Quick answer: Brush suede lightly in one direction with a suede brush, remove small marks with a suede eraser, and never use cream or polish on it. If the shoes get wet, stuff them with paper and let them dry at room temperature, away from heaters. Keep them in a cool, dry place with shoe trees inside.
Why does suede need different care from smooth leather?
Suede has a soft, napped surface. The models below are made from calf suede. Unlike smooth calf leather, suede should not be treated with ordinary shoe cream or polish. It is cared for with a brush and an eraser instead. The advice below follows our shoe care page, with a few general tips added.
How do you look after suede shoes day to day?
Use a shoehorn, so the back of the heel is not crushed. When you see dust, brush the shoes lightly in one direction with a suede brush.
After wearing, put a wooden shoe tree inside. It absorbs moisture and keeps the shape of the shoe. Try not to wear the same pair every day. Let it rest, so the leather can dry.
Should you protect suede before wearing it?
You can. A suede protector spray, applied before the first wear, helps against water and stains. Test any new product on a small, hidden spot first. A spray does not replace care, and suede still needs attention in the rain. On rainy days, choose another pair.
How do you remove marks and stains from suede?
For small surface marks, try a suede eraser gently. Do not use cream or polish. Avoid cleaners unless their instructions say they are suitable for suede.
If the stain is larger, or you are not sure what caused it, send a photo to info@zerbayshoes.com. We will find the right care together.
What should you do if suede shoes get wet?
Stuff the shoes with paper and let them dry at room temperature. Do not use a radiator, a heater or a hairdryer, because the leather can harden and crack. When they are completely dry, brush them lightly in one direction. If a leather sole gets wet, lay the shoe on its side and let it dry at room temperature.
How should you store suede shoes?
Store them in a cool, dry place, out of direct sunlight. Put shoe trees inside. If you will not wear them for a while, keep them in their box or in a cloth bag. Do not store them in plastic bags, because leather needs to breathe.
What should you avoid?
Do not put cream or polish on suede. Do not dry wet shoes with a radiator, a heater or a hairdryer. Do not store suede shoes in plastic bags. Do not try a new product on the whole shoe before testing a hidden spot.
Which Zerbay styles are made of suede?
Several of our styles are made of calf suede. Construction and sole differ by model, and each product page lists the leather, the sole and the construction.
Hekla is a tassel loafer in eight colours. Neblina is a kiltie single monk strap in patterned suede, in green, navy and tan. Orizaba is a double monk strap in black, brown and cream-coloured suede. Hekla, Neblina and Orizaba are Blake-stitched.
Skollis is a cap-toe oxford in green and tan. Suthep is a penny loafer. Rainier is a chukka boot. Skollis, Suthep and Rainier are cemented.
Rubber or EVA soles can be wiped with a damp cloth. Keep the cloth off the suede.
For the colder months, see our Autumn collection.
Frequently asked questions
Can you wear suede shoes in the rain?
It is best not to. A suede protector spray helps against water and stains, but suede still needs care in the rain. If your shoes get wet, stuff them with paper and dry them at room temperature, away from heat.
Can you use shoe cream or polish on suede?
No. Cream and polish are for smooth calf leather. For suede, use a suede brush for dust and a suede eraser for small marks.
How do you get a stain out of suede?
For small surface marks, try a suede eraser gently. For a larger stain, or one you cannot identify, email a photo to info@zerbayshoes.com before you try anything else.
Do you need a suede protector spray?
It is optional. If you use one, apply it before the first wear and test it on a hidden spot first.
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