Suede Stained? Don’t Panic! This Guide is Your New Balance Buddy. Learn how to clean suede New Balance shoes!

Suede SOS: From Dirty Kicks to Insta-Worthy Clicks

Tired of your suede New Balance shoes looking like they tackled a mud pie factory?

Don’t relegate those comfy kicks to the back of the closet! We’re about to unleash the secrets to restoring your suede New Balances to their velvety glory. No harsh chemicals or washing-machine disasters, but just pure suede-rejuvenating magic. ✨

So grab a shoebrush, ditch the despair, and get ready to revive your suede kicks! I will guide you through every step, from tackling everyday dirt to banishing stubborn scuffs.

Ready to step out of the suede-shame zone? Buckle up because the ultimate New Balance cleaning guide is about to drop!

Identify the Type and Severity of the Stain

Before cleaning any shoes, whether Nike Blazers or suede New Balances, you should identify the type and severity of the stain, as this will determine the best cleaning method and product to use. Different types of stains can affect suede shoes, such as:

• Dry stains: They include dust, dirt, or mud. They are usually light and easy to remove.
• Wet stains: They are caused by wet substances like water, juice, or wine. Often, they’re dark and hard to remove as they soak into the suede and change its color.
• Oil or grease stains: They’re caused by oily or greasy substances, like food, makeup, or lotion. They are usually shiny and sticky, clogging the suede fibers and making them stiff.

After identifying the stain severity, you can move to the next step of cleaning your suede New Balance shoes.

Items You Require

Cleaning your suede New Balance shoes will require the following items:

• A shoebrush or a toothbrush
• An eraser
• Vinegar (white vinegar or apple cider vinegar)
• Baking powder or cornstarch
• A soft cloth or a microfiber cloth
• A suede protector spray

Steps to Follow to Clean Suede New Balance shoes

Here are some steps you should follow when you want to clean your suede New Balance shoes, depending on the type and severity of the stain:

1. Use a Shoebrush to Wipe Away Loose Particles

Before cleaning your suede shoes, start by brushing away any loose particles from the surface of the suede. It will help to prevent the dirt from spreading or getting deeper into the suede. 

A shoe or toothbrush is ideal for gently brushing the suede in one direction. Do this at least once weekly to keep your suede shoes clean and fresh.

2. Rub out Stains with an Eraser

If your suede shoes have light or dry stains, such as dirt, dust, or mud, you can use an eraser to rub them out. You can use a regular pencil eraser or a special suede eraser and gently rub the stain in one direction until it disappears. 

Avoid rubbing too hard or fast, as this could damage the suede or worsen the stain. Not only that but avoid using a colored eraser, as this could transfer the color to the suede.

3. Clean Suede with Vinegar

If your suede shoes have any stubborn or wet stains, such as water, juice, or wine, you can use vinegar to clean them. White vinegar or apple cider vinegar are suitable for such stains. 

So, mix the vinegar with equal parts of water to start cleaning. You can use a spray bottle or a bowl to apply the vinegar solution to the stain. Then, gently dab the stain with a soft cloth or a sponge. 

Avoid soaking or rubbing the suede, as this could cause the stain to spread or the suede to shrink. Not only that, don’t use too much vinegar, as this could leave a smell or a residue on the suede. After cleaning the stain, use a dry cloth or a paper towel to blot the excess moisture from the suede, and let it air dry completely.

4. Use Baking Powder or Cornstarch For Oil or Grease Stains

If your suede shoes have oil or grease stains from food, makeup, or lotion, use baking powder or cornstarch to absorb them. Sprinkle the baking powder or cornstarch generously over the stain. 

Then, let it sit for a few hours or overnight, and then later brush it off with a shoe brush or a toothbrush. Repeat this process until the stain is gone or reduced. Be careful not to use too much baking powder or cornstarch, which could discolor or clog the suede. 

Avoid using other powders or substances, such as talcum powder or flour, as they could damage or stain the suede.

5. Apply Suede Protector Spray

After cleaning your suede shoes, apply a suede protector spray to protect them from water, dirt, and stains. You can use any suede protector spray that is suitable for your shoes, such as: 

• New Balance Water and Stain Repellent
• Kiwi Suede and Nubuck Protector

Follow the instructions on the product label, and spray the product evenly over the surface of the suede. Then, let the product dry completely before wearing your shoes. Do this regularly, at least once a month, to keep your suede shoes in good condition.

Why Suede Shoes Need Special Care

Suede shoes need special care because they are made from leather with a soft and fuzzy surface. Unlike smooth leather, suede has a nap, which is the raised fibers that give suede its texture and appearance. 

The nap makes suede more vulnerable to water, dirt, and stains, as they can penetrate the fibers and damage the suede. Therefore, suede shoes need regular cleaning for protection, using the right products and tools.

How to Prevent Water Damage to Your Suede Shoes

Suede shoes are not waterproof, and water can damage and discolor them. Therefore, you should try to prevent or minimize water damage to your suede shoes by following these tips:

• Avoid wearing your suede shoes in rainy, snowy, or wet conditions, as they can get soaked and stained.
• Apply a suede protector spray to your shoes before and after wearing them to repel water and stains.
• If your suede shoes get wet, dry them properly and promptly to prevent mold, mildew, or bad smell.

How to Store Suede New Balance Shoes

Store your suede shoes properly when not in use, as this can help to preserve their shape and quality. Here are some tips on how to store any shoes, whether Kiziks or suede New Balance shoes:

• Use shoe trees, bags, or boxes to store your suede shoes. Shoe trees are inserts that fit inside your shoes and keep them in form. Shoe bags are covers that protect your shoes from dust, dirt, or scratches. 
• Avoid plastic or paper to store your suede shoes. Plastic or paper can trap moisture and cause your suede shoes to mold or smell.
• Store your suede shoes in a cool and dry place such as a closet, a drawer, or a shelf.

Remember to check our other helpful guides on shoes and accessory cleaning.