Warmer weather, morning walks, daily runs, and a whole lot of rain. Spring is now in full swing, and one thing that’ll need some extra TLC is your suede sneakers.
Image courtesy of Jack O'Hara via Unsplash Images
Yes, we know, they’re not the easiest to look after when the weather is so unpredictable, but as sneaker care connoisseurs, we know all the tips and tricks in the book to keep your suede sneakers looking box-fresh wherever you go this season.
Stay tuned for the below for the best cleaning, reviving, and protection practices for your suede sneakers.
The Best Way to Clean Suede Sneakers
Like any sneaker, your velvety suede needs a clean; however, due to its soft nature, it’s not built to withstand heavy water exposure. If exposed to large amounts of water over time, your suede material can change, becoming brittle, stiff, and susceptible to color bleeding.
When these effects come into play, they can cause irreversible damage to your sneakers, which is why we always recommend dampening your suede sneakers when cleaning them. Gently go in with our Cure solution and brush the suede in one, continuous motion to avoid disrupting the nap pattern. Once the desired results are achieved, allow your suede sneakers to fully dry outside or in a well-ventilated area before wearing.
Top Tip: Before cleaning colored suede, please test the product in an inconspicuous area before using.
Here’s the Best Way to Clean Air Jordan 4s at Home
How to Bring Suede Sneakers Back to Life
Dull, colorless suede running your fit? Well, it doesn’t have to. Over time, suede can slowly lose its vibrancy, and when this happens, it’s time for you to grab a Suede Reviver. The beauty of this product is that it has two built-in brush types and a suede solution, so you can tackle all types of suede. Fine textures, pigskin, and hairy suede – this product is the holy grail.
All you need to do is use your preferred brush type to brush the nap, apply some Suede Reviver to the affected area, and allow it to sit for no longer than 1-2 minutes. If left longer than 5 minutes, it might cause the suede to stiffen, making the re-napping process difficult to tackle.
Check out the Ultimate Guide to the Crep Protect Suede Reviver
Now the product has been absorbed into the suede, use the preferred brush type (soft or hard brush) to work your suede in one continuous motion, and you’ll see your suede sneakers come back to life right before your eyes.
Use the table below to guide you:
Suede & Nubuck Care Recommendations:
| Suede / Nubuck Type | Found On | Brush Type |
|---|---|---|
| Split Suede | Puma Suedes, adidas Gazelles, New Balance 574 & 2002R, Nike Killshot 2 |
Use the soft brush part of the Suede Reviver, as split suede is very soft, fine, and pliable. Once the Suede Reviver is applied to the split suede, gently work the soft brush into the material to work the nap. |
| Reverse Suede | Vans Knu Skool, New Balance Gator Run |
The hard brush would be the best part to use when working through this type of suede due to it being tougher and more fibrous. Apply medium pressure when working on this type of suede, as too much pressure can remove layers, causing it to look worn out. |
| Top-Grain Nubuck | Air Force 1 Low, Air Jordan models |
The soft brush is the best option for working this suede due to its sand-like/velvety composition. Apply a light pressure to this suede to work the nap, moving the brush in slow, steady motions until the desired results are achieved. |
| Perforated Suede | Axel Arigato, adidas Japan, Micheal Kors |
The soft brush is the best option for working this suede due to its plush and flexible composition. Apply a light/medium pressure to this suede to work the nap, moving the brush in slow, steady motions until the desired results are achieved. |
Top Tip: Ensure you clean your suede sneakers before application. You can use our Cure Travel Kit or our Eraser to help you.
How to Keep Suede Sneakers Protected in Wet Weather
Picture this: you’ve just copped a new pair of suede sneakers, and before you head out, it has started to rain. What do you do in this scenario? We know, give them the protection they deserve with the Crep Protect Spray. Perfect for repelling liquid and stains, our spray creates a hydrophobic barrier over your sneakers for up to 4 weeks of long-lasting protection.
And no, it's not just made for brand new sneakers; it can work across your whole collection. We just advise that you clean them before protecting them.
Top Tip: Spray your sneakers from a 20 cm distance and apply two coats. Allow 15 mins drying time between each coat, and you’re good to go!
How to Remove Scuffs From Suede Sneakers
Been walking in your suedes all day? Chances are, they’re likely to get a small scuff or stain on them from time to time. That’s why you should always have our Suede Eraser handy. Perfect for scuffs, the Crep Protect Eraser is the perfect way to touch up your suede sneakers wherever you are. Just gently rub the affected area in a continuous motion, slowly building up the pressure until any scuffs and marks have been removed.
It’s also pocket-sized and comes in a reusable tin, so you can take it with you on the go. It’s suede cleaning made effortless in the best way possible.
Top Tip: Do not apply too much pressure on the Eraser as this can remove too many layers of your suede, causing it to look flat and matted. One layer is enough to remove scuffs.
How to Keep Suede Sneakers Fresh Without a Washing Machine
If you think the washing machine will help your sneakers smell as fresh as when you bought them, think again. Not only does the washing machine cause water saturation, color bleeding, and matting on your suede, but it can also weaken the glue and overall composition of your sneaker with little or no freshness added.
Ditch the washing machine and keep your suedes invigorated from the inside out with Crep Protect Deo. All you need to do is place the nozzle into your sneaker, push down to release the sneaker, and you’re good to go.
Top Tip: Apply as many times as needed to keep your sneakers smelling fresh. The fragrance typically lasts up to 24 hours.
Bottom Line:
Keeping your suede sneakers fresh throughout spring doesn’t have to be difficult. With the right cleaning routine, protection spray, and maintenance tools, you can keep your favorite pairs looking box-fresh all season long.
FAQs:
Can suede sneakers get wet?
Suede sneakers can handle small amounts of moisture, but they should not be heavily soaked. Excessive water exposure can cause suede to become stiff, brittle, and prone to color bleeding. If your suede sneakers get wet, allow them to air dry naturally in a well-ventilated area and avoid using direct heat sources.
How do you restore faded suede?
To restore faded suede, use a suede reviver and gently work the product into the material using the appropriate brush type. Once applied, brush the suede in one continuous motion to revive the nap and bring back its original texture and colour. Be careful not to leave the solution on for too long, as this can cause the suede to stiffen.
Can you wash suede sneakers in the washing machine?
No, suede sneakers should not be washed in the washing machine. Washing machines can oversaturate suede, causing matting, colour bleeding, and damage to the sneaker’s glue and structure. Instead, clean suede sneakers using a damp brush, suede cleaner, or suede eraser for safer and more effective results.
What brush should you use on suede?
The best brush for suede depends on the type of suede material:
- Soft brushes are ideal for split suede, nubuck, and perforated suede because they help maintain the soft texture without damaging the nap.
- Hard brushes are better suited to tougher reverse suede materials, where slightly firmer pressure is needed to lift and restore the fibres.
Always brush suede in slow, consistent motions to avoid damaging the material.
How often should you protect suede sneakers?
It’s recommended to protect suede sneakers before their first wear and reapply protection regularly, especially during wet weather. A suede protection spray can provide up to 4 weeks of protection against water and stains. For best results, always clean your sneakers before reapplying the protector spray.
Make sure keep it locked in with the latest from Crep Daily
Our Suede Selection
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