How to Clean Suede Boots Without Suede Cleaner (5 Steps)

You love your suede boots, but keeping them clean without suede cleaner can feel impossible. I've been there too. One rainy day ruined my favorite suede pair. But I found a way to clean them at home without any fancy suede cleaner. It really worked, and they looked almost new again. In this article, you'll learn the exact method I used. No special cleaner needed. Just simple things you already have at home. Let me show you how to clean suede boots without suede cleaner and save your favorite pair.

Brush Off All Loose Dirt First

Before you try anything else, the first thing you should do is remove all loose dirt from your suede boots. This is very important because if you don't, you could push the dirt deeper into the material. Suede is soft and can be damaged very easily, so brushing gently is key.

Take a soft toothbrush or a clean dry cloth. You don't need a special suede brush, just something soft that won't damage the suede. Hold the boot in your hand and gently brush the surface. Use small strokes and always go in the same direction. If you brush in many directions, the nap (the soft raised surface) of the suede can get messed up. Be gentle and take your time. Do not use water yet.

If there are dry spots of mud, let them dry even more before brushing. When dry, they will flake off easily with a soft brush. Don’t press hard because this can press the dirt into the suede.

You should also remove the laces if your boots have them. This makes it easier to reach every part of the boot. You can clean the laces separately in warm soapy water.

Even after brushing, your boots may still look stained. That's okay. This first part is only to remove dry, loose dirt. After this, you'll work on the stains and deep cleaning.

Sometimes, your boots may have little scuff marks or shiny spots. These can often be brushed out by rubbing lightly in the opposite direction. Again, always be gentle. Suede is very sensitive.

You can also use a clean pencil eraser for small scuff marks. Rub the eraser gently over the mark and then brush the area again. This can lift light marks and bring back the texture.

Don't worry if your boots still look dusty or dark in some spots after brushing. That's normal. You will clean those parts next using other methods. But never skip this brushing step. Cleaning without brushing first can make everything worse.

• Use a soft toothbrush or dry cloth
• Always brush in one direction
• Let dry mud dry more before brushing
• Remove laces before cleaning
• Use a pencil eraser for small scuffs
• Never add water at this stage
• Be very gentle to protect the suede

Use White Vinegar for Stains

After brushing off the loose dirt, the next thing to do is remove stains. Suede can stain very easily, and those stains can stay for a long time if not treated the right way. You don't need a suede cleaner for this. White vinegar works very well.

First, take some white vinegar and pour a small amount into a clean bowl. Do not soak the whole boot in vinegar. You only need a little bit. Then take a clean soft cloth or sponge. Dip just the edge of the cloth into the vinegar. Make sure it is damp, not soaking wet.

Next, gently dab the stained areas of your suede boots. Do not rub hard. Just dab lightly and slowly. This will help lift the stain without pushing it deeper. The vinegar might make the suede look darker when it is wet, but don't worry. That is normal. It will dry and return to its normal color.

Once you have treated all the stained spots, leave the boots in a place with good air flow. Do not put them in direct sunlight or near heat. Let them dry naturally. This can take a few hours.

After the boots are dry, take your soft brush again and gently brush the spots you treated. This will bring the nap of the suede back to normal. The boots should now look cleaner, and the stains should be much lighter or even gone completely.

White vinegar is safe to use on suede in small amounts. It helps break down dirt, salt, and water stains. Just make sure to use only a small amount and never soak the suede.

You can repeat this process if the stains are still there. Just wait until the boots are fully dry before trying again. You can also use a clean sponge instead of a cloth if that feels easier for you.

• Use only white vinegar, not apple cider vinegar
• Dab gently, never rub hard
• Let the boots dry in fresh air
• Always use a soft cloth or sponge
• Do not soak the boots
• Brush again after drying to fix suede nap

Remove Water Stains With Just Water

It sounds strange, but you can actually remove water stains on suede using just water. Water stains happen when only part of the suede gets wet. This leaves dark marks or lines. But if you lightly wet the whole area evenly, the stain can go away.

Start by getting a clean sponge or cloth and dampen it with plain water. Do not soak it. It should be damp, not dripping wet. Gently rub the whole surface of the boot that has the stain. Make sure the water spreads evenly across the suede. Don't just rub the stained part. Wet the full area so it dries the same.

After that, use a dry cloth to gently pat the boot. Remove extra water without pressing too hard. Then stuff the inside of the boot with clean paper or towels. This helps the boot keep its shape while drying.

Let the boots dry in the air. Keep them away from direct heat and sunlight. Leave them for several hours, or even overnight.

Once they are fully dry, use a soft brush again. Brush the surface gently to bring back the soft texture. The water stain should be gone or much lighter.

If the stain is still visible, you can repeat this process. Just make sure the boots are dry each time before trying again.

This method works because suede looks different when only part of it is wet. But when the whole area is evenly damp and dries evenly, it goes back to looking the same all over.

• Use only clean water
• Wet the full area evenly
• Dab with a dry cloth after
• Stuff boots to keep shape
• Let air dry completely
• Use brush after drying
• Repeat if needed

Use Cornstarch for Oil or Grease

Oil stains on suede are very hard to clean. If you drop food or something greasy on your suede boots, don't panic. You can clean it using cornstarch.

Start by gently blotting the greasy spot with a dry paper towel. Do not rub it. Just press lightly to remove as much oil as possible. Then take some cornstarch and sprinkle it directly on the stained spot. Use enough to cover the full area.

Let the cornstarch sit on the stain for several hours. Even better, leave it overnight. The cornstarch will absorb the oil from the suede. It works slowly, so give it time.

After waiting, use a soft brush to gently brush off the cornstarch. You may need to repeat this process for deep stains. If the stain is still there, add more cornstarch and let it sit again.

Sometimes, people use baking soda instead of cornstarch. That also works, but cornstarch is softer and safer for suede. Always test a small spot first if you’re not sure.

If the oil stain is very fresh, this method works very well. But if the stain is old, it might take a few tries.

• Blot oil first with paper towel
• Cover with dry cornstarch
• Leave for several hours or overnight
• Brush off gently with soft brush
• Repeat if needed
• Use cornstarch not flour
• Works best on fresh stains

Steam to Loosen Dirt and Refresh

Steam can be helpful for cleaning suede because it loosens dirt and refreshes the texture. You don't need a special steamer. You can use a kettle or boil water in a pot.

Hold the boots about 6 to 8 inches above the steam. Do not let the boots touch the water or get soaking wet. Let the steam reach the suede for just a few seconds at a time.

The steam will open up the fibers and make it easier to clean the suede. After steaming, take your soft brush and gently brush the boot. You'll notice the nap becomes softer and the color looks more even.

Steam also helps with smells. If your suede boots smell bad, the steam can help remove the odor.

Do not use steam if your boots are already wet. Only use this on dry boots that need freshening.

Be careful not to burn your hands. Hold the boot safely and don't rush. After steaming and brushing, let the boots air dry again. They will look softer, cleaner, and refreshed.

• Use kettle or pot of boiling water
• Hold boots above the steam, not in it
• Brush boots right after steaming
• Helps with dirt and bad smell
• Steam only dry suede
• Be careful with heat

Keep Boots Looking Good After Cleaning

Once your boots are clean, you want to keep them that way. Suede needs regular care to stay looking nice. The best way is to store them properly and avoid wet or dirty places.

After wearing them, let them air out before putting them away. Use a soft brush to remove any light dust or dirt.

If you don't have a shoe tree, stuff them with paper so they keep their shape. Keep them in a dry, cool place. Use a cloth bag or box to protect them from dust.

You can spray them with a water-repellent spray made for suede. This is optional but helpful to stop future stains.

Never wear suede boots in heavy rain or snow. If they do get wet, let them dry slowly and brush them afterward.

Regular care helps your boots last longer and keeps them looking great.

• Brush boots lightly after each wear
• Store in cool, dry place
• Use paper to hold shape
• Keep away from moisture
• Use suede-safe spray if possible
• Avoid wet weather

Final Thoughts

Cleaning suede boots without suede cleaner is possible and easy with the right steps. You don't need fancy tools. Just soft brushes, vinegar, water, and some household items. I've used these methods on my own boots, and they really work. You can bring your old, dirty suede boots back to life with care and patience. The key is being gentle and letting each part dry fully. Follow these tips and your boots will stay looking fresh and beautiful. With a little effort, suede can last a long time and always look stylish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is it okay to use water to clean suede boots?

Yes, you can use water, but only in a small amount and very carefully. If you use too much water, suede can get damaged or lose its shape. The best way to use water is to dampen a soft cloth or sponge and gently clean the whole area around a water stain. This helps even out the color. Always let the boots air dry naturally after using water and brush them afterward to restore the texture.

Can I clean suede boots using things from my kitchen?

Yes, many common kitchen items can help clean suede boots. White vinegar works well for stains, and cornstarch is great for oil spots. You can also use a clean sponge or cloth, soft brush, and paper towels. These simple items can make a big difference when used correctly. You don't need expensive suede cleaners. Just remember to always be gentle with suede to avoid damage.

Do I need a special suede brush?

No, you don't need a special suede brush. A soft toothbrush or clean cloth works fine for cleaning. The most important thing is to be gentle. A suede brush is good to have, but if you don't have one, a soft brush from home will do the job. Always brush in one direction to keep the nap smooth and even.

Can I use vinegar on all kinds of stains?

Vinegar is best for light stains, salt marks, and water spots. It may not work well on oil or grease stains. For those, cornstarch is better. Always test vinegar on a small hidden part first if you're not sure. Don't soak the suede. Just dab a little vinegar with a cloth and let it dry completely before brushing.

Is it safe to use a hairdryer to dry suede boots?

No, it’s not a good idea. Heat from a hairdryer can dry out suede and make it stiff or cracked. The best way to dry suede is to let it air dry naturally. Keep it in a cool place with good air flow. Avoid putting it in the sun or near a heater. Always stuff the inside with paper to help keep the shape.

Can I wear my suede boots in the rain after cleaning?

It's not a good idea to wear suede boots in the rain, even after cleaning. Water can still damage suede unless it's protected with a waterproof spray made for suede. If you must wear them, use a suede-safe spray before going out. But it's best to save suede boots for dry days. Wet weather can ruin their soft feel and color.

Do I need to clean suede boots after every wear?

No, you don't need to deep clean them every time, but you should give them a light brushing after wearing. This keeps dust and dirt from building up. Regular care keeps suede looking good longer. Just a quick brush and air out the boots before putting them away. This small habit helps your boots last much longer.

Is it okay to use baking soda instead of cornstarch?

Yes, you can use baking soda if you don't have cornstarch. It also helps absorb oil stains. Just sprinkle it on the stain and let it sit for a few hours, then brush it off gently. Some people prefer cornstarch because it feels softer, but baking soda works too. Always use a soft brush and never rub hard.