The common myth is that suede shoes are notoriously difficult to keep looking their best. However, don’t be put off as this really isn’t the case; whether it’s a new pair or you need to rejuvenate an old, at Cheaney, we’ve created a definitive guide on how to care for and protect suede shoes to ensure they remain in excellent condition for many more years of wear.

HOW TO CLEAN SUEDE SHOES

Whether it’s mud, rain damage or scuff marks, suede shoes can be susceptible to damage just like any other raw material. But knowing how to clean suede is essential to keeping them in good condition and we have a list (because who doesn’t love a list?!) of tools and tricks to guide you.

A SUEDE BRUSH

Investing in a good quality suede brush is one of the most important tools when it comes to how to cleaning suede shoes effectively, as it is excellent for brushing off dried stains such as mud. Ensuring your shoes are completely dry, use your suede brush to gently brush away the dirt and grime in small motions with a light hand. If necessary, brush against the nap of the suede but always finish brushing in the direction the natural grain to maintain its smooth finish.

SUEDE ERASER

For hard-to-tackle stains such as watermarks, oil and grease, a suede eraser can be an effective spot-cleaning tool. Simply rub the eraser as you would a standard one on any marks, making sure to only use a moderate amount of pressure.

SUEDE CLEANER

If brushing and spot-cleaning your suede shoes hasn’t worked, the next step is to use a suede cleaner

Suede cleaner works like a shampoo to remove any tough stains. After brushing your shoes down, sponge them with a slightly damp cloth before spraying your suede cleaner from a distance of at least 20cm. Then, use your suede brush to very gently rub the product into your shoes and wipe them down again with a cloth. When your shoes are dry, brush them in the direction of the grain in order to smooth out the nap.

Remember, whatever your method of cleaning, never heat your suede shoes, as this will damage the material. Always allow them to dry naturally and brush the suede down to keep them looking smooth.