How to Keep Suede Sneakers Clean: A Comprehensive Guide
Suede is a soft, delicate and textured leather material widely used in fashion shoe design, especially sneakers. However, suede material is relatively delicate, easy to absorb dust, oil and water stains, and can easily damage the appearance of the upper once improperly cleaned. Therefore, keeping suede sneakers clean is not only about aesthetics, but also about the love and maintenance awareness of shoes. This article will detail how to properly clean and maintain suede sneakers to help you extend their lifespan while maintaining their style and texture.
1. Understand the characteristics of suede material
Before you start cleaning, it’s crucial to understand the basic properties of suede. Suede is made from the inner layer of leather, which has a fine velvety surface that is soft to the touch and breathable, but also more easily absorbs stains and moisture. Unlike glossy leather, once suede is stained with water or oil, it is difficult to completely remove it, so daily maintenance should focus on prevention and supplemented by cleaning.
It should be noted that although suede and nubuck are similar in appearance, the material is slightly different. Nubuck leather is a sanded outer layer of leather that is more wear-resistant than suede and has a slightly different cleaning method. Therefore, the upper material should be confirmed before cleaning to choose the appropriate cleaning tool and method.
2. Daily cleaning tools and supplies
To effectively clean suede sneakers, here are some essential cleaning tools and supplies:
Suede brushes: divided into soft bristle brushes and rubber brushes, used to remove surface dust and restore suede texture. Suede eraser: Used to erase stubborn stains or water stains. Suede Cleaning Spray/Foam: A cleaner designed for suede that cleans deeply without damaging the suede. White vinegar or alcohol (diluted): Suitable for removing oil stains or mildew spots. Waterproof spray: Used to spray after cleaning to enhance the waterproof and anti-stain properties of suede. Soft cloth or sponge: Used to wipe and apply detergent.These tools can be purchased at professional shoe care stores or online. It is recommended to read the product description before purchasing to ensure that it is suitable for suede material.
3. Daily cleaning steps
1. Daily dusting and brushingAfter each time you wear suede sneakers, it is recommended to use a special soft brush for suede to gently brush off surface dust. When brushing, brush lightly in the direction of the fluff to avoid suede lodging or pilling caused by reverse brushing. For more stubborn dust, you can use a rubber brush to gently rub it.
2. Local stain treatmentIf there are local stains on the upper, such as mud spots, water stains or oil stains, they should be dealt with promptly. The specific methods are as follows:
Water or mud stains: After it has dried naturally, gently brush it with a suede brush to remove the dried stains. If there are still traces, you can use a suede eraser to gently wipe them. Oil stains: You can sprinkle cornstarch or talcum powder to absorb the oil, let it sit for a few hours, pat off the powder, and then clean it with a suede brush. If the oil stain is deep, you can gently wipe it with diluted alcohol or white vinegar. Ink or food stains: You can use a special cleaning spray or foam for suede, spray it on the stain, gently wipe it with a soft cloth, and then comb the suede with a brush. 3. Deep cleaningIf the suede sneakers are dirty as a whole, it is recommended to do a deep cleaning:
Use a suede brush to remove all surface dust. Spray an appropriate amount of chamois cleaning foam and wipe with a soft cloth or sponge in gentle circular motions. After the detergent lathers, wipe it clean with a clean soft cloth. Use a suede brush again to comb the suede to restore its soft texture. After cleaning, place it in a ventilated and cool place to dry naturally, away from direct sunlight or hot air to dry.4. Waterproof and anti-fouling treatment
After cleaning, it is recommended to spray it with a special waterproof spray for suede to enhance its stain and water resistance properties. Test in an inconspicuous area before spraying to ensure it does not cause discoloration or damage. When spraying, keep the nozzle about 15-20 cm away from the upper, spray evenly, and spray another layer after drying for better results.
The role of waterproof spray is to create a protective film that prevents water and stains from penetrating the suede fibers, thereby extending the life of the shoes.
5. Daily maintenance suggestions
In addition to cleaning, proper daily maintenance is equally important:
Avoid wearing in the rain: Although it is waterproof, suede is still not resistant to a lot of moisture, and wearing it in the rain can easily cause permanent water damage. Brush regularly: Even if there are no visible stains, brush with a suede brush once a week to keep the suede neat. Use shoe braces: Placing shoe braces can maintain the shape of the shoe and prevent the suede from deforming or wrinkling due to extrusion. Avoid contact with chemicals: such as perfume, dish soap, etc., which may corrode the surface of the suede. Rotate wear: Giving shoes enough time to “breathe” helps maintain the softness and breathability of the suede.