Suede Shoes

Suede is an extremely delicate napped leather, characterized by a soft and velvety surface. It requires careful maintenance because it easily absorbs dirt, water, and grease.

Necessary materials

• Suede brush (brass bristles and/or crepe rubber)
• Cleaning eraser for suede
• Specific cleaner for suede
• Microfiber cloth
• Waterproofing spray

Complete procedure

1. Removal of dust and surface dirt

Before any intervention, make sure the shoe is completely dry. Use a specific brush and always brush in the same direction to lift the nap and remove dust, dirt, and surface residues.

2. Treatment of dry stains

For black marks, light halos, and surface stains, use a suede eraser. Rub gently without applying excessive pressure until the stain disappears.

3. Cleaning deeper stains

Apply a small amount of specific cleaner on a soft brush or clean cloth. Work the affected area with gentle, even movements, avoiding soaking the material.

4. Drying

Let dry naturally in a ventilated area. Insert absorbent paper inside to maintain the shoe’s shape. Avoid direct sunlight, radiators, and heat sources.

5. Nap restoration

Once dry, brush the suede again to lift the fibers and restore the original appearance.

6. Final protection

Apply a waterproofing spray from about 20-30 cm away with light, even passes.

Mistakes to avoid

• Excessive use of water.
• Use of harsh household soaps.
• Drying with a hairdryer or radiators.
• Vigorous rubbing on stains.

 Smooth Leather Shoes

Smooth leather needs to be cleaned, nourished, and protected to maintain elasticity, shine, and durability over time.

Necessary materials

• Microfiber cloth
• Neutral soap
• Soft brush
• Nourishing cream for leather
• Polish (if necessary)

Complete procedure

1. Initial dusting

Remove dust and surface dirt with a soft brush or dry cloth.

2. Cleaning

Slightly dampen a cloth with warm water and a minimal amount of neutral soap. Gently wipe the entire surface without saturating the leather.

3. Residue removal

Use a second slightly damp cloth to remove any detergent residue.

4. Drying

Let dry naturally for at least 30-60 minutes.

5. Leather nourishment

Apply a nourishing cream with circular motions. The cream penetrates the pores of the leather, keeping it soft and preventing cracking.

6. Polishing

After about 10 minutes, polish with a soft cloth or polishing brush to achieve an even finish.

Mistakes to avoid

• Use of alcohol or solvents.
• Excessive amount of water.
• Application of non-specific creams.
• Polishing on still damp leather.

 Nubuck shoes

Nubuck is a slightly smoothed full-grain leather. Although it resembles suede, it is generally more refined and delicate.

Necessary materials

• Nubuck brush
• Specific eraser
• Nubuck detergent
• Color revitalizing spray
• Waterproofing product

Complete procedure

1. Preliminary brushing

Brush gently to remove dust and surface dirt, keeping the fiber direction uniform.

2. Stain removal

Use a specific eraser on affected areas with light, controlled movements.

3. Deep cleaning

Apply the dedicated detergent with a brush or cloth. Avoid soaking the surface.

4. Natural drying

Leave to dry in a ventilated place, maintaining the shoe’s shape with absorbent paper.

5. Revive the material

After drying, brush again and, if necessary, apply a revitalizing spray to even out the color.

6. Protection

Apply a specific waterproofing product for nubuck.

Mistakes to avoid

• Use of creams for smooth leather.
• Washing under running water.
• Use of brushes that are too hard.
• Artificial drying.

 Gym Shoes (Mesh, Fabric, and Technical Materials)

Sports shoes accumulate dust, mud, sweat, and bacteria. Proper cleaning preserves materials, adhesives, and cushioning.

Necessary materials

• Soft brush
• Neutral soap
• Lukewarm water
• Microfiber cloth
• Specific sneaker detergent (optional)

Complete procedure

1. Preparation

Remove laces and insoles. Clean these elements separately.

2. Removal of coarse dirt

Use a dry brush to remove dirt, dust, and debris.

3. Upper washing

Prepare a solution with lukewarm water and neutral soap. Use a soft brush making circular motions on dirty areas.

4. Sole cleaning

For the sole, use a slightly stiffer brush, focusing on the grooves.

5. Detergent removal

Wipe with a well-wrung damp cloth to remove soap residues.

6. Drying

Insert absorbent paper inside and leave to air dry for 24 hours.

7. Reassembly

When the shoe is completely dry, reinsert the insole and laces.

Mistakes to avoid

• Frequent washing machine use.
• Water that is too hot.
• Bleach or harsh detergents.
• Tumble dryer.
• Direct exposure to the sun for many hours.

Professional advice

For all types of shoes, preventive maintenance is much more effective than extraordinary cleaning. Regular brushing, the use of shoe trees, and periodic application of protective products significantly extend the life of the footwear, maintaining its appearance, comfort, and value over time.