Suede Puma shoes are popular for their comfort, style and durability. However, due to their delicate material, they can become stained easily if not properly cared for. If you’ve recently purchased a pair of suede Pumas or just need to refresh your existing ones, this article will provide easy-to-follow instructions on how to clean your suede Pumas at home. We’ve also answered some of the most frequently asked questions about cleaning and caring for these shoes. So, let’s get started!
What Are Suede Pumas?
Suede Pumas are a type of footwear made with a soft, suede material. They usually come in traditional puma design—a sleek body and slender lines that make them look stylish and modern. The material is not only fashionable but also comfortable, making it popular among men and women alike.[1]
Tools
When cleaning your suede Pumas, you will need a few basic materials:
- Suede brush
- Saddle soap or other suede cleaner
- A soft cloth
- Water
- An eraser (optional)[1]
How To Clean Suede Shoes?
Set Up To Clean
Before you jump into cleaning your suede Pumas, it’s important to make sure that you have all the right equipment and supplies. Here is what you will need:
- Soft bristled brush
- Vacuum with a soft brush attachment
- Suede cleaning product
- White vinegar
- Soft cloth or sponge
- Bowl of warm water (optional)
- Protective suede spray (optional)[2]
Remove Excess Dirt And Debris
The first step to cleaning your suede shoes is to remove any surface dirt and debris. To do this, grab your soft bristled brush and gently sweep away the excess dirt. You can also use a vacuum with a soft brush attachment to get into any crevices or hard-to-reach areas.[2]
Rub Away Surface Marks
To get rid of any surface marks, grab your suede cleaning product and gently rub away the stain with a soft cloth or sponge. If you don’t have a specialty cleaning product, white vinegar also works well to remove stains and spots.[2]
Treat Stubborn Stains
If you’re dealing with tougher stains, you may need to give your shoes a deeper clean. Start by brushing away any dirt and debris with a soft bristled brush. Then, fill a bowl with warm water and mix in a few drops of suede cleaning product. Dip your cloth or sponge into the mixture and gently rub away the stain.[2]
Other Techniques For Specific Types Of Stains
Oil And Grease Stains
Oil or grease-based stains are some of the most difficult to clean from suede. You can try using a few drops of dishwashing liquid or laundry detergent on a damp cloth, then gently dabbing away the stain. Avoid rubbing in circles as this may cause discoloration on the material.
If the stain persists, you may need to use additional measures for removal. Rubbing alcohol is a good option, as it will help break down the oils and loosen the stain particles. Apply some rubbing alcohol on a cotton pad or cloth and dab at the affected area until the stains start to lift. Avoid using too much rubbing alcohol; if it gets into the suede, it may cause discoloration or texture changes.[4]
Gum Or Wax
Gum or wax stains can be tricky to remove as they tend to become lodged deeper into the suede material. The best way to tackle these types of spots is to use a combination of cold and heat.
Start by placing an ice cube on top of the affected area; this will help harden the gum and make it easier to remove. Once it has hardened, use a dull knife to scrape away the gum or wax.
Once you’ve removed as much of the stain as possible, you can move onto heat-based techniques. Use a hairdryer on low heat and gently blow over the area until all traces of the gum or wax are gone. You can also use an iron on a low setting, as long as you’re careful not to overheat the suede.[4]
Blood Stains
If your Puma suede shoes happen to get stained with blood, you’ll need to act fast and take extra precaution. Blood stains can be tricky to remove from any surface, so it’s important that you use the right cleaning products.
To start off, get a clean white cloth or sponge and blot the stain. Don’t attempt to scrub it, since this could cause the stain to spread and make it even harder to remove. After blotting, pour a small amount of lukewarm water over the stained area and allow it to soak for a few minutes before dabbing with a damp cloth.
Next, grab some hydrogen peroxide from the medicine cabinet and mix it with equal parts of warm water. Dip a soft cloth into the mixture and dab the stained area gently. Be sure to test this mixture on an inconspicuous area of your shoe first, as peroxide can sometimes cause discoloration in suede. Once you’ve tested an area, you can go ahead and apply the mixture to the stained area.
Finally, allow your shoes to air dry completely before trying any other cleaning methods. If the stain is still there after drying, you may need to take them to a professional cleaner for further treatment.[4]
What Can Household Items Clean Suede Shoes?
When tackling a dirty or stained pair of suede Pumas, it can be tempting to grab your nearest bottle of harsh chemical cleaner. But resist the urge! Instead, try some simple household items that can help you clean your shoes without damaging them.
One effective cleaning solution for lightly soiled Pumas is white vinegar and water. Mix a solution of half white vinegar and half lukewarm water in a shallow bowl, then dip an old toothbrush into the mixture. Gently scrub the affected area with the toothbrush to loosen dirt.[2]
Can Suede Get Wet?
The answer to this question is yes, suede can get wet. However, it’s important to note that the process of wet cleaning suede should only be done by a professional cleaner. Wet cleaning can damage the material if not done properly, and water can cause stains that are very difficult to remove on its own. If you do choose to wet clean your Puma suede shoes, make sure that you follow the instructions carefully and never soak them in water. If your shoes do get wet, it’s also important to allow them to dry naturally and away from direct heat sources like radiators or hairdryers.[3]
How Do You Rejuvenate Suede?
Suede can easily become dull and dirty over time due to daily wear and tear. To bring back the original luster, you will need to use a suede brush. Gently brush the shoe in one direction using soft, circular strokes until all dirt is removed. After brushing, you may also want to apply a waterproofing spray or suede rejuvenator to keep the shoes looking newer longer. To apply the protector, simply spray it onto the surface of the shoe in a thin, even layer and let it dry thoroughly before wearing.[3]
Can You Wash Suede?
Yes, you can wash suede shoes! The key is to clean them with the right materials and technique. The first step is to brush the entire shoe with a soft, dry brush in order to remove any dirt or debris. After brushing, use a damp cloth to wipe down the surface of the shoe. Note that water can damage suede, so it’s best to use a slightly damp cloth.
Once the shoe has been wiped down, you can move on to spot cleaning. For tougher stains, make a mixture of equal parts white vinegar and water and apply it directly to the affected area with a cotton swab. Alternatively, you can use a suede eraser to remove stubborn spots.[3]
What Is The Best Suede Cleaning Kit?
When it comes to cleaning your Suede Pumas, the best kit is one that contains a gentle brush (one with soft bristles), an eraser, and a spray-on suede cleaner. This combination of tools is essential for removing dirt, scuffs, and water spots from suede without damaging the material.[4]
How Do You Clean Light-Colored Suede?
If you’ve got light-colored suede Puma kicks, you’ll need to take extra caution when cleaning them. To start, use a soft brush – like an old toothbrush or nailbrush – and gently brush off any dirt or debris from the shoes. For tougher marks, try using a suede eraser that’s designed to remove unwanted marks from suede materials.
To finish, you can also use a specialized protector spray to protect your shoes against future dirt and stains. Make sure to test the product beforehand on an inconspicuous part of the shoe first!
Once you’ve sprayed it on, let it dry completely before wearing your shoes.
Taking the time to clean your light-colored suede Pumas at home can help keep them looking fresh and new, even after years of wear. With these tips in mind, you’ll be able to keep your kicks looking great![1]
How Do You Moisturