With its luxurious, velvety texture, Suede has been a fashion favorite for ages. The term "suede" actually comes from the French phrase "gants de Suède," meaning "gloves of Sweden," which indicates that this material was initially popular for making gloves. Suede eventually became a popular shoe choice and can be found in all kinds of fashion items today!

As much as we love suede, it can be a clothing item that requires regular maintenance, depending on how much you care and love the shoe. Unlike regular leather, suede has no protective outer layer, making it more prone to stains, scuffs, and general wear. With that being said, this is our guide on how to restore suede shoes! These tips will help you bring your suede shoes back to life, making them a staple in your wardrobe once again. 

What is Suede and Why It’s Special

Before we discuss how to restore suede shoes, what exactly is suede? Suede comes from the underside of animal hide, typically from lambs, but it can also be made from goats and pigs. Its napped finish makes suede special, which gives it that soft, fuzzy texture we are familiar with. This texture is created by buffing the inner surface of the leather, making suede lighter and more breathable than full-grain leather.

However, this softness comes with a trade-off. Suede’s napped surface is more porous than other leathers, which makes it more vulnerable to stains, water damage, and wear. This means suede needs a little extra TLC, especially when it comes to cleaning and maintenance. But for those who appreciate its unique look and feel, the effort is totally worth it. That being said, let’s talk about how to restore suede shoes.

How To Restore Suede Shoes: Cleaning the Suede Surface

The first and most important step in restoring your suede shoes is cleaning the surface. Proper cleaning will remove dirt and stains and revive the nap, bringing back that soft, luxurious texture that makes suede special. Use these basic shoe repair techniques to bring your favorites back to life:

• Start with Brushing: Gently brush the shoes in one direction with a suede brush. This helps remove surface dirt and revive the nap. Always brush in the direction of the grain to avoid damaging the material.

 

• Use the Suede Eraser: For visible stains or scuffs, gently rub the affected areas with the suede eraser. The eraser dislodges dirt and lifts the nap, effectively blending away marks. 

 

• Light Cleaning: Use a specialized suede cleaner if your shoes need a more thorough cleaning. Apply the cleaner to a soft cloth and gently rub it into the suede in small circles. To ensure it doesn't discolor the suede, test the cleaner on a small, inconspicuous area first. 

 

• Reviving the Nap: Once the shoes are dry from the cleaner, use the brush again to lift the nap. This will restore the suede’s soft, fuzzy texture, making your shoes look as good as new.

 

How To Refurbish Suede Shoes: Protecting and Maintaining Restored Suede

After you’ve cleaned your suede shoes, it’s important to protect them from future damage. Proper maintenance will ensure that your restored shoes look their best for as long as possible.

• Regular Brushing: Brush your suede shoes after each wear. This will help remove dirt and keep the nap in good condition. Regular brushing also prevents dirt and oils from settling into the suede, making future cleaning easier. 

 

• Apply Protective Spray: After restoring your suede shoes, it’s crucial to apply a protective spray. This creates a barrier against water, stains, and dirt, helping to maintain the suede’s appearance. Reapply the protective spray every few weeks, especially if you wear the shoes frequently or in bad weather.

 

• Avoiding Water Damage: Suede is naturally absorbent, so it’s best to avoid wearing suede shoes in wet conditions. If your shoes do get wet, let them dry naturally at room temperature. Never use direct heat, as this can cause the suede to shrink or warp. 

Following these maintenance steps, you can keep your restored suede shoes looking fresh and new for years. Proper care enhances the appearance of your shoes and extends their lifespan, avoiding the need to use these shoe repair techniques.

Recognizing When DIY Isn’t Enough

Sometimes, knowing how to refurbish suede shoes isn’t enough, and the shoes are too far gone. This is when it's time for professional intervention. Knowing when to seek professional help can save your suede shoes from irreversible damage and restore them to their best possible condition.

• Deep Cuts and Tears: If your suede shoes have deep cuts, tears, or holes, it’s best to consult a professional. Cobblers with experience in suede repair can use specialized tools and techniques to mend the material, ensuring the repair is both durable and visually seamless.

 

• Severe Discoloration: While recoloring can address faded areas, severe or uneven discoloration may require professional dyeing services. Professional cobblers have access to higher-quality dyes and can achieve a more uniform color restoration, especially for complex or multi-tonal shades. 

 

• Structural Damage: A professional should handle loose stitching, damaged soles, or other structural issues. Attempting to repair these issues at home can compromise the fit and comfort of the shoe, leading to further wear and tear.

 

• Persistent Stains: Some stains, particularly those caused by oil, ink, or certain chemicals, can be challenging to remove with DIY methods. A professional cobbler has access to specialized cleaning agents and techniques that can effectively remove stubborn stains without damaging the suede. 

 

• Restoration of High-Value Shoes: If your suede shoes are particularly valuable—financially or sentimentally—it’s worth investing in professional restoration. A skilled cobbler can restore high-end or vintage suede shoes to their original condition, preserving their value and extending their lifespan.

 

Get New Favorites from VANELi Shoes

All things eventually come to an end, and sometimes, restoring suede shoes isn’t feasible. That’s why we have a luxurious selection of women’s suede shoes at VANELi! VANELi shoes are made with quality and style, which is why our suede shoes are ultra-stylish and made to last without sacrificing comfort. Explore our latest collection of women’s shoes and get your next favorite pair at VANELi today!