How to Clean and Care for Suede Sneakers
Suede sneakers need specific care to preserve their texture and color. This guide explains how to clean suede sneakers, protect them, dry them correctly and store them, as well as the mistakes to avoid.
Is suede hard to maintain?
No, as long as you take a few preventive steps. Suede is more sensitive to water and stains than smooth leather, but gentle brushing, regular protection and proper drying are usually enough to keep it in good condition.
How to clean suede sneakers
- Remove the laces and brush the sneakers while dry to remove dust and surface dirt.
- For light marks, use a suede eraser and brush gently again.
- For a deeper clean, use a cleaner specifically designed for suede or nubuck and follow the product instructions.
- Leave the sneakers to dry at room temperature, away from radiators, hair dryers and direct sunlight.
- Once completely dry, brush the suede again to help restore its texture.
We do not recommend washing suede sneakers in a washing machine or soaking them in water.
How to protect suede sneakers from day one
Before wearing them, apply a protective spray suitable for suede and nubuck. At FoogaPlan, we recommend the Universal Protector to help repel water and dirt. Apply it according to the product instructions and reapply periodically depending on use.
What to do if suede sneakers get wet
Blot excess moisture with an absorbent cloth without rubbing. Fill the inside with paper to help maintain the shape and allow the sneakers to air dry naturally. Once dry, gently brush the suede.
How to store suede sneakers
Keep them in a dry, ventilated place away from direct sunlight. You can use paper or shoe trees to help maintain their shape, and avoid stacking heavy shoes on top of them.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Do not machine wash suede sneakers.
- Do not use direct heat to speed up drying.
- Do not rub a wet stain.
- Do not use harsh cleaners that are not suitable for suede or nubuck.
FoogaPlan suede sneakers
These care tips are especially useful for models such as TROY Dune, ICON Carbone, ONE Military, ICON Smoke and ONE Kitt. You can also discover all our styles in the FoogaPlan sneakers collection.
Frequently asked questions
Can I wear suede sneakers in the rain?
A suitable protector can help with splashes and light rain, but we recommend avoiding heavy rain and puddles. If your sneakers get wet, allow them to dry naturally.
How often should I clean suede sneakers?
It depends on how often you wear them. Gentle brushing whenever you notice dust or surface dirt helps prevent buildup. A deeper clean is only necessary when brushing does not remove stains or dirt.
Can worn suede texture be restored?
In many cases, gentle brushing once the material is completely dry can help lift the fibers again. For significant damage or color changes, professional care is preferable.
How do you wash suede sneakers?
Avoid washing suede sneakers in a washing machine or soaking them. For routine cleaning, work on the material while dry first, then use a suede-specific cleaner only when necessary and follow its instructions.
For a quick overview of how to care for other materials, see our product care guide.
Comparing finishes before choosing? Read our sneaker materials guide: suede, canvas and nappa, with examples from the FoogaPlan collection.