Caring for Your Suede Boots

Suede can be one of the most difficult fabrics to care for and to keep looking fabulous. It marks very easily, with even small amount of water holding the potential to damage the surface of the suede and mark it permanently. When you buy your suede boots, the next thing on your shopping list should be a tin of suede protector. This is a silicon-based product that puts a protective layer over the surface of suede boots and shoes, giving them a level of protection against the elements. Once you’ve applied the silicon spray, allow the boots to dry naturally. Do not be tempted to ‘speed the drying process up a bit’ by using direct heat such as a hairdryer. Direct heat can stiffen and crack suede, damaging the surface and condemning your women's boots to a lifetime at the back of your wardrobe.

Once you’ve applied the suede protector, you should then have a reasonable level of protection against watermarks, although it will not protect the suede completely against water damage. Suede boots are not really suitable for wearing in the rain and snow, as the surface of suede is highly porous and will quickly become sodden. Once dried, the telltale watermark on the toe of your shoe will be practically impossible to remove completely, although you can raise the nap of the suede to a certain degree by using a special suede brush. These are small, hard brushes usually made of brass or steel. Gently brush against the grain of the suede to restore the nap.

Because the pigmentation in suede boots is only on the surface, harsh chemicals and solvents may remove the colour from your boots so always try to avoid using any cleaning chemicals directly on the surface of the suede. If you do have a grease stain on your suede boots, it is advisable to have them professionally cleaned. Most high street cobblers will offer this service and even some dry cleaning agents may be able to clean suede boots. If you’re unsure, ask at your local shoe store to see if they can recommend a cleaning agent who may be able to help.

The wet cleaning remedies that work for smooth leather aren’t good for suede, which needs to stay dry so it doesn’t lose its texture. A kneadable eraser is great for quickly rubbing off overall dirt, or just lightly sand away obvious stains with an emery board. These methods are great for removing surface dirt, but don’t try scrubbing too hard or you may flatten the nap or even damage the surface of the boot. If you don’t have any success after a few minutes, take the safe option and ask a professional cleaner to do the job for you. If the nap of the suede is really matted, carefully hold the shoe a few inches above the spout of a steaming kettle for a few seconds and then brush up the nap with a suede brush. Don’t allow the suede to become wet, as this will in turn mark the surface.

Suede may be a bit ‘high maintenance’ to keep looking perfect, but with a little care and attention your suede boots can keep on looking good every time you wear them.

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