Suede Shoe Care Guide: Keep Your Suede Looking Its Best

Suede shoes are stylish, comfortable, and timeless, but they require special care to keep them looking fresh. Unlike smooth leather, suede has a soft, textured surface that can easily absorb dirt and stains. Here’s how to clean, maintain, and protect your suede shoes properly.

1. Remove Surface Dirt with a Suede Brush

A suede brush is an essential tool for keeping your shoes clean. We recommend using a Carthcart Elliot Suede Brush, designed specifically for gentle yet effective cleaning.

• Start with the rubber fingers: Gently massage the suede in a circular motion to lift surface dirt and erase light scuffs.
• Use the wire bristles for stubborn marks: If dirt remains, lightly brush in the same direction as the suede nap to restore texture.

✅ Pair your suede brush with a high-quality shoe tree to help maintain the shape of your shoes.

2. Remove Stains & Marks

For Light Stains:

• Use a suede eraser or a clean pencil eraser to rub away small marks.
• Avoid pressing too hard to prevent damage to the suede fibres.

For Water Stains:

• Dampen a clean microfiber cloth with a small amount of water.
• Lightly rub the entire shoe to prevent water rings from forming.
• Stuff the shoes with cedar shoe trees and allow them to air dry naturally (never use direct heat).

For Oil or Grease Stains:

• Sprinkle cornstarch or talcum powder over the stain and leave it overnight to absorb the grease.
• The next day, brush the area gently with your suede brush.

✅ A suede brush and shoe trees make a great addition to your suede care kit.

3. Protect with a Suede Protector Spray

To prevent stains and water damage, use a suede protector spray:

• Hold the spray about 20cm from the shoe and apply a light, even coat.
• Let the shoes dry for a few hours before wearing them.
• Reapply every few weeks or after exposure to rain.

✅ A suede protector spray is essential for long-term suede care—combine it with a suede brush for best results.

4. Restore & Maintain the Nap

Over time, suede can become flattened or shiny. To restore the soft, textured look:

• Use a suede brush to lift the nap after cleaning.
• Steam your suede shoes by holding them over a kettle or using a steam iron from a safe distance. This softens the fibres, making them easier to brush back to life.

✅ A shoe horn helps maintain the heel structure and prevents unnecessary wear on suede shoes.

5. Proper Storage & Care

• Store your suede shoes in a breathable cotton shoe bag to prevent dust accumulation.
• Keep them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
• Insert cedar wood shoe trees to absorb moisture and maintain their shape.

✅ Cotton shoe bags and cedar shoe trees help extend the life of your suede shoes.

Essential Suede Shoe Care Kit (Recommended Products)

• Carthcart Elliot Suede Brush – For everyday cleaning.
• Suede Protector Spray – Shields against stains and water damage.
• Cedar Shoe Trees – Helps maintain shape and absorb moisture.
• Cotton Shoe Bags – Protects from dust and damage.
• Shoe Horn – Prevents unnecessary creasing at the heel.

Keeping your suede shoes in top condition is easy with the right care routine and accessories. Invest in a quality suede care kit to enjoy your shoes for years to come!