The days are finally getting cooler meaning its time to swap your summer sandals for trusty boots. Whether you prefer ankle boots, knee-high styles or a daring thigh-high option, this footwear can be worn almost all year round. For a while, I avoided suede styles because of how temperamental the UK weather can be, but once I found out how easy it was to care for suede boots, I’m now a suede boot convert. The texture adds contrast to classic looks, and with so many beautiful suede boots on the market, knowing how to care for your suede boots will open you up to so many great styles.
Cleaning suede can be quite the ordeal – if you do it wrong you could ruin your beloved boots and shoes. But if you do it correctly, you ensure that your suede beauties reach their maximum lifespan and remain in pristine condition wear after wear. And I’ve got all the tips you need to ensure your suede boots last. If you can remember ahead of time: All new pairs of suede shoes and boots should be sprayed with a suede protector to extend their pristine condition in the first place. Also (we know this is hard), try to not wear your light-coloured suede footwear out in the rain… please. But once you know the tricks, you can apply this to all your suede shoes be it boots, mules or even your Boston’s.
Keep scrolling for our super-useful (and cost-effective) tips on how to clean suede boots, sandals and mules.
First things first: You can clean your suede without a proper suede-cleaning brush, but investing in one is a wise choice. (After all, they only cost about £5 on Amazon.) When using one to clean your shoes, be sure to brush only in the direction of the fibres, and avoid moving the brush back and forth over the surface.
Before you begin the cleaning process, put enough crumpled paper (like a newspaper or used computer paper) inside the shoes so they keep their natural shape while you go to work on them.
After removing excess dirt with your handy new suede-cleaning brush, gently rub the shoes with a clean towel. No water, nothing—only a clean, soft towel to wipe them down and remove the layers of dust and grime.
If you do notice any stains, get yourself a suede eraser (only £8 on Amazon), and gently rub off any water, oil or grease.
If you have some even tougher stains on your shoes, like salt, food or wine, pour a little vinegar on a clean cloth, and gently wipe the affected areas.
Shop some of our favourite suede shoes below.
Next up, Autumn/Winter 2022 Trends: The 15 Fashion Looks You Need to Know About.
This piece was published at an earlier date and has since been updated.
