Suede and nubuck respond best to low-moisture care. A simple routine can help:

1. Dry prep: Let dirt dry fully, then use a soft suede brush to lift dust. Brush in one direction first, then back to raise the nap.
2. Target scuffs: Use a suede eraser on marks and shiny spots with light, even strokes.
3. Spot-test: Test a suede/nubuck cleaner (foam or trigger spray) in a hidden area for colorfastness.
4. Clean lightly: Apply a small amount to a cloth or brush—don’t soak the material—and gently work the area. Blot, don’t rub.
5. Air-dry: Dry away from heat or sun, then re-brush to restore texture.

This approach can help refresh suede without over-wetting. Results may vary by dye and finish.

Dish soap can leave residue, cause water spots, or darken suede. A suede-specific cleaner is a safer choice because it’s formulated to clean while respecting the nap and color.

• Right product: Look for a cleaner labeled for suede/nubuck and pair it with a soft brush and a rubber eraser.
• While you wait: If you can’t clean immediately, blot moisture with paper (don’t rub), let it dry, then gently brush and use an eraser on scuffs.
• Use less moisture: Apply small amounts of cleaner and always spot-test first.

Using purpose-made suede care products can help reduce the chance of residue or discoloration compared to household soaps.

Suede is delicate, so certain products and methods can cause damage. It’s usually best to avoid:

• Excess water or soaking: Can cause stains, stiffness, and color changes.
• All-purpose cleaners, bleach, or strong solvents: May strip dye or alter texture.
• Oils, waxes, or polish: Can darken and matte the nap.
• High heat or direct sun: Can shrink, warp, or fade suede.
• Very stiff or wire brushes: Can scratch or tear fibers; use a soft suede brush.
• Colored cloths that bleed: Dye transfer is possible—use white, lint-free cloths.

When in doubt, spot-test any suede and nubuck cleaner in a hidden area and follow the product’s directions.

For shearling-style boots, treat the outer suede gently and keep the interior wool lining as dry as possible.

1. Dry brush: Remove loose dirt from the suede with a soft brush.
2. Spot-test: Test a suede/nubuck cleaner on a hidden spot to check colorfastness.
3. Clean exterior only: Apply a controlled amount of foam or spray to the suede upper and work it in lightly with a cloth or brush. Avoid saturating seams.
4. Shape and dry: Stuff with paper to hold shape and air-dry away from heat.
5. Restore nap: Once dry, re-brush to lift the texture.

If treating the lining, check the cleaner’s label for suitability and use minimal moisture. Results can vary by material blend.

A dedicated suede brush and stain eraser are core tools for care and quick cleanups.

• Brush benefits: Lifts surface dust, revives the nap, and reduces shiny spots. Use gentle, directional strokes; then cross-brush to raise fibers evenly.
• Eraser benefits: Targets scuffs, light stains, and marks without liquid. Rub lightly and evenly to avoid flattening the pile.
• When to add cleaner: For deeper stains or salt marks, pair these tools with a suede/nubuck cleaner. Always spot-test first and keep moisture low.

For day-to-day maintenance, brush and eraser alone can be enough. For tougher jobs, combining them with a purpose-made suede cleaner can offer a more thorough refresh.