Suede is napped leather — the soft, fuzzy side of the hide. It is significantly more vulnerable to water and stains than smooth leather and cannot be cleaned with water-based methods without risk of water staining. Toronto winters are particularly hard on suede because of road salt, which leaves white tidal marks.
Tools
- Suede brush (a stiff-bristle brush with brass or nylon bristles — dedicated suede brushes are available at shoe stores; a clean nail brush is an adequate substitute)
- Suede eraser (a rubber block sold at shoe stores — excellent for scuff marks and dried stains)
- White vinegar
- Suede protector spray (preventative — apply before first wear and seasonally)
Dry Cleaning (For Dust, Scuffs, and Dry Stains)
- Allow mud or wet stains to dry completely before attempting to clean — working wet suede causes permanent damage
- Use the suede brush to brush the entire surface in one direction with the nap to remove loose dirt
- For scuff marks and stubborn stains: use the suede eraser in short back-and-forth strokes to lift the mark — this works like an eraser on pencil marks
- After erasing: brush again to restore the nap to a uniform direction
Removing Salt Stains (Toronto Winter Essential)
- Allow the shoes to dry completely first
- Brush off any loose salt crystals with the suede brush
- Dip a soft cloth in undiluted white vinegar — wring it well so it's barely damp
- Dab the vinegar onto the salt stain and gently rub in a circular motion — the mild acidity neutralizes the alkaline salt
- Allow to dry away from direct heat
- Once dry, brush to restore the nap
Watermarks
- For general watermarks: lightly dampen the entire surface of the shoe evenly with a cloth — this prevents the tide mark from drying at a sharp line
- Stuff the shoes with newspaper and allow to dry away from direct heat
- Brush when completely dry
Protection
- Apply a suede or nubuck protector spray before first wear and after each cleaning — it creates a moisture barrier that significantly reduces salt and water damage
- Store suede shoes in a dust bag away from sunlight — UV exposure fades the colour