How to Clean Suede Shoes Without Getting the Blues

If you’re the proud owner of suede shoes, then you understand why Elvis sang “You can do anything, but stay off my blue suede shoes!” 🙂

In all seriousness, suede isn’t really as hard to protect and maintain as people think. Here’s what you need to know before you buy your next pair of suede shoes:

• Know what kind of suede you’re getting, because the higher the grade, the easier the suede is to maintain.
• Always protect your suede shoes with the right type of product. The right type of product will help you keep your suede looking good for a long time. Generally that will be a spray-on product. Use a waterproofer to protect the suede from rain, snow and other wet stains.
• Use the right kind of brush for your suede shoes. A stiff brush is not it! Be sure to purchase a brush specifically meant for suede.

So when the inevitable sudden downpour occurs, or something is spilled on your favorite pair of suede shoes, what do you do then? Here’s how to clean your suede shoes without getting the blues:

1. The best thing to clean stains from suede shoes is actually an eraser–a suede eraser. You use it just as you would use a pencil eraser. Rub it over the stains to make them disappear.
2. For general cleaning and to restore the nap on your favorite suede shoes, use a brush meant for suede and/or nubuck. It’s not a bad idea to brush your suede shoes after every wear. It will help keep them looking good and extend the life of the suede.
3. If the suede has any kind of hard-to-remove grease stain, try cornstarch! Sprinkle cornstarch liberally over the stain, and then leave it to sit and work some magic for awhile. After at least 30-60 minutes, use the suede brush to remove the cornstarch and revive the suede.