How to Clean Suede Shoes (and Keep Them Looking New)
Wondering how to clean suede shoes? Emmy's step-by-step guide covers brushing, stain removal and protection, so your Emmy London shoes stays soft, rich and beautiful for years.
There’s nothing quite like suede. The soft, velvety nap catches the light, the colour looks rich and deep, and suede heels instantly feel luxurious. But it’s also a material that makes people nervous. One drizzly walk or splash of champagne, and the worry sets in.
The good news is that suede is far more forgiving than its reputation suggests. With the right cleaning routine, a little care goes a long way. Here’s Emmy's guide to keeping your favourite pair looking as beautiful as the day you unboxed them.
Always test on a small, hidden area first, especially on coloured suede. If you don't feel comfortable cleaning your Emmy London suede shoes at home please contact us for further information.
4. Tackle stains with care - Different stains need different treatment
Shop Comfort and Care Kit
Our Shoe Care & Comfort Kit contains everything you need for the care of your shoes & bag for your big event and beyond!
A few simple habits make all the difference:
A note on embellished suede
Many of our designs feature hand-finished details, from Swarovski crystals to delicate beading. Take extra care around these areas: use a soft brush rather than an eraser, and avoid applying liquids directly to the embellishment. For anything stubborn, we’d recommend contacting us rather than trying to tackle it at home.
Yes, you can clean your suede shoes at home with the right tools and a little care. Start by allowing any dirt or mud to dry completely, then gently brush the surface with a suede brush to lift away loose dirt and restore the nap. For small marks, use a suede eraser or a specialist suede cleaner, following the manufacturer’s instructions. Avoid saturating the material and leave your shoes to air-dry naturally before brushing them again. For stubborn stains, watermarks or delicate finishes, consider seeking professional shoe-cleaning advice to help protect your shoes.
We don’t recommend using Fairy Liquid or household detergents to clean suede shoes. These products aren’t formulated for delicate suede and may leave residue, cause discolouration or alter the texture of the material. For surface marks, a clean suede brush or rubber may be all you need.
Suede is a delicate material, so it’s important to clean it gently to preserve its soft texture and appearance. Avoid soaking your shoes in water, using harsh cleaning products or applying excessive pressure when brushing, as these can damage the fibres or leave marks. Household detergents, bleach and all-purpose cleaners should also be avoided. Follow the steps in this blog to safely clean your suede shoes.