How to Clean suede New Balance shoes can be a bit tricky, as suede is a delicate material that can be easily damaged by water and harsh cleaning products. However, with the right techniques and tools, it is possible to keep your suede shoes looking like new.
Here are some steps on how to clean suede New Balance shoes:
Brush Away Dirt and Debris – Use a soft-bristled brush or suede eraser to remove any dirt or debris from the surface of the shoe.
Spot Clean Stains – Use a suede cleaning solution or a mixture of water and white vinegar to spot clean any stains on the shoe. Apply the solution with a soft cloth, being careful not to saturate the suede.
Dry the Shoe – Let the shoe dry naturally, away from heat sources. Avoid using a hair dryer or any other direct heat source, as this can damage the suede.
Revive the Nap – Once the shoe is dry, use a soft-bristled brush or a suede eraser to revive the nap of the suede. This will help to restore the shoe’s original texture and appearance.
Protect the Suede – Apply a suede protector spray to the shoe to help repel water and stains. This will help to keep your shoes looking like new for longer.
It’s important to note that these steps are for general cleaning, if there is a specific stain or problem with the shoe it’s better to consult with a professional cleaner or the manufacturer’s guidelines.
How To Clean Suede New Balance Shoes
Cleaning suede New Balance shoes requires special care to avoid damaging the delicate material. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you clean them effectively:
Materials you’ll need:
1. Soft-bristled brush (suede brush or a toothbrush)
2. Clean, dry cloth or microfiber towel
3. White vinegar or rubbing alcohol (optional)
4. Suede protector spray (optional)
Step-by-step cleaning process:
Remove the laces: Take out the laces from your New Balance shoes. This will make it easier to clean the entire surface of the shoe.
Brush off loose dirt: Use a soft-bristled brush to gently remove any loose dirt, dust, or debris from the suede. Brush in one direction to avoid damaging the nap (the fine fibers on the surface of the suede).
Spot clean stains: For small stains or scuffs, you can use a clean, dry cloth or a microfiber towel to gently rub the affected area. If this doesn’t work, you can try using a mixture of equal parts white vinegar (or rubbing alcohol) and water. Dampen a clean cloth with the solution and gently blot the stain, then let it air dry.
Address stubborn stains: For more stubborn stains, consider using a suede cleaner specifically designed for suede materials. Apply a small amount of the cleaner to a clean cloth and gently rub the stained area. Follow the product’s instructions and make sure to test it on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure it won’t damage the suede.
Let them air dry: After spot cleaning, allow your New Balance shoes to air dry naturally. Avoid placing them in direct sunlight or using a heat source, as this can cause the suede to shrink or become discolored.
Restore the nap: Once the shoes are dry, use the soft-bristled brush to restore the nap of the suede. Gently brush the surface in one direction to fluff up the fibers.
Apply suede protector (optional): To protect your cleaned suede New Balance shoes from future stains and water damage, consider using a suede protector spray. Follow the product’s instructions and apply the spray evenly over the entire surface of the shoes. Allow them to dry completely before wearing.
Manage the Materials First
Managing the materials first is an important step in the cleaning process, as it helps to ensure that the cleaning process is as efficient and effective as possible. This can include:
Identifying the Materials
Before cleaning, it is important to identify the materials used in the shoe, as different materials will require different cleaning methods. Suede shoes, for example, will require a different cleaning method than leather shoes.
Removing Any Dirt or Debris
Before cleaning, use a soft-bristled brush or a damp cloth to remove any dirt or debris from the surface of the shoe. This will help to prevent any dirt or debris from getting embedded deeper into the material during the cleaning process.
Testing the Cleaning Solution
Before using any cleaning solutions on the shoe, it is important to test the solution on a small, inconspicuous area of the shoe to ensure that it does not cause any damage or discoloration.
Protecting the Materials
After cleaning, it is important to protect the materials by applying a protectant or sealant that will help to repel water and stains.
By managing the materials first, you will be better equipped to clean your shoes effectively and safely, helping to prolong the life of your shoes.
Take the Laces Out and Start the Process
Taking the laces out of the shoes before starting the cleaning process can be an effective way to ensure that the entire shoe is thoroughly cleaned. Here are some steps to follow:
Remove the Laces
Carefully remove the laces from the shoes and set them aside.
