How To Restore Suede Shoes? It’s easy to love the soft, velvety feel of suede. It’s a classic fabric that elevates your look and makes you feel on trend.
How To Restore Suede Shoes
However, it can also be difficult to restore and clean. When dampness or dirt affects the material, it can look messy and out of shape.
Yet, there’s no need to toss out those favorite characters. With the proper approach, you can restore suede shoes back to their original state. In this guide, you’ll learn the best techniques, products, and tools for cleaning, restoring, and waterproofing your suede shoes.
What is Suede?
Suede is one of the oldest and most widely used materials for shoe making. The term “suede” (or “velours”) originates from the French term “gants de velours”, literally meaning “velvet gloves”. It’s a Soft, fuzzy, and velvety material that has been used since the 16th century.
Suede is a natural leather that has been twisted or crushed to form a napped or velvet-like surface structure. It’s made by sanding down the underside of the skin of an animal, typically cows, goats, or pigs. It’s softer than a regular leather and therefore more prone to scuffs and dirt.
Types of Suede Cleaners
Choosing the right type of cleaner is important when it comes to cleaning your suede shoes. There are two main types of cleaners: chemical and natural.
Chemical cleaners, like suede detergents, softeners, and foams are designed to remove dirt, grease, and stains from the surface of the shoe. They also bring out the nap and revive the natural color of the suede.
Natural cleaners, like white vinegar or bicarbonate of soda, can also be used to clean the shoes. These are best used to remove mild stains and to make your shoes smell nice.
Cleaning Your Suede Shoes
To clean your suede shoes, the first step is to brush away any dirt and debris. Use a suede brush – stiff bristled brush with metal-tipped plastic spines – in the direction of the nap of the suede. Be sure to remove any dirt particles, as they can attract moisture.
Once you’ve brushed away all the dirt, then you can begin to use a cleaner to remove any stains. If you’re using a chemical cleaner, mix the cleaning solution according to the instructions on the bottle and apply it to the shoe with a cloth. Gently rub the solution into the affected area and then leave the shoe to dry for several minutes.
If you’re using a natural cleaner, like white vinegar or bicarbonate of soda, mix one part of the cleaner with four parts of water. Then, apply the solution to the surface of the shoe using a damp cloth. Rub the area gently and allow the shoe to dry for several minutes.
Waterproofing Your Suede Shoes
Once you’ve cleaned and restored the suede, it’s important to waterproof the shoes to protect them from moisture, dirt, and wear.
One effective method for waterproofing suede shoes is to use a water repellent or waterproof spray. This will provide a protective barrier on the surface of the shoe and help to repel water, dirt, and mud. Simply spray the solution liberally onto the shoe and allow it to dry.
Another option is to use a wax-based waterproofing solution. This will create a protective, rubbery layer on the surface of your shoes and help to repel moisture and dirt. To apply the wax, use a soft cloth or brush and lightly apply the wax to the surface. Once the material is dry, buff it with a soft cloth to finish the process.
Storing & Protecting Your Suede Shoes
When storing your shoes, avoid placing them near any extreme temperatures or sources of light. Storing your shoes in a cool, dry place is always best.
In addition, it’s good practice to stuff the inside of the shoes with paper and place them inside a dust bag when not in use. This will help to absorb excess moisture and avoid any unpleasant odors.
Conclusion
Suede shoes are a staple in every wardrobe. While it can be difficult to manage and maintain, with the right approach, you can keep your shoes looking like new for years to come. When it comes to restoring and cleaning your suede, start by brushing away any dirt particles.
Then, use a suitable cleaner to remove any stains. Finally, protect and waterproof your shoes in order to preserve the material. By following these steps, you can ensure your suede shoes remain in pristine condition.
FAQs
How do you restore suede shoes?
The best way to restore suede shoes is to brush away any dirt or debris, use a suitable cleaner to remove any stains, and finally, protect and waterproof your shoes.
What is the best cleaner for suede shoes?
The best cleaner for suede shoes is a suede detergent, softener, or foam. These are designed specifically to remove dirt, grease, and stains from the surface of the shoe and bring out the natural color.
How do you waterproof suede shoes?
To waterproof suede shoes, you can use a water repellent or waterproof spray. Simply spray the solution onto the shoes and allow it to dry. You can also use a wax-based waterproofing solution and apply it with a soft cloth or brush.
Is it possible to waterproof suede shoes?
Yes, it’s possible to waterproof suede shoes. This can be done by using a water repellent or waterproof spray, or a wax-based waterproofing solution.
What materials are needed to clean suede shoes?
The materials you need to clean suede shoes are a stiff-bristled brush with metal-tipped plastic spines, a cleaner such as a suede detergent, softener, foam, or white vinegar, and a water repellent or waterproof spray.
How do you store suede shoes?
When storing your suede shoes, make sure to keep them away from any extreme temperatures or sources of light. Stuff the inside of the shoes with paper and place them inside a dust bag when not in use to absorb any excess moisture and avoid unpleasant odors.
Are chemical cleaners safe for suede?
Yes, chemical cleaners are safe for suede. However, it’s important to make sure that you follow the instructions on the bottle and test a small, inconspicuous area of the shoe before using.
