How to clean suede shoes

Step 1 | Remove dust and dirt
Before cleaning suede, it’s important to brush off any loose dirt. Thankfully, this is easy: just use a soft brush or a special suede brush to gently clean the surface. Always brush in one direction to avoid damaging the suede.

Step 2 | Treat any stains
Got a mark on your suede? Act fast – it’ll help prevent permanent staining. For oil or grease stains, use a simple home remedy: talcum powder or cornflour. Sprinkle it on the spot, let it sit for a few hours, then brush it off carefully. For water stains, gently dab with a damp cloth, then dry with a clean, dry one.

Step 3 | Use a suede brush and eraser
A suede brush is great for general cleaning, but a suede eraser (yes, really!) is perfect for stubborn marks. Use the eraser by gently rubbing over the stain until it disappears, then brush away any residue. Keep your suede in top condition with the Wolky Suede + Nubuck Box – stains and scuffs don’t stand a chance!

Step 4 | Dealing with stubborn stains
If you’ve tried everything and the stain still won’t budge, consider professional steam cleaning. A good local cobbler can often work wonders and restore your shoes to near-new condition.

Step 5 | Protect with a spray
Let’s be honest: no one loves cleaning their shoes. But here’s the secret – if you spray them regularly, you won’t need to clean them as often! Protect your suede shoes and shield them against moisture and dirt. To use, spray evenly over the entire shoe and allow it to dry completely before wearing. Repeat regularly to keep that invisible barrier strong. Spray generously – clean less!

Read next: Smelly shoes.