Brush the Inside of the Shoe
Use a soft-bristled brush or a damp cloth to brush the inside of the shoe, removing any dirt or debris.
Clean the Sole
Use a damp cloth or a cleaning solution specifically for the sole of the shoe to clean the sole.
Clean the Upper
Use a cleaning solution or a mixture of water and mild detergent to clean the upper of the shoe. Use a soft cloth or brush to gently scrub the shoe, paying close attention to any stains or marks.
Dry the Shoe
Stuff the shoe with newspaper or a towel to help it hold its shape and allow it to dry naturally.
Clean the Laces
Clean the laces separately, use a damp cloth or a cleaning solution to wipe down the laces.
Re-lace the Shoes
Once the shoes are dry and the laces are clean, re-lace the shoes and tie them properly.
By taking the laces out before starting the cleaning process, you will be able to clean the entire shoe more effectively, including the inside of the shoe, the laces and the sole.
Strike the Shoes Against Each Other to Drive the Dirt
Striking the shoes against each other is a technique that can be used to drive out dirt and debris from the shoes. Here are the steps to follow:
Brush the Shoes
Use a soft-bristled brush or a suede eraser to remove any loose dirt or debris from the surface of the shoes.
Hold the Shoes by the Heel
Hold one shoe by the heel in each hand, with the toes pointing towards each other.
Strike the Shoes Together
Gently strike the toes of the shoes together, making sure to hold the shoes securely by the heel.
Rotate the Shoes
Rotate the shoes and repeat the striking process, making sure to cover all areas of the shoes.
Brush the Shoes Again
Use the soft-bristled brush or suede eraser to brush the shoes again, to remove any remaining dirt or debris.
Clean the Shoes
Use a cleaning solution or a mixture of water and mild detergent to clean the shoes, paying special attention to any stains or marks.
Dry the Shoes
Stuff the shoes with newspaper or a towel to help them hold their shape and allow them to dry naturally.
This technique can be useful for removing dirt and debris from shoes, but it’s not recommended for all materials, specially for suede shoes, and should be done with caution as it could cause damage to the shoes if done too aggressively.
Pour Some Water Drops on the Selected Portions
Pouring water drops on specific portions of a shoe can be an effective way to clean certain areas of the shoe that are particularly dirty or stained. Here are some steps to follow:
Identify the Areas
Identify the areas of the shoe that require cleaning, such as stains or scuffs.
Brush the Shoe
Use a soft-bristled brush or a suede eraser to remove any loose dirt or debris from the surface of the shoe.
Apply Water Drops
Using a dropper or a small cup, apply a few drops of water to the areas of the shoe that require cleaning.
Gently Rub the Areas
Using a soft cloth or a suede brush, gently rub the areas of the shoe where the water drops were applied to help lift the dirt and stains.
Blot the Areas
Use a clean, dry cloth to blot the areas of the shoe to remove any excess water.
Allow the Shoes to Dry
Stuff the shoes with newspaper or a towel to help them hold their shape and allow them to dry naturally.
It’s important to note that, this method is not suitable for all materials, specially for suede shoes, as water can damage suede and cause discoloration.
Additionally, it’s important to use small amount of water and not to saturate the shoe, and to make sure the shoe is completely dry before using it again.
Brush the Mid and Out Soles with a Bit Pressure
Brushing the midsole and outsole of a shoe with a bit of pressure can be an effective way to clean these areas and remove dirt and debris. Here are some steps to follow:
Brush the Shoe
Use a soft-bristled brush or a damp cloth to remove any loose dirt or debris from the surface of the shoe.
Focus on the Midsole and Outsole
Hold the shoe securely, and use a stiff-bristled brush or a toothbrush to focus on cleaning the midsole and outsole of the shoe. Apply a moderate amount of pressure while brushing these areas, to help remove dirt and debris that may be ground into the grooves of the sole.
Clean the Soles
Use a cleaning solution or a mixture of water and mild detergent to clean the soles of the shoe, paying special attention to any stains or marks.
Dry the Shoe
Stuff the shoe with newspaper or a towel to help it hold its shape and allow it to dry naturally.
It’s important to note that, this method is not suitable for all materials, specially for suede shoes, as it could cause damage to the shoes if done too aggressively.
Additionally, it’s important to use appropriate cleaning solution, and to make sure the shoe is completely dry before using it again.
Dry the Shoes Well
Drying shoes thoroughly after cleaning is an important step in the process to ensure that the shoes are not only clean but also in good condition. Here are some steps to follow to dry shoes properly:
Stuff the shoes: Stuff the shoes with newspaper or a towel to help them hold their shape and absorb any excess moisture.
Allow Them to Dry Naturally
Place the shoes in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight or heat sources, to allow them to dry naturally. This can take several hours or even a day, depending on the humidity and temperature.
Check the Shoes
Check the shoes periodically to make sure they are drying evenly, and to remove any excess moisture or newspaper/towels.
Repeat the Process if Needed
If the shoes are still damp after the first round of drying, repeat the process until they are completely dry.
Condition the Suede
Once the shoes are dry, you can use a suede conditioner to help restore the nap and protect the suede.
Store them Properly
Once the shoes are completely dry and conditioned, store them in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight.
It’s important to note that, Improper drying can lead to mold, odors, and damage to the shoes, specially for suede shoes, so it’s important to dry them properly to ensure they are in good condition.
(FAQs)
Cleaning suede New Balance shoes requires some care and attention to maintain their appearance and prolong their lifespan. Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) on how to clean suede New Balance shoes:
Q: Can I clean my suede New Balance shoes with water?
A: While you can use water to clean suede shoes, it’s essential to be cautious as excessive water can damage the suede and leave water stains. Instead, use a damp cloth or sponge with a small amount of water to gently clean the surface.
Q: How do I remove stains from my suede New Balance shoes?
A: To remove stains from suede shoes, use a suede brush or a soft toothbrush to brush the stained area gently. You can also try using a suede eraser to lift the stain. For tougher stains, mix equal parts white vinegar and water, dab a cloth into the solution, and blot the stain. Let it dry naturally.
Q: Can I use regular soap or detergent to clean suede New Balance shoes?
A: It’s best to avoid regular soap or detergent, as they can be too harsh on suede. Instead, use a specialized suede cleaner or a mild soap specifically designed for suede cleaning.
Q: How often should I clean my suede New Balance shoes?
A: The frequency of cleaning depends on how often you wear the shoes and the conditions you expose them to. As a general guideline, clean them when you notice stains, dirt buildup, or a change in appearance.
Q: Can I put my suede New Balance shoes in the washing machine?
A: It’s not recommended to put suede shoes in the washing machine, as it can lead to deformation and damage. Suede is delicate and requires a more gentle cleaning method.
Q: How do I dry my suede New Balance shoes after cleaning?
A: After cleaning, stuff your shoes with paper towels or shoe trees to help maintain their shape and absorb excess moisture. Avoid direct heat sources like sunlight, heaters, or hair dryers, as they can cause the suede to shrink or crack. Let the shoes dry naturally at room temperature.
Q: How can I protect my suede New Balance shoes from future stains?
A: You can apply a suede protector spray to your shoes to create a protective barrier against stains and water. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using the spray.
Q: Should I brush my suede New Balance shoes regularly?
A: Yes, regular brushing with a suede brush or soft toothbrush is essential to keep the suede looking clean and to remove dirt and dust. Brush in one direction to maintain the suede’s texture.
Q: Can I use a steam cleaner to clean my suede New Balance shoes?
A: It’s best to avoid steam cleaners, as they can saturate the suede with water and cause damage. Stick to the gentle cleaning methods mentioned earlier.
Conclusion
Cleaning suede New Balance shoes can be a bit tricky, but with the right methods and materials, it can be done effectively.
When cleaning suede shoes, it’s important to use a soft-bristled brush or a suede eraser to remove any loose dirt or debris from the surface of the shoe.
Also, avoid using water, as it can damage the suede and cause discoloration. Instead, use a suede cleaner or a mixture of baking soda and corn starch to clean the shoes.
Place the shoes in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight or heat sources, to allow them to dry naturally. Once the shoes are dry, you can use a suede conditioner to help restore the nap and protect the suede.
Following these guidelines can help you clean your suede shoes effectively and keep them in good condition.
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