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Suede Boots & Shoes
Keeping your footwear fresh and fabulous
Essential Maintenance Tips for Suede Shoes
New suede shoes and boots? Lucky you! Suede is a timeless and stylish material, and we love the finish that suede shoes and boots can give to any outfit. We’ve consulted our experts here at Penelope Chilvers to provide you with five simple maintenance tips that you can apply to keep your suede boots looking fresh, fabulous, and ready to make a statement!
1. Invest in a quality suede brush.
A suede brush is an essential tool for maintaining suede shoes and boots. We recommend using it regularly to gently brush off any dirt, dust, and surface stains that your boots or shoes may have picked up. Brushing helps to restore the suede's texture and removes any superficial marks, giving your shoes a refreshed appearance with each brush. Remember to brush in the direction of the suede grain to avoid damaging the fibres and ensure that the mud has fully fried before attempting to brush this off.
2. Protect your suede boots and shoes with a protector spray.
Suede fabric looks fantastic and feels luxurious, but it can be susceptible to water damage, as moisture can cause suede boots to lose shape and develop unsightly water spots. Luckily, help is at hand! Applying a suede protector designed specifically for suede can help to protect your suede shoes and boots and give you peace of mind that your boots are protected. The waterproof spray acts as a barrier, repelling water and helping to maintain the suede's integrity. Before using a suede protector, we’d recommend testing it on a small, inconspicuous area to ensure it does not alter the colour or texture of your shoes. Be sure to cover the entire shoe surface evenly, allowing it to dry thoroughly before wearing!
3. Accidents happen, but handle stains with care!
Accidental spills and stains are inevitable, but taking prompt action can save your suede boots from permanent damage.
The most effective approach is to begin by simply blotting the stain gently with a clean cloth or paper towel, avoiding excessive rubbing that might spread the stain. For dry stains or scuff marks, use a suede eraser or a pencil eraser to gently rub the affected area. Stubborn stains (such as oil or red wine) may require professional cleaning, so consult a suede specialist should you need to.
4. Avoid rain wherever possible
While suede shoes can make a bold fashion statement, it's best to avoid wearing them in rainy or snowy conditions. Water can easily penetrate the suede, causing permanent damage. Chose alternative footwear options or apply an extra layer of protection, such as rubber overshoes, to shield your suede shoes from moisture during unpredictable weather.We know the weather is not that easy to predict, so if your suede boots do get wet, allow them to dry naturally. Resist the temptation to use heaters or hairdryers to speed up the drying process as this could lead to water marks. Instead, stuff the shoes with absorbent materials like newspaper or shoe trees to help maintain their shape and absorb moisture. Leave them in a well-ventilated area at room temperature and allow them to dry naturally. Once dry, use a suede brush to restore the texture and remove any water marks. We would recommend re-treating the suede with a protector spray to help re-protect them for your next outing! If your suede shoes come into contact with grit during winter months, they may develop salt marks. These are easily fixed by adding a small amount of washing-up liquid (be sure to choose one that does not contact bleach,) to a damp cloth and gently rubbing the salt mark away. Again, we’d recommend re-protecting your shoes before your next wear.
5. Rotate your shoes
Who doesn’t love the feeling of getting a new pair of shoes and boots? We wouldn’t blame you for wanting to wear your new suede boots every day, however bear in mind that frequent wear can cause suede shoes to lose their shape and become worn out more quickly. To extend your love affair and prolong the life of your suede boots, rotate them with other pairs in your collection. Allowing shoes to rest between wears helps them recover from moisture and maintain their form, ensuring you can enjoy them for years to come. Plus – we have New Collections arriving all the time, so this is the perfect excuse to buy another pair of Penelope Chilvers boots or shoes!
Proper maintenance is key to preserving the beauty and longevity of your suede boots and shoes. By following these essential tips, including regular brushing, protecting from stains and water, and allowing for proper drying and resting periods, you can keep your suede shoes looking fresh, fabulous, and ready to complement any outfit!
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