Suede sneakers add that extra touch that elevates your style. Elegant and sophisticated, they bring a unique charm to any outfit. However, this delicate material requires special care. Dust, rain, and stains can quickly dull your sneakers if not maintained properly. Here are our best tips to extend their life and keep them looking new.
Protect Before Wearing
Before you even step out in your new suede sneakers, the first step is to waterproof them. Use a suede-specific protective spray that creates a barrier against water and stains. Spray it evenly from about 20 cm away, and let it dry for 24 hours. This step helps prevent many potential issues. Remember to reapply the spray regularly, especially after cleaning or exposure to prolonged moisture.
Brush Regularly to Keep the Material Clean
Suede easily attracts dust. To keep your sneakers from getting dirty, make it a habit to brush them after each wear. A crepe brush or a special suede brush is ideal for removing impurities without damaging the surface. Always brush in the same direction to preserve the suede’s soft, uniform texture. For small stains, use a suede eraser to gently make them disappear.
Act Quickly in Case of Stains
Even with all precautions, stains may still occur. Don’t worry—just know the right steps. For mud stains, let them dry completely before brushing gently with a suede brush. For grease stains, sprinkle the affected area with talcum powder or cornstarch. Let it sit for a few hours to absorb the grease, then brush gently. If water leaves a stain, you can restore it by lightly dampening the entire shoe with a damp cloth, then letting it air dry.
Avoid Common Mistakes
To preserve your suede sneakers, avoid a few common mistakes. Never dry them near a direct heat source like a radiator or with a hair dryer, as this could stiffen and crack the suede. Use only products specifically designed for suede, as leather or other material cleaners may damage your sneakers. And above all, never wash them in a machine, as this could cause irreversible damage.
Store Sneakers Properly
When you’re not wearing your sneakers, take care to store them properly. Ideally, use shoe trees to help them keep their shape. Avoid stacking them under other shoes to protect the material. To keep them in perfect condition, consider putting them back in their original box between wears.
Leave It to the Professionals
If, despite all your efforts, your suede sneakers show signs of wear or stubborn stains, it’s time to take them to a professional. A specialized cobbler can restore them and give them a fresh look without any risk.
With a bit of care and attention, maintaining suede sneakers becomes easy. Waterproof them before wearing them, brush them regularly, and act quickly when stains appear to keep them looking their best for as long as possible. Your sneakers will thank you!
