Hey buddy,
Suede leather shoes are stylish, premium-looking, and super comfy. But they also get dirty real quick, right? Over the past 14 years working in footwear, I’ve cleaned more suede shoes than I can count—both for customers and for myself. And trust me, with the right care, suede can stay looking fresh for years.
So today, I’m sharing my personal, tried-and-tested methods for cleaning suede leather shoes. Simple tips that work—straight from a guy who lives and breathes shoes every day.
Step-by-Step: How I Clean Suede Leather Shoes
1. Start with a Dry Brush
The first thing I always do is brush off surface dirt and dust.
Use a suede brush if you have one, or a soft toothbrush works fine too.
Always brush in one direction to lift the nap (the fuzzy surface of the suede).
2. Use a Pencil Eraser for Light Marks
This is one of my favorite hacks, especially when someone doesn’t have a suede eraser.
Just grab a clean pencil eraser (white ones work best) and gently rub it on the stain or scuff mark.
Works surprisingly well for light dirt and small spots!
✅ From my store experience: Customers are always surprised how good this simple trick works.
3. Tackle Stains with Vinegar or Rubbing Alcohol
For deeper stains, I use either white vinegar or rubbing alcohol:
- Pour a small amount onto a clean cloth
- Gently dab the stained area—don’t soak it
- Then use a dry part of the cloth to blot it out
Let it dry fully before brushing again.
4. Let It Air Dry Naturally
Never use direct heat like a hairdryer or put them under the sun.
Let the shoes air dry at room temperature. It protects the suede texture
5. Use a Suede Eraser or Cleaning Block
If the pencil eraser doesn’t fully work or for rough scuffs, a suede eraser (also called suede block) does wonders.
Just rub it gently over the affected area. It lifts out tough dirt and smooths out the nap.
6. Apply a Suede Protector Spray
This is something I always recommend in-store. After cleaning, spray a suede protector to keep your shoes safe from water, stains, and dust in the future.
It’s like giving your shoes a shield. 😎
Extra Tips from a Shoe Guy
- Don’t wear suede shoes on rainy or muddy days
- If they get wet, blot with a dry cloth immediately
- Brush them regularly even if they’re not dirty—keeps the nap fresh
- Store them in a cool, dry place (not plastic bags)
Final Thoughts from Us
Suede shoes may seem delicate, but with a little care, they stay classy and cool for years. I’ve seen hundreds of customers turn ruined-looking suede shoes back to life with just some brushing and patience.
Cleaning suede isn’t hard—it just needs the right method and a little love. Try these steps, and your suede pair will thank you.