How to get rid of water stains off of Suede Shoes?
Question:My boyfriend has a nice pair of suede shoes but after wearing them for a month the brown turned black (dirty looking) and we found out it was due to them getting wet. What is the best way to clean them and get the brown back? Also if he buys another pair, if we spray with a leather protector will this mean the water stains will not happen again?
Thanks for your help.
Answers:
A solution of white vinegar and water sponged on and wiped off works for salt marks on suede, so that may work in this instance as well. Try proportions of half water / half white vinegar. It's worth a try since it won't damage the suede. Note, do not use leather protector on suede - get a specially made suede protector which should be available most places that shoes and/or shoe polish is sold. That may not entirely eliminate the problem next time, but should certainly help.
Try roughing up the nap with a stiff bristle brush like a fingernail cleaning brush. It will lighten the nap a little. Turning black means they were probably soaked back into the hide.
Yes, whenever you buy suede shoes I suggest you either not wear them on rainy days, same goes with any cloth shoes!, or make sure you protect them with a good leather or suede protector.
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