Cleaning suede sneakers is essential for keeping them looking neat and stylish. Suede is a luxurious and delicate material that can easily stain and damage. In this guide, we explain step by step how to clean suede sneakers easily and effectively without damaging the material.
Why is cleaning suede sneakers important?
Suede sneakers have a unique, soft texture, but they're also susceptible to dirt and water. Regularly cleaning suede sneakers helps prevent stains and wear, keeping your shoes looking great for longer. Proper cleaning also prevents dirt from penetrating deep into the material, extending the life of your sneakers.
If you don't maintain suede sneakers properly, they can quickly start to look worn. By regularly cleaning suede sneakers, you'll keep them looking fresh and new for longer. This is especially important if you're a sneaker enthusiast and want to keep your collection in top condition.
What do you need?
To clean suede sneakers, you need the following materials:
- Sneaker Cleaner – specially developed for suede
- Suede brush – removes dust and dirt without damaging the material
- Suede gum – helps with stubborn stains
- Microfiber cloth – to remove excess moisture and cleaning solution
- Protect Spray – protects suede against water and dirt
- A bowl of lukewarm water – to slightly dampen your cloth
- Shoe trees – to maintain the shape of the sneakers while drying
- Soft sponge – for extra gentle cleaning of sensitive parts of the sneaker
Step 1: Preparation
Remove the laces from your sneakers and stuff them with newspaper or use shoe trees. This will help maintain the sneakers' shape while cleaning and drying. Use a suede brush to gently remove dry dirt and dust. Always brush in the same direction to avoid damaging the suede fibers.
Proper preparation is crucial when cleaning suede sneakers, as suede is a delicate material that easily damages. If your sneakers are very dusty, you can lightly tap them to remove loose dirt before using the brush.
Step 2: Treat surface dirt
Use the suede brush to gently clean the surface. For light stains, you can use a dry microfiber cloth to gently rub the suede. Be careful not to press too hard to avoid damaging the material.
A handy trick is to test the brush on a small, less visible part of the shoe before treating the entire surface. This prevents any damage if the brush is too hard.
Step 3: Removing stubborn stains
For stubborn stains, you can use a suede eraser. Gently rub the eraser over the stain until it disappears. If the stain remains, use a small amount of Sneaker Essentials Suede Cleaner on a clean cloth and gently blot the stain.
Tip: Never use too much water when cleaning suede, as this can damage the material and cause stains.
For oil stains, talcum powder or cornstarch can help. Sprinkle some powder over the stain and let it sit for a few hours. Then you can gently brush it out with a suede brush.
Step 4: Refresh and Reshape
If your sneakers look dull after cleaning, lightly brush them with the suede brush to lift the fibers. Then let the sneakers air dry completely, preferably in a well-ventilated area, but away from direct sunlight and heat sources such as radiators.
Important: Never put suede sneakers in the washing machine or dryer. This can cause irreparable damage.
While drying, you can place the shoes on a towel to absorb excess moisture. This prevents moisture from seeping into the soles.
Step 5: Protect against dirt and water
Once your sneakers are clean and dry, it's important to protect them from future stains and moisture. Use one of our Protect Sprays to apply a protective layer to the suede. Spray the spray from about 20 cm away and let the sneakers dry completely before wearing them.
Regular reapplication helps maintain protection. Do this about once a month or after intensive wear in rainy conditions.
Additional tips for cleaning suede sneakers
- Avoid water as much as possible – suede and water do not go well together.
- Use a hairdryer on a low setting – if your sneakers accidentally get wet, dry them gently.
- Store your sneakers in a dry place – damp environments can damage suede.
Why choose Sneaker Essentials products?
Cleaning suede sneakers is much easier with the right products. At Sneaker Essentials, we offer high-quality cleaning and maintenance products specifically designed for suede. Our products help remove dirt without damaging the material and provide long-lasting protection. Browse our range and discover how to perfectly care for your suede sneakers.
Conclusion
Cleaning suede sneakers requires a careful approach, but with the right techniques and products, your sneakers will stay in top condition. Regular maintenance will extend the life of your sneakers and keep them looking fresh and stylish.
By following this guide, you can effortlessly clean your suede sneakers and protect them from dirt and moisture. Make suede cleaning a regular part of your sneaker care routine and enjoy your favorite shoes for longer!
