When it comes to making a statement, bold suede trainers stand unrivaled.

Although we love the velvety texture of suede, streets can be harsh on its surface and make it challenging to keep in good condition. So, it's only fair to let you know a few ways to clean suede trainers.

What is suede, and what makes it so popular? It's a type of leather that has a unique feel. This texture sets it apart from other uppers like canvas or smooth leather. 

 

The very thing that makes it stand out is what makes it easy to get damaged or stained. We're not saying suede isn't durable.

 

Like any pair of sneakers, these trainers need the proper care to make them last longer. It's great to keep your adidas Gazelle and other suede kicks looking new. Here's where we come in.

 

To protect that fresh look, there is one very simple piece of advice we can give you. Do not perform Tyla's Water dance if you're wearing suede trainers.

 

Also, never wash suede sneakers. Water tends to ruin suede, so don't wear them close to swimming pools either. It's pretty much a bad idea to wear them when it's raining too. Catch the drift?  

 

However, no one can control the weather. You can apply certain finishes to the upper of your shoes to keep them waterproof, but this can change the unique look of your pair of PUMA Palermos or adidas Campus.

 

Finishes are not the only things that can help you keep those sneakers looking ready to be paired with your favorite fit.

Items

 

·       Suede cleaner, white vinegar, or rubbing alcohol

·       Hydrogen peroxide 

·       Corn flour or talcum powder 

·       Suede protector spray 

 

Tools

 

·       Suede cleaning brush, toothbrush, microfiber cloth or soft-bristle shoe brush

·       A suede eraser or pencil rubber

·       Microfiber cloth

·       Lint roller

 

Routine Care 

 

Don’t sleep on taking care of your new favorites. Regularly cleaning your sneakers is important to keep them for a long time. Storing them properly is also super important.

 

Before cleaning, stuff your shoes with newspaper or a shoe tree to maintain their shape. That's not all, though; remember to clean your shoes only when they're dry.

 

You should also know that dumping your trainers in the dryer is like a whirlwind romance destined for disaster. 

 

Now that the basics are covered let's talk about drying.

 

First, stuff your suede trainers with newspaper or white paper towels. Then, air dry them in a well-ventilated place or in front of a fan. This will keep that look and get heads turning. 

There are different scenarios that will need their own special ways of cleaning. Always make sure you've got the right method for every situation. 

 

1. Dirt and Debris Removal

 

Use a soft-bristled brush or a toothbrush to remove surface dirt. Suede brushes are designed to remove dirt and restore the naps of the upper. Gentle strokes will do the trick here.

 

If you don’t happen to have either of these, a soft cloth is a good substitute. Also, don’t use soap or water here. Remember what we said about water near suede? 

 

2. Rubbing Out Scuffs

 

A clean eraser or sponge will help you tackle those oh-so-stubborn marks or stains with some careful scrubbing. It's important to make sure the eraser is not stained.

 

Apply the eraser or sponge very gently over the scuffed surface if you want to avoid damage. 

 

3. Handling Tough Stains

 

There are those stains that just won't go away. We've got something for those too. Use a suede cleaner, rubbing alcohol, or white vinegar solution.

 

Wet a cloth or soft brush lightly with any of the three. If that happens, make sure to reduce excess liquid before you start.

 

Now, wipe the stain less gently than before. If it doesn't work, just repeat. Dry the shoes with a fan or in a cool place, and then brush the nap. 

 

Specific Stain Tips

 

Oil and Grease: Absorb oil with talcum powder. Keep it at room temperature as if you were air drying the shoes. Then brush off the powder gently.

 

Gum or Wax: Dry the shoes to harden the wax, this will make it easier to remove.

 

Now that you know how to clean suede shoes, are you feeling confident to grow your collection? Look no further. In addition to the Gazelles and Palermos, our selection of PUMA Suede and Suede Skate shoes are top picks of the season to look fresh.

 

SHOP SUEDE SHOES