How do you clean suede shoes?

One of the questions we often get is how to easily clean suede shoes.
There are actually several different methods you can use, which we’ll go over in this article.

There can be a big difference in the type of suede your shoes are made of. Some shoes require extra delicate care, while others can handle being washed with water and soap without any issues. It also matters whether you’re dealing with a simple mud stain or something more stubborn like grease. In this guide, I’ll cover a few of the methods that I personally find most effective.

1. Use a Suede Brush and Cleaning Soap

From my experience, this is one of the most commonly used and effective methods. Just keep in mind that very delicate suede shoes might not tolerate water and soap well, so use this method with caution. That said, most suede shoes and sneakers handle it just fine. We recommend using a cleaning foam along with a dedicated suede brush..

You can find more detailed instructions on the brush and soap product pages.

The brush and cleaning soap are also available as a set here.

2. Use a Crepe Brush to Freshen Up Shoes On the Go

A crepe brush has rubber surfaces that pick up dirt and debris. It works on suede, nubuck, and even leather shoes. It’s suitable for delicate shoes and easy to carry in your bag.
This brush is specially designed for suede and nubuck, making it ideal for quick touch-ups when you're on the move.

Remember: A Crepe Brush Doesn’t Deep Clean – But It’s Gentle and Easy to Use

Keep in mind that a crepe brush doesn’t clean as thoroughly as some of the other methods, but it’s incredibly gentle and user-friendly.

You don’t need water or any cleaning products when using it. In fact, it’s one of the mildest ways to clean suede shoes. Just note that a crepe brush won’t remove large mud stains from your suede shoes or sneakers—it’s meant for light maintenance and refreshment. It’s also perfect for restoring the nap (the tiny fibers on the surface) if your suede has become stiff over time.

How to use a crepe brush:

1. Remove any loose dirt or debris from the shoes

2. Firmly stroke the brush across the surface of the shoe

3. To clean the brush itself, simply rinse it with water

The brush works by using the rubber surface to lift dirt, which then gets trapped between the rubber ridges of the brush.
You can buy our crepe brush here. Alternatively, you can get it as part of our 3-in-1 brush set here.