How to Clean Suede Sneakers
From prevention to damage control, follow this guide for advice on how to clean your suede shoes and sneakers.
By: Harry Rosen StaffDate: 2025-03-25
From statement jackets to small accessories, suede delivers a luxurious and elevated edge to every outfit, and suede shoes are among the most common and stylish ways to wear it.
Whether they’re more formal (like leather-soled loafers) or more casual (like open-toe sandals), suede shoes come in a variety of different styles, including sneakers. However, while suede provides a sophisticated, upscale appearance, it's also susceptible to damage, especially from water.
Don’t fret, however, there’s no need to baby your suede too much – learning how to clean suede shoes is as easy as following a few simple steps and taking some necessary precautions.
Clean Before They’re Dirty
The first thing you should do to any new pair of suede shoes is to apply a layer of waterproofing protective spray over the suede to prevent any long-lasting damage before it occurs.
Whether it’s an unexpected rainstorm, clumsy coffee spill, or muddy mishap, even the most mundane moments can spell danger for suede shoes, and you won’t always be able to stop an accident from happening.
Brush Off Dirt
Any visible build-up of dirt or debris should be gently removed before cleaning with a suede brush or clean, soft-bristled brush. Finish by brushing the nappy surface of the suede in one direction before moving onto the next step.
Use a Suede Eraser
For persistent stains or marks, a suede eraser can be used to carefully rub out and remove them. Suede erasers use gentle abrasion and friction to lift dirt and scuffs from the surface of suede, restoring the material's original texture and appearance without requiring water or chemical treatments.
Finish by once again by using a suede brush to restore the nap and brush it in a harmonious direction.
Spot Clean
Deep-set stains sometimes require soft blotting with a lightly dampened cloth to be removed, though be careful not to further damage the suede by soaking it too much.
For particularly stubborn stains that require something extra, a mixture of mild detergent or dish soap with warm water can be more effective.
Draw oil and grease stains out of your suede shoes by sprinkling some cornstarch or baby powder onto the area and letting it absorb the oils for a few hours before being brushed off with your suede brush.
If you used any liquid to clean your suede shoes, allow them to dry by placing cedar shoe trees inside them to retain their shape and absorb moisture. Once dry, apply a finishing coat of your waterproofing suede spray to shield them from future stains.
Be sure to regularly brush your suede shoes to keep the material in pristine condition. Brush them before and after each wear and if possible, always stow away in cedar shoe trees when not in use.
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