Suede shoes can be tricky to clean and keep stain free — especially when you take unpredictable weather into consideration. Whether your Ugg boots need a pick-me-up or your suede sneakers require a deep cleanse, there are numerous ways to enhance the softness, look and quality of suede.
Suede is a type of leather available in different variations (like sheepskin suede and cowhide suede) — and since it's prone to staining, many experts recommend protecting the fabric before exposing it. However, there are also post-stain cleansing methods available, which we'll get into.
Still, certain stains (like ink) are hard to remove from suede. Take it from my experience: I once had to toss a luxurious suede bag after it was destroyed by black ink. According to The Cobblers I visited in Miami, my item was unable to be restored.
Despite the sad news, I gained experience and have taken care of suede goods ever since. From storing the items properly to preventative care, there are things you can do to save on expensive repairs or having to toss a good suede item — even shoes.
We tapped experts to learn how to protect suede footwear, and they recommended which sprays will help keep them clean and protected for the long run.
How to clean suede shoes
"To clean suede, use a soft brush, such as a toothbrush or microfiber cloth," says the senior product line manager at Stio, Phil Marlatt.
He continues, "Avoid using a washing machine or dryer. Suede-specific cleaning solutions also work great and are designed to lift stains without damaging the material." However, it is important to test any cleaner in hidden areas to ensure it won’t discolor the shoes.
According to the account manager at Moneysworth & Best, Lionel Sims, using a brush with medium-strength bristles or a suede eraser is better to avoid suede scuffs and marks. “Use specially-formulated suede cleaner that will penetrate deep into the fabric for the best removal of dirt,” says Sims.
"Clean as needed maybe every two to four weeks for best results and always protect them after cleaning, once dried," adds Sims.
Furthermore, "if suede gets wet, wipe the liquid immediately and allow it to dry naturally," says the CEO and founder of Patricia Nashs’ Designs, Patricia Nash.
Best suede care kits and tools, according to experts and editors
I [Espinal] like this spray for its gentle foam and ease of use. While it requires a drying period, this formula allows you to easily remove dirt. I have used these on suede shoes and the solution works pretty well. All you need is to spray the formula on the suede shoes and scrub gently with a cloth.
This spray is another great formula to remove filthy spots on suede, and it's easy to apply on leather jackets, shoes or bags. It even comes with a mini brush cap to scrub the dirty area. I [Espinal] like this one for its non-sticky formula and easy spray.
It's all in the bristles, and this set comes with three horse-hair brushes to keep your suede and leather free from debris. The small brushes can help you get through hard-to-reach areas and stubborn stains.
"A light brush can effectively clean and remove dirt and buildup on suede. If it’s a more rigorous cleaning job, we’d recommend using a water-based suede cleaner," says head of product at Hari Mari, Jeremey Stewart.
According to Lourdes Morochos, a shoe expert at Eddie’s Shoe Repair, this product is effective at removing unnecessary stains. "If the suede shoes are dirty, try to spray the entire shoe with Foam Tex and brush thoroughly, so you can eliminate the grime," adds Morochos. Some shoppers have mentioned that it even restores some darkened areas.
"We find that this product works better if you spray two to three times, depending on how often you wear your suede shoes," says Morochos. She recommends brushing the outside of the shoe and letting it dry for about 20 minutes for the best results. This will help protect your suede material when you walk outside in the rain.
I [Espinal] had effortlessly cleaned my suede boots with this foamy formula. While the product can make your shoes damp at first sight, the formula works well in removing stains and spots. All you need is a brush to scrub the treated area, and then let the solution dry. I've also tried this on my Dearfoams and has had effective results.
Associate editor Kamari Stewart says, "I bought this kit in store at Nordstrom about a month or so ago. I spilled cranberry juice on my Ugg Tasman slippers about two years ago and never cleaned them."
Instead of getting rid of her Ugg slippers, Stewart decided to give them an instant recovery. "So I finally invested in the kit and was skeptical about how well it would work because it’s been so long but it worked so well. There is a bit of a waiting period (24 hours of dry time after spraying the stain remover and brushing it/24 hours of dry time after applying the suede protectant) but it’s so worth it. They look like new and I’m so glad I bought the kit."
Other suede cleaners to shop
If you’re looking for a product that cleans suede, leather and other materials, this one is trusted by most shoppers. The formula is meant to remove stubborn stains and grime, especially on white shoes. Whether you need a gentle scrub or something to remove stains instantly, opt for this bottle. Also, shoppers say it can remove older stains with a bit of elbow grease.
How to protect suede fabric before a stain
According to Nash, suede is usually treated before use. However, Sims suggests using a gentle protector for delicate suede goods.
“Use [a] specially formulated suede protector that will penetrate deep into the fabric for best protection. First, test in hidden areas to ensure it will not discolor shoes or boots and spray as needed, maybe every two to four weeks for best protection if you wear the shoes or boots often.”
“Since suede naturally absorbs water, applying a waterproof or water-resistant spray will help repel moisture. Some suede products are treated with non-PFAS DWR (Durable Water Repellent), but this treatment can wear off over time, so reapplication is recommended,” shares Marlatt.
Frequently asked questions
While the water won't instantly destroy the look of your suede shoes, it's important that you let them dry at room temperature. "Also remove salt immediately while wet and brush nap of suede regularly with suede brush to keep the best look," says Sims.
Also, there could be some color fading and if "suede becomes wet, its small hairs can become brittle and stiff," adds Marlatt.
"Ink is hard to deal with once it has dried. If the spill is big and you like the bag. I’d recommend changing the color with a suede renew product," shares Sims.
Usually the ink gets absorbed deep into the natural pores of the leather, which makes it hard to remove.
"Suede footwear isn’t usually as structured and stiff as normal leather shoes and boots. It’s softer and more malleable, which makes them great for slipping on the first time," says Stewart.
While you can store them like other others, some require seasonal storage like slippers. "We recommend our customers use shoe and boot trees to preserve the shape and longevity of the slipper," says Stewart.
How we chose
Shop TODAY selected suede care kits and suede-specific cleaning solutions based on experts' advice and editors' recommendations. We also talked to experts about how to care for suede as a preventative measure before exposing the shoes to the elements.
Meet the experts
At Shop TODAY, our reporters interview a range of qualified sources and experts to capture a wide scope of perspectives on a given topic. We also make sure that all expert guidance and recommendations are made independently and with no undisclosed financial conflicts of interest.
- Patricia Nash is the CEO and founder of Patricia Nashs' Designs, a brand focused on high-end Italian luxury goods.
- Lionel Sims is the account manager at Moneysworth & Best, a company that distributes and markets over 750 shoe and foot care products.
- Phil Marlatt is the senior product line manager at Stio
- Lourdes Morochos is a shoe expert who works at Eddie's Shoe Repair at Rockefeller Center in New York City.
- Jeremy Stewart is the head of product at Hari Mari, a footwear company offering leather sandals and slippers.
