How to clean suede trainers?

Suede trainers are made from the underside of animal hide, giving them a soft, smooth, and velvety texture that makes them stylish and unique. Unlike regular leather, suede is more delicate because its surface has tiny fibers that can easily trap dirt, dust, and stains. This special texture also makes suede highly sensitive to water, which is why it requires extra care compared to other shoe materials. If not cleaned properly, suede trainers can quickly lose their charm, look worn out, and even get damaged. That’s why it’s important to know how to clean suede trainers the right way.

Supplies You Need to Clean Suede Trainers

Suede cleaner
White vinegar or rubbing alcohol
Cornstarch or talcum powder
Hydrogen peroxide
Suede protector spray

Tools you Need to Clean Suede Trainers

Suede brush (horsehair or soft bristle)
Suede eraser (or pencil eraser)
Crepe rubber brush (for reviving nap)
Microfiber cloth or soft toothbrush
Shoe trees or crumpled newspaper (to keep shape)

Step-by-Step: How to Clean Suede Trainers

Preparation

Before you start, make sure your trainers keep their shape. Insert shoe trees or simply stuff them with newspaper. This will make cleaning easier and prevent creases. Always begin when your suede is dry—never try to clean wet suede because it damages the fibers.

Remove Loose Dirt

The first step is to get rid of any dust or dirt sitting on the surface. Take a suede brush or a soft toothbrush and gently sweep the material. Always brush in one direction, following the natural grain of the suede, to keep the texture looking smooth.

Remove Scuffs & Marks

Scuffs are common with suede trainers, but they’re easy to fix. Gently rub the area with a suede eraser or even a clean pencil eraser. If the mark is stubborn, a crepe rubber brush can help lift it without harming the material.

Tackle Stubborn Stains

Some stains need a little more attention. Lightly dab the spot with a cloth dipped in suede cleaner, vinegar, or rubbing alcohol. Work gently side to side without soaking the shoe—too much liquid can leave marks. Patience is key here.

Stain-Specific Fixes

For oil and grease, sprinkle cornstarch or talcum powder over the spot and leave it for a few hours before brushing it off.
For gum or wax, place your trainers in a bag and freeze them. Once hardened, scrape the residue off carefully.
For blood stains, dab with a little hydrogen peroxide and let it dry. Repeat if needed.
For water marks, lightly mist the entire shoe with water, then brush evenly and let it dry to avoid uneven patches.

Drying the Trainers

After cleaning, always let your trainers dry naturally. Place them in a cool, ventilated space and give them time. Avoid direct sunlight, radiators, or hairdryers—heat can shrink or damage the suede.

Protect & Maintain

Once they’re clean and dry, protect your trainers with a suede spray. This will help shield them from dirt and water in the future. Make brushing a habit after every wear to keep the nap fresh. When not in use, store them with cedar shoe trees or newspaper to hold their shape and absorb moisture.

FAQs

What’s the best way to clean suede trainers?

The best way is to brush them with a suede brush to remove dirt, then use a suede eraser for scuffs. For stains, dab gently with vinegar or rubbing alcohol instead of soaking the shoe. Always let the air dry naturally. A suede protector spray will help keep them clean for longer.

Can you wash adidas suede trainers?

No, you should never put suede trainers in the washing machine. The water and spin cycle can ruin the suede’s texture and shape. Instead, clean them gently by hand with a brush and spot-clean stains with the right products. This keeps them looking fresh without damage.

Can I use Fairy Liquid on suede shoes?

Fairy Liquid (or any dish soap) isn’t the best choice for suede. It’s too harsh and can leave stains or water marks on the material. Stick to suede cleaner, vinegar, or rubbing alcohol instead. These are safer options and won’t ruin the texture of your trainers.