Maxine Eggenberger
It's officially boot season, and I for one love nothing more than slipping my feet into a chic, full-coverage footwear option. Whether you prefer ankle boots, knee-high styles or a daring over-the-knee option, the reality is that boots can be worn almost all year round, though this is one shoe trend I've been tentative to wear, even in the warmer months.
For a long time, I avoided suede boots because of how temperamental the UK weather can be—even at the height of spring/summer, we know the risk of rain still runs high—but once I found out how easy it was to care for suede boots, I'm now a suede boot convert. The texture adds contrast to classic looks, and with so many beautiful suede boots on the market, knowing how to care for your suede boots will open you up to so many great styles.
Cleaning suede can be quite the ordeal—if you do it wrong you could ruin your beloved boots and shoes. But if you do it correctly, you ensure that your suede beauties reach their maximum lifespan and remain in pristine condition wear after wear. And I've got all the tips you need to ensure your suede boots last. If you can remember ahead of time: All new pairs of suede shoes and boots should be sprayed with a suede protector to extend their pristine condition in the first place. Also (we know this is hard), try to not wear your light-coloured suede footwear out in the rain… please. But once you know the tricks, you can apply this to all your suede shoes be it boots, mules or even your Bostons.
Keep scrolling for our super-useful (and cost-effective) tips on how to clean suede boots, sandals and mules.
How to Clean Suede Boots Like a Total Pro
1. Invest in a Suede-Cleaning Brush
First things first: You can clean your suede without a proper suede-cleaning brush, but investing in one is a wise choice. (After all, they only cost about £5 on Amazon.) When using one to clean your shoes, be sure to brush only in the direction of the fibres, and avoid moving the brush back and forth over the surface.
2. Put Crumpled Paper Inside Before Cleaning
Before you begin the cleaning process, put enough crumpled paper (like a newspaper or used computer paper) inside the shoes so they keep their natural shape while you go to work on them.
3. Rub the Surface With a Clean Bath Towel
After removing excess dirt with your handy new suede-cleaning brush, gently rub the shoes with a clean towel. No water, nothing—only a clean, soft towel to wipe them down and remove the layers of dust and grime.
4. Remove Stains With an Eraser
If you do notice any stains, get yourself a suede eraser (only £8 on Amazon), and gently rub off any water, oil or grease.
5. For Really Tough Grime, Use White Vinegar
If you have some even tougher stains on your shoes, like salt, food or wine, pour a little vinegar on a clean cloth, and gently wipe the affected areas.
Shop some of our favourite suede shoes and a suede-cleaning starter kit below.
Shop Suede Cleaning Products
This mutifunctional brush has a brush side, dimple side, rubbing side and bristle side.
Gently rub off any water, oil or grease with this eraser set.
All you need to keep your shoedrobe fresh.
Shop Suede Boots
This pair from H&M will be future bestsellers, I just know it.
The perfect shade of dark brown.
Staud's Wally boots are an icon in the fashion industry, and come in a knee length too.
Such an unusual shade of tan.
Toteme's suede boots have been on my wish list for two winters now.
Kitten-heel boots are a major trend, too.
I wouldn't mind a pair of Reformation Remys either.
These are black ankle boot perfection.
The leather anklet detailing is such a chic addition.
For a sleek silhouette, a sock boot is where it's at.
Isabel Marant has long championed the boho vibes of suede boots.
A flat pair in a rare shade of expensive-looking olive green.
Nod to the western trend with this refined pair of cowboy ankle boots.
This piece was published at an earlier date and has since been updated.
