Suede boots may be a staple in many wardrobes, but most people don’t know how to take care of them. This soft leather requires special attention to keep its velvety texture. If your favorite pair of suede shoes are dirty or stained, try these tips to clean them up before deciding to throw them away.

  1. Start by brushing off the dirt with a suede-cleaning brush. This material consists of soft grain and will require a specific brush. It may seem silly to invest in a brush with one sole purpose, but it will prove to be a worthy investment. If you can’t see yourself purchasing one, then you can use a toothbrush. Just make sure to go with the grain.
  2. Make sure the shoe’s shape is being kept before you really go in. You can stuff your shoes with newspaper or old socks.
  3. Next, you can try to put some white vinegar on the stain. Apply it on a rag or corner of a towel first, so you don’t accidentally soak the shoe. Let it dry and then brush that area. Scrubbing out the stain may require a bit of force.
  4. Have a tougher stain? Try a suede eraser. These often come in cleaning kits with a brush. If you don’t have one, then you can also use a regular eraser.
  5. When you get a new pair of suede shoes, make sure to waterproof them using a spray. This may help prevent stains; however, some of these may actually stain themselves! So we recommend testing it on a small spot before spraying the whole shoe.