10 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cleaning Suede Shoes: Tips for Protecting Your Delicate Material
Suede shoes are a popular choice for many people, as they are stylish and durable. However, suede can be difficult to care for, and if not cleaned properly, it can quickly become damaged. In this article, we'll go over the top 10 common mistakes people make when cleaning suede shoes, and provide expert tips for keeping your suede shoes looking their best.
1. Using Water
One of the biggest mistakes people make when cleaning suede is using water. Seriously, if you only take one thing away from this article: avoid water.
Suede is a delicate material that can easily be damaged by water, causing it to become discolored and distorted. A lot of suedes are dyed to get their color, and using water washes that dye out, leading to discoloration and fading. Instead of using water, try using a suede brush or eraser to remove any dirt or stains.
2. Rubbing Too Hard
Another common mistake is rubbing suede shoes too hard. Rubbing can damage the delicate fibers of suede, resulting in worn-out and faded areas. Always use a gentle touch when cleaning suede shoes, and avoid using abrasive materials.
3. Using Harsh Chemicals
Harsh chemicals like bleach or ammonia can be disastrous for suede, causing discoloration and brittleness. Instead, opt for a specially formulated suede cleaner that is safe for the material.
4. Not Testing Products
Before using any cleaning products on suede shoes, it is important to test them on a small, inconspicuous area first. This will help to ensure that you avoid unwanted damage or discoloration.
5. Using a Regular Brush
Using a regular brush with stiff bristles can damage the delicate fibers of suede, causing it to become worn and faded. Instead, use a soft-bristled brush or a special suede brush that's specifically designed for the material.
Note: There are definitely instances where you want to use a stiff brush, but generally avoid it to be safe.
6. Ignoring Stains
Ignoring stains on suede can make them even harder to clean in the future, and can cause permanent damage to the material. It's important to deal with stains as soon as possible using a suede cleaner or other gentle cleaning products.
7. Not Protecting Suede
Suede is a delicate material that requires special care and protection. To protect suede from future stains and damage, use a suede protector spray that's specifically designed for the material.
8. Not Allowing Shoes to Dry Completely
If suede shoes get wet, it's important to allow them to dry completely before wearing them again. Wearing wet suede shoes can damage the material and cause the shoes to lose their shape.
9. Using Heat to Dry Suede
Never use a hairdryer or any other source of heat to dry suede shoes, as this can cause the material to shrink or become misshapen. Instead, allow suede shoes to air dry naturally.
10. Not Seeking Professional Help
If you're unsure how to clean suede shoes or if you've already damaged them, it's best to seek professional help rather than risking further damage. Professional cleaners (such as myself) have the tools and expertise needed to clean suede safely and effectively.
To recap, suede is a delicate material that requires special care when it comes to cleaning. By avoiding these common cleaning mistakes, you can keep your suede shoes in impeccable condition for years to come. Follow our expert tips and level up your suede shoe care routine to ensure your kicks always look their best. Your suede shoes deserve the utmost care, so let's protect them and rock the suede game like true sneaker connoisseurs!