Easy Steps to Clean Suede Shoes

Shoes do so much more than just protect our feet from the elements. They give us stature, confidence, and, depending on their design, spark joy. Still, they are not immune to time, wear and tear, and the perils that come with flash-flood warnings. Some are made to withstand rough conditions, while others are simply pieces of eye candy. Suede shoes, more often than not, fall into the latter category.

Made of leather that is rubbed to form a nap finish, suede’s smooth texture is something to be admired—and has been for generations. To wit: Of all the kicks Elvis Presley could have sang about, he focused on those of the blue suede variety. However, even the King of Rock and Roll had to attest to the fact that the material has its downsides. Suede not only sheds (a problem known as crocking), but it is also prone to stains.

This is why we treat our suede kicks and refresh them regularly with an assortment of tools that we have at the ready. Because when it comes to shoes with this velvety surface, they often need a little TLC. Ahead are four easy steps to follow.