choose a colorless preparation.

Another important element is quick response to any contamination. Try to clean your shoes as soon as possible, because the dirt left behind may penetrate the structure of the material, leaving discolorations or stains on it, which will be more and more difficult to get rid of over time.

2. Proper care

If, despite your best efforts, salt stains appear on your shoes, clean them properly.

• First, gently wipe your shoes with a slightly damp cloth to remove excess mud and sand.

• Leave the shoes to dry completely. Remember that when drying, the shoes should not be exposed to direct sunlight and should not be placed near an intense heat source, which could result in deformation and an unsightly change in shape. It is best to dry clean suede so as not to damage the structure of the bristles.

• When the shoes are dry, use a special rubber brush designed to remove stubborn and sticky stains that appear on suede. Gently rub the bristles until the salt stains disappear from the surface of the shoe.

• Finally, use an eraser to clean the suede, which will not only remove any remaining dirt left on the surface, but will also restore the natural look of your shoes.

3. Home ways to remove salt from suede shoes

If you don't want to spend money on preparations and products available in stores, you can use substitutes that you can find at home for small salt stains.

• Bread crust – gently rub the inside of the leather on dry shoes. Thanks to its absorbing properties, it will absorb salt deposits, leaving the shoes ready for next use.

• Eraser – it can be a much cheaper replacement for professional suede rubber bands available in shoe stores.

Washing shoes in a washing machine – is it a good idea?

Often, the first idea for quickly getting rid of dirt from shoes is to wash them in the washing machine. However, this is definitely a bad idea, especially for suede. This material does not tolerate heavy contact with water, especially when fully immersed. Washing suede shoes in the washing machine will certainly result in their irreversible deformation or damage to the material, which will result in getting rid of not only the salt, but also one of the pairs from your collection.