A Complete Guide: Cleaning Suede Shoes at Home

Loafers

Suede offers a soft, velvety texture that delivers a luxurious, timeless look. This premium leather, however, is delicate and vulnerable to water and stains. Follow this guide for tools, step-by-step cleaning, stain solutions, storage advice, and pitfalls to avoid.

What Is Suede and Why Special Care?

Suede comes from the inner layer of animal hide, processed to create its signature napped, plush surface. This gives it a refined, upscale vibe perfect for shoes like Chelsea boots, loafers, or sneakers.

Essential Tools for Suede Cleaning

These basics for effective home care:

  • Suede brush: Stiff horsehair bristles lift dirt, scuffs, and apply products gently.
  • Suede eraser: Crumbly rubber tackles spots, dirt, and water marks (a plain eraser works in a pinch).
  • Suede cleaner: Use a cleaning form and baking soda (oil).

Step-by-Step Cleaning Process

Clean only when shoes are fully dry, stuff with towels, paper, or shoe trees to protect the interior.

Step 1: Brush Off Loose Dirt

Never submerge in water—it ruins the material. Brush in the nap’s direction with gentle strokes, using back-and-forth for tougher spots.

Step 2: Erase Stains and Scuffs

Rub lightly with a suede eraser to lift marks without pushing them deeper.

Step 3: Tackle Tough Stains

Use form cleaner on a microfiber cloth and test in a hidden spot. Apply sparingly.

  • Oil/grease: Sprinkle cornstarch or baking soda overnight, brush off, repeat if needed. Follow with form cleaner 
  • Mud/soil: Brush dry dirt, then use a form cleaner on a cloth. 

Step 4: Dry Properly

Blot excess moisture. Air-dry in a cool, ventilated spot away from sun or heat (no hairdryers). Stuff to hold shape.

Maintenance and Storage Tips

  • Brush and check after every wear.
  • Clean major stains promptly—they set deeper over time.
  • Skip wet weather.

Storage:

  • Stuff with crashed paper or shoe trees for shape.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • No soaking or washing: Water causes marks and texture changes.
  • No direct heat: Dryers warp or shrink suede.
  • No over-brushing: Gentle pressure prevents fiber damage.
  • No harsh chemicals or polish: They discolor; skip wet wipes too.