Cleaning Wet Shoes

• Although cows, pigs and goats don't seem to mind rain and snow, water is an enemy of suede shoes. If your shoes become wet, grab an old rag and blot up as much moisture as you can. Let the shoes air dry before you determine whether you need to remove a stain or raise the nap of a flat spot.
  
  

Cleaning Dirty Shoes

• Take action right away if you spill something on your shoes. Remove as much of the spill as possible, and let the shoes dry before working further on any stains. If you have a tough stain, blast your shoes with steam from a hot iron, but be careful not to saturate them. Then rub with a washcloth to remove the dirt. For really difficult stains, purchase a special suede shoe cleaner. Generally you brush your shoes with the plastic brush that comes with the cleaner to loosen the dirt. Spray a little of the cleaner in an inconspicuous area to check for colorfastness. Then lightly and evenly spray the cleaner onto your shoes. Remove the dirt with a clean rag.
  
  

Raising the Nap

• Several methods effectively restore the nap of suede. When the shoes are dry, try one of the following techniques: (1) gently rub them with an old washcloth; (2) use a clean pencil eraser and rub it over the area; (3) use a special wire brush that is sold for suede shoes. Brush your shoes lightly back and forth to restore the texture; and (4) rough up the surface with sandpaper.
  
  

Protecting Your Shoes

• Before you wear your shoes for the first time, protect them with one of the specialty products sold at shoe stores. Some products only repel water, while others also claim to repel dirt. Directions for applying these products vary, but in general you spray a fine mist onto your shoes from a distance of about 8 to 10 inches. Let the product dry and repeat. Protect your shoes every time you clean them to keep them looking new.