1. Blog Home
  2. Expert Advice
How to Clean Suede Shoes & Boots

Expert Advice

How to Clean Suede Shoes & Boots

Jan 24, 2024

At Hibbett | City Gear, we are Team “All Things Suede,” whether it’s boots, sneakers, clogs or slippers. But unlike their smooth leather counterparts, suede requires a delicate touch and the right tools to maintain its luxe texture. So when those UGG Tasman slippers need a good cleaning, or your Jordan suede uppers need to look like they’re fresh out of the box, you can refer to our comprehensive cleaning guide to ensure good results.

Supplies to Clean Suede Shoes & Boots

Supplies to Clean Suede Shoes & Boots

Wondering how to clean suede shoes without suede cleaner You probably have most or all of these household products in your cabinets. Let’s start with the basics of what you’ll need to keep any suede shoe in peak condition: 

  • Microfiber cloth 
  • Vinegar (or foam cleanser) 
  • Magic Eraser, suede eraser or pencil eraser
  • Baking soda or cornstarch 
  • Suede brush or soft-bristled toothbrush

The Basics of How to Clean Suede Shoes

Step 1: Brush Away Dirt 

Use a soft-bristled suede brush to remove surface dirt from suede shoes. Brush in the direction of the nap to avoid matting.

Step 2: Get Rid of Surface Marks 

This is where either a suede eraser, Magic Eraser or even a pencil eraser (really!) can help restore your suede shoes to like-new status. Use the eraser to gently remove any marks on the suede. Just be sure you don’t rub too hard to avoid damaging the surface.

Step 3: Tackle Stains

For water stains or light marks, dip a clean cloth in white vinegar and gently dab the affected area. Let it dry naturally, then brush the suede. Sprinkle baking soda or cornstarch on the shoes or boots to absorb oil or dirt that’s not coming out, and let them sit for 15 to 20 minutes. Brush with a suede brush. Try a foam cleanser for heavier or more stubborn stains. Test any cleaner on an inconspicuous area first.

Step 4: Give Shoes a Good Wipe-Down 

Dip a clean microfiber cloth in lukewarm water, and wring it out until almost dry. Wipe the shoes gently, avoiding saturation.

Step 5: Let Air Dry 

Stuff the shoes with paper towels, newspapers, shoe trees or clean, dry cloths to maintain their shape, and let them air dry completely away from direct heat.

How to Clean Suede Tennis Shoes

How to Clean Suede Tennis Shoes

Whether you’re trying to clean suede New Balance lifestyle shoes or a pair of Jordan 4 Retro suede sneaks, you’ll want to follow the above instructions to achieve a deep clean, as well as the following tips: 

  • Also, use an eraser to restore your shoe’s midsoles and outsoles to their former glory.
  • Be sure to remove any laces and insoles when you’re giving your sneakers an all-over clean; this allows you to get in the grooves of the shoe. 
  • Apply a suede protector spray after cleaning to help repel water and stains.
  • Make sure sneakers are completely dry before storing them. 
  • If you’re trying to clean white suede shoes, use a white eraser to avoid discoloration. For stubborn stains on your white shoes, try a paste of baking soda and water. Apply it to the stain, let it dry, then brush it off. 

When cleaning black suede shoes, try a black or dark-colored eraser to remove scuffs and marks.

Cleaning Suede Boots & Slippers

Cleaning Suede Boots & Slippers

Suede boots tend to get a bit more wear in the winter, making this warm and cozy footwear more susceptible to water stains and salt. Water stains on boots can be treated using the white vinegar and soft cloth method above, or you can simply wet a cloth with lukewarm water to gently blot the water stain out (counterintuitive, we know!).


If you have UGG boots or another brand of suede boot, the company may recommend their own boot cleaner (or a tiny bit of mild detergent) that you can use to gently scrub the surface of the boot. As with any boot, stuff them with newspaper or a clean, dry towel to help them retain their shape as they dry. Once dry, brush the suede in one direction in order to keep the texture looking new.

Related Categories

Shop the Story

You Might Also Like to Read

Recently Viewed

View All Articles