Faux suede can handle water-based cleaning methods, unlike real suede – a cloth lightly dampened with a mixture of water and a few drops of dish soap can be used to clean the surface, always blotting rather than soaking the fabric.
You should not use Dawn dish soap on suede shoes. It will ruin them.
Dry cleaning methods work well for faux suede. You can use a soft brush or cloth to remove dirt and dust. For tougher stains, try spot cleaning with clear alcohol like rubbing alcohol or vodka.
How to clean suede shoes
Faux suede can handle water-based cleaning methods, unlike real suede – a cloth lightly dampened with a mixture of water and a few drops of dish soap can be used to clean the surface, always blotting rather than soaking the fabric.
You can use warm water and dish soap to freshen up your UGG's appearance, as long as you don't scrub too hard. Always remember to allow your UGGs to sit overnight before wearing them again. Tip: Once your UGGs have been cleaned, sprinkle baking soda inside the boot or slipper to help deodorise them.
How to clean tougher stains on suede shoes: For tougher stains, we would recommend using white vinegar to clean your suede shoes, as it does not leave any marks. Never use water to clean your suede shoes.
Grab a baby wipe. I used Johnson's Baby Gentle Cleansing Wipes, €12 for 12 packets. Steer clear of face wipes though. They contain alcohol which may damage the suede.
Without protection, faux suede is not naturally waterproof and can stain easily from moisture, oil or grime.
If you have some surface dirt on your suede garment that isn't exactly a stain, you will probably be able to remove it by rubbing it with a dry magic eraser. Be sure not to overdo it; you can remove some of the suede nap if you're not careful, and end up with a thin or shiny spot on your leather.
What is the best cleaner for faux leather? For everyday cleaning, mild dish soap (like Dawn) diluted in warm water, applied with a damp microfibre cloth.
Oil & Grease Stains
To absorb the oil and grease from fresh stains, sprinkle cornstarch or baking soda onto the shoes and leave it on overnight. You may conduct a patch test first to ensure there is no further staining. Afterwards, scrape off the cornstarch or baking soda layer with a brush.
Instead of using water to clean suede, opt for white vinegar, dish soap or rubbing alcohol. You can also look into treating your suede items to make them resistant to water stains.
If you've gotten some water on your suedes, don't fret! Gently brush it with a horsehair brush, toothbrush, or microfiber cloth.
Typically, “damp cloth” means just plain water and not a detergent or cleaning solution of some sort because that would alter the nap. That's why Clorox™ Disinfecting Wipes are not recommended for spot treating micro suede fabrics (or natural suede for that matter).
Take your Murphy® Oil Soap further than you ever thought possible and spread some cleaning love around your home. Your bathrooms, leather products, landscaping, laundry and other household items will thank you.
White Vinegar
A simple bottle of white vinegar is a must-have for tougher stains. It's a natural, affordable cleaning solution that works wonders on suede when used sparingly.
One of the best DIY solutions to clean suede is a combination of equal parts white vinegar and water. “[This method] helps break down dirt without soaking the suede,” Roviello says. Simply dip a cloth in the mixture and dab it gently on the suede's stain. Let it dry completely.
If you want to clean light suede, it is best to use dry shampoo for light hair and for dark leather, dry shampoo for dark hair.
You use apple cider vinegar the same way as white vinegar, either “neat” or diluted 50:50 with water to make an all-purpose cleaner. We typically recommend diluting ACV with water for use on surfaces, tubs, sinks, to wash produce, etc. Straight vinegar may be used on cutting boards or to cut through grease.
Natural Bristle Brush
Natural Bristle Brushes seem to do a better job getting into the suede, and are the least likely to damage the suede.
Baking Soda and Vinegar
Then, spray your shoes with white or apple cider vinegar diluted with water. Rub your sneakers all over with a clean white cloth, using a circular motion. Allow your shoes to sit for 12 hours before wiping them down with a wet cloth.