How to Clean and Condition Suede Leather Shoes and Boots
If you have suede leather shoes or boots, you’ll need to know how to clean and condition them. There are several ways to clean suede leather, and the first step is removing any dirt or debris. You can use a suede eraser or a leather conditioner. You can also clean suede with vinegar.
Using a suede eraser
If you want to clean your suede shoes, you can use a suede eraser. This tool is made of fine horsehair bristles that remove tough stains and residue. You can also use a vinegar-based cleaning solution to remove stains. This method is effective for a few hours, but it will not remove the stain completely. Alternatively, you can use a pre-formulated spray-on cleaner.
You can also use a suede eraser to remove dry stains from suede. This tool will gently rub away tough stains by gently applying pressure. It will also massage the nap back to its natural state.
Using a leather conditioner
Leather conditioner is a wonderful way to restore suede’s natural beauty and keep it soft and supple. Typically available in a spray bottle, leather conditioner saturates suede with a protective layer of oil without harming its nap. Apply leather conditioner in circular motions, making sure to cover the entire surface. After completing the treatment, let the suede air-dry. Ideally, it should dry overnight.
Suede is susceptible to fading, so it’s important to protect it from sunlight. While it may come with a protective coating, suede is porous and will absorb any stain or liquid that it comes into contact with.
Using a leather protector
Unlike other types of leather, suede requires periodic cleaning and conditioning. While the material can come with a protective coating, it is still porous and can absorb stains easily. Hence, it is recommended to protect suede leather by using a leather protectant.
You should use a leather cleaner or protectant that has been formulated especially for suede or nubuck leather. You can also seek the help of a local leather specialist to apply the product. Using a leather protector can help extend the life of suede leather products.
To use a leather protector on suede, you should first clean the surface thoroughly using a leather cleaner. The cleaner should have natural enzymes and a pH balancer. Moreover, the product must have tea tree oil as it acts as a mild conditioner on the surface of suede. The protection will protect suede leather from exposure to harmful elements such as rain or harsh sunlight.
Cleaning with vinegar
Cleaning suede leather with vinegar can be an effective way to restore the natural color of the leather. The color of suede can become faded over time because of the porous nature of the material. It can also be damaged if certain liquids seep into it. The best way to prevent this from happening is to use protective sealants on suede.
To clean suede leather, you can dilute white vinegar with water. Apply this solution to the stained area and let it dry. Do not overdo it, but make sure to scrub the wet area several times. When the area dries completely, use a suede brush to brush out the stain and restore its natural color.
Using rubbing alcohol
Using rubbing alcohol to clean and condition your suede leather may sound like a good idea, but it could be harmful to your suede. The alcohol can dry out the suede and cause watermarks and the nap to become wavy. It can also dull the suede’s color. To prevent these problems, use a small amount and test it first on a hidden area.
Rubbing alcohol can be used to clean stains, but be careful not to overdo it. You may end up stripping the dye and damaging the suede. If you find a spot where the rubbing alcohol has stained the leather, try applying it in circular motions to remove the stain. Then use a soft scrub brush to fluff up the fibers.
