Suede shoes, such as the Birkenstocks and ankle boots, give any wardrobe class and comfort. But keeping these things in a pristine condition can be a difficult task, particularly after dirtying, mud or stain. Cleaning suede requires diligence to keep these an easy classic in your bag collection.

Fortunately, you don’t need special products in order to restore your suede shoes to their former glory. Many basic household items can handle common difficulties. Follow this guide encompassing easy steps to revive that old beloved suede footwear perfectly.

Essential Items You'll Need

• Suede brush or nail brush
• White vinegar
• Baking soda
• Flannel or face cloth
• Rubber eraser

1. Begin with the suede brush to eliminate any loose dirt and debris from the shoe's surface

Start this process when any dirt on your shoes is dry. If you are trying to lay dry a wet stain, you are pushing particles further into the stain, which will make it harder to remove later.

Brush it away with gentle strokes in one direction. This one is important: it’s important to brush in line with the suede’s natural grain. To treat tougher stains, like scuffs, apply more pressure and use a back and forth quicker motion. It lets flattened suede fibers be lifted, improving the clearing’s effectiveness.

If you don’t have a suede brush, your clean nail brush or toothbrush would be just fine as a replacement. Maintaining clean shoes will make your shoes look good as well as keep them lasting longer.

2. Use the Eraser to Remove Remaining Stains

If you have a suede specific eraser, that’ll work well, but if you have a clean, stain free eraser, that’ll do the trick.

Back and forth, but with enough pressure applied to the stained area. After some time if the marks still remain, then do not use too much force. In case any of your shoes are suede matter ensure to protect it.

3. Using White Vinegar or Rubbing Alcohol for Stubborn Stains

Using white vinegar and rubbing alcohol can also work when a stain remains on suede shoes. And while it’s disconcerting applying liquids, their acidic nature works well to loosen and neutralize stubborn stains.

So to begin with, grab a clean piece of flannel or washcloth, and dip your corner in a small bowl of either vinegar or rubbing alcohol. Don't get it too wet; don't soak the cloth. Turn the corner of it damp (don’t press it down), then dab the damp corner against the stained area on your shoe. Massaging in the liquid to the suede with a light pressing motion. Keep adding the liquid if the stain does not come out, but if it still won't come out, up the pressure. The trick is to maintain a nice steady back and forth motion.

Note that applying these liquids will temporarily darken the suede. But the liquid will evaporate and it will recover its original color. That means you might have to go through this process a few times, letting the suede dry each time.

If you want the mark to effectively be gone, re dip your cloth into the vinegar or rubbing alcohol as needed. Soaking the suede is not recommended because too much liquid can cause damage, so do exercise patience. Over time, the liquids will dissipate the smell, so you shouldn’t be wary if they leave any odours behind.

4. For Oil or Grease Stains, Utilize Baking Soda

If you’re dealing with an oil or grease stain on your suede footwear, baking soda will come to your rescue. Start with a patch test. Choose a small spot on the back of your shoes, put some of the baking soda there, and determine how your suede reacts to it.

Start by blotting any extra oil or grease away with a clean cloth. Then, lay baking soda all over it and make sure it’s all covered. Let it sit for several hours or better yet overnight to absorb the stain.

Once the baking soda awaits, brush it gently with a suede brush or a nail brush. Check the results carefully. If the stain does not go away, then repeat the process step until the desired look of clean is achieved. So following these steps can help you to restore your suede items and to extend their life while still keeping that appearance.

5. Apply a Suede Protector to Complete the Process

Once your suede shoes are pristine, you have to use a suede protector. It will prevent future stains and keep them looking new.

Always keep in mind that not every protector will be the same and some can even change the color of your suede. When choosing the product, confirm your need with customer ratings and reviews. If you are trying a new protector, there is always a patch test, testing it with your shoes to ensure your shoes are compatible with the protector.