How to Clean Suede Trainers Without Ruining Them
Suede is leather with a soft, brushed surface called the nap, which gives it that velvety look. It is also why suede marks so easily: water, mud and grease soak into the fibres instead of sitting on top. The good news is that most suede trainers can be brought back with the right care, as long as you avoid a few common mistakes.
Before you start
If your trainers are wet, stuff them with paper to hold their shape and let them dry naturally at room temperature. Never put them on a radiator or in a tumble dryer.
Wait until mud is completely dry before you touch it. Wet mud smears deeper into the nap.
How to clean suede trainers at home
Brush off loose dirt with a soft suede brush, working in one direction.
Rub small marks and scuffs gently with a suede eraser.
Brush again to lift the nap so the colour looks even.
Wash laces and insoles separately in warm soapy water and let them air dry.
Once the trainers are clean and dry, finish with a suede protector spray to help repel water and stains.
What not to do
Do not put suede trainers in the washing machine. Water and spinning can leave tide marks, shrink the leather and loosen the glue that holds the sole.
Do not scrub with water, washing-up liquid or household stain removers.
Do not dry them with heat, which can make suede stiff and cracked.
When to bring them to a professional
Oil and grease stains, water marks, white salt lines from winter pavements, faded colour and smells that will not shift are hard to fix at home and easy to make worse. Our footwear cleaning uses the Electrolux Lagoon® system, a controlled water-based process with biodegradable detergents and suede-safe products. It lifts dirt and odours and revives the nap without harsh chemicals. We clean suede and leather trainers, shoes and boots, and Ugg and sheepskin boots too.
Find out more
See prices and details on our footwear cleaning page, or drop your trainers at our shops in Heaton, Gosforth, Low Fell or Hexham. Bag looking tired as well? We also offer handbag cleaning and repairs.