How To Make Your Suede Last All Winter

While Suede shoes and jackets are the raves this autumn and winter season, it can be very difficult to protect the fabric from the elements. Rain, ice, snow, slush and the dreaded salt used to de-ice sidewalks are not friendly to suede shoes and boots. Some factors to note about suede are that it’s naturally porous and the fabric isn’t water-repelling. Unfortunately, these factors mean that suede can be stained by liquids. Additionally, the aforementioned winter-y elements can cause your footwear to change shape and cause the dye to run.

Here’s how to make your suede last all winter

• Make Sure Your Suede is High Quality

Invest in best suede possible. That way the maintenance can be easier, since the fabric and texture is high quality. Remember synthetic fibers are more susceptible to damage.

• Protect your Suede

Use protective sprays for suede like if it was your precious sunscreen. Consider it as going outside without ensuring your boots are protected, would this sound good? the answer is no. You can pick up suede protector everywhere, from drug stores to shoe stores in a range of prices. It will help repel dirt and water and will help treat stains before they settle into the fabric. You’ll only need to apply a thin layer of the spray once every few months. If you’re buying a new pair, we recommend spraying them right away then again once the cold weather hits.You should leave the shoes for a few hours before you wear them so the protector can set. We recommend spraying before bed then leaving them overnight for maximum efficiency.

• These are the only materials you need to protect your suede goods

• Cornmeal
• Toothbrush
• Emery board
• Eraser
• Vinegar

• • Use Corn Meal for Liquid Stains

Unfortunately, suede protective sprays are not 100% effective. If you do end up with a liquid stain, don’t fret. You can use items you will likely already have at home like cornmeal. At the first sight of a liquid stain, lightly pat at the stain with a towel and leave a layer of either one of these powders overnight. Brush the suede with your special suede brush to get rid of the residue and your footwear should be back to normal.

• • Use White Vinegar on Set Stains

If you weren’t able to get to your liquid stain right away or there’s a dirt or salt stain, there are other household items you can use as a solution. If you have a pencil eraser or an emery board, you can buff off the stain with one of these. If this doesn’t work, pat the stain with a towel and white vinegar. Keep patting until the stain starts to disappear.

• • Use a toothbrush

You may be shocked to learn that a toothbrush is a fantastic tool for revitalizing your suede. Next time you go to the dentist, hold onto the free toothbrush they give you. Scrub the suede with this brand new one. You can also use steam to treat the suede fabric further. Put the shoes on your kitchen counter while boiling water in a kettle or pot then scrub with the toothbrush so the fabric is a bit softer.

• Never Clean with Water

The best advice is to never clean your suede with water. As aforementioned, the fabric is not naturally water repellent so it’ll negatively impact the texture and color. Always use the other solutions.

• Never Wear Them on Particularly Snowy or Rainy Days

Always check the weather in the winter and if it calls for snow, hail or rain, keep your suede footwear inside. This tip is the best way to prevent your suede from getting damaged beyond repair. You can still wear your suede in the winter but it’s best to save it for days with no precipitation.