How to Clean Suede Shoes: A Step-by-Step Guide

From trainers and ankle boots to over-the-knee and desert boot iterations, suede shoes are a staple of everyone’s wardrobe. Perfect for autumn/winter outfits, the suede shoe is a well-worn classic.

But what do you do when you’ve worn your suede footwear a little bit too much? Cleaning suede shoes can be difficult, and doing it wrong could ruin your favourite pair of boots or shoes. Luckily, we’re here to help with our step-by-step guide on how to clean suede shoes, whatever colour they are.

How to clean suede shoes

You shouldn’t be throwing your beloved suede shoes or suede boots in the washing machine, so hand washing is the way to go.

Things you will need:

Suede eraser (sometimes these come attached to the bristle brush)
Bristle brush or specific suede brush
Sponge
Suede cleaner
Tissue paper
Suede protector spray

Step 1 – Laces

Remove the laces.
Machine wash laces in a delicate bag.

Step 2 – Remove excess surface dirt

Use the bristle brush to remove loose dirt.
Repeat on the other shoe.

Step 3 – Treat scuffs and stains

Rub suede eraser on deep scuffs or stubborn marks and tough stains.
Repeat on the other shoe.

Step 4 – Clean the suede

Shake the suede cleaner well.
Apply the suede cleaner, keeping the can 15-20cm away from the shoe.
Scrub the suede cleaner gently into the shoe using the sponge.
Wipe away any excess foam.
Repeat on the other shoe.

Step 5 – Stuff to dry

Stuff the shoes with tissue paper (this helps them to keep their shape).
Leave shoes to dry.

Step 6 – Brush the suede

Brush gently with the bristle brush (brushing restores the softness).
Repeat on the other side.

Step 7 – Protect the suede

Shake the suede protector spray well.
Apply the suede protector spray, keeping the can 15-20cm away from the shoe.
Repeat on the other shoe.
Wait until fully dry.
Re-lace and enjoy your clean suede shoe, now protected from future stains!

Discover how to clean suede shoes, Converse, UGGs, & more

If you’re feeling inspired to clean up your act – we mean with shoes – then you can shop the rest of our shoe care products here.

Cleaning suede shoes, trainers, and boots couldn’t be easier with our shoe care range. Some of our favourites include suede cleaner from Dr. Martens, Crep Protect Suede Reviver – perfect for restoring your suede sneakers to their original glory – and Care Kits from UGG and BIRKENSTOCK, ideal for protecting and reviving your suede boots, clogs, or sandals!

Don’t forget, if you’re looking for more shoe care guides, we’ve already shown you how to clean Converse, freshen up your UGG boots, and bring your Hunter wellies back to life. You could say we’re becoming seasoned pros in the whole shoe-cleaning business!