Suede Care Master Class

Suede is comfortable and fashionable to wear; however, it is much more susceptible to absorbing dirt, water, and stains from daily use. With proper cleaning, conditioning, protection, and storage, you can ensure that your cherished suede footwear lasts for years, and possibly decades, to come.

Proper suede care can be broken down into three areas:

1. Cleaning:

• Use the Columbus Suede Brush for light brushing and surface cleaning.
• For more stubborn spots or stains, use the crepe rubber Boot Black Cleaning Bar.
• For embedded oil, grease, or denim stains, use the Boot Black Suede Cleaner spray.

      2. Care:

• Restore lost color with a suede color spray.
• Condition with Boot Black Suede Rich Moisture.

      3.  Protection:

• Use waterproof and stain-repellent sprays.

 

Suede Cleaning Techniques

Always take a “less is more” approach when cleaning suede. Start gently with a soft-bristle brush, brushing in one direction and then back in the opposite direction. This should remove most surface dust and dirt that tends to collect within the nap of the suede. For tougher, embedded stains, additional tools, techniques, and products can aid in the cleaning process.

Using brushes with varying degrees of abrasiveness is a good approach. Gradually transition to more abrasive tools, like a wire brush instead of a nylon bristle brush, allowing you to clean deeper into the nap. However, be cautious; using overly abrasive brushes or brushing too hard can damage the nap irreversibly, so select your tools wisely.

Sandpaper can be useful for focusing on particularly stubborn stains. A small folded sheet of 400-grit sandpaper is effective, but a safer option is the Boot Black Cleaning Bar. Made from durable yet pliable crepe rubber, this cleaning bar is versatile enough to tackle various stain types, even on intricate areas of footwear, and it can be used to clean certain types of white midsoles.

Suede cleaning solutions and sprays can also help with challenging stains, such as oil and denim transfer stains. Boot Black Suede Cleaner, for example, should be sprayed on the stained area, allowed to soak in briefly, then gently dabbed with a clean microfiber or terrycloth towel. As it dries, continue dabbing with a clean part of the towel to absorb excess moisture, then use the Columbus Suede Brush to restore the nap as it dries. Brushing during drying helps prevent color inconsistencies.

Diluted white vinegar can work on certain stains, though it requires a skilled touch to avoid over-saturating the suede. Mix one part white vinegar with three to four parts water, and gently dab a slightly damp microfiber rag on the affected area and the surrounding nap. Let the suede dry before gently brushing to fluff up the nap. Repeat if necessary.

 

Suede Color Corrective Sprays

Suede color correction sprays can restore extremely worn or faded suede footwear. Protect other areas, such as midsoles, with painter's tape. Always test the spray on an inconspicuous spot to ensure the color matches. Apply the spray in a continuous motion about 6-10 inches away from the footwear. Use at least two light coats, allowing each coat to dry before applying the next. Reapply as needed.

 

Suede Conditioning

Suede conditioner is an often-overlooked aspect of suede care. It helps prevent suede from becoming dry and stiff, which extends the life of your footwear. Boot Black Suede Rich Moisture conditioner, which contains argan oil and other minerals, softens, conditions, and revitalizes color while restoring a velvety texture. Clean the suede before applying conditioner or protective sprays. Apply a fine mist of Boot Black Suede Rich Moisture Spray and let it soak in. Brush away any large droplets with a soft-bristle brush, and allow the suede to dry completely before applying a waterproof or stain-protective spray.

 

Suede Waterproof/Stain Protection Sprays

Waterproof and stain-protective sprays are essential for preserving suede footwear. Apply two light coats of suede waterproofing or stain protection spray to ensure protection. Avoid over-saturating by spraying from 6-10 inches away in a continuous motion. Reapply occasionally, especially during rainy or snowy seasons, to maintain the protective barrier. While these sprays help keep suede clean, they are not foolproof; some stains, like denim transfer and oil, may remain permanent despite protection.

 

Thank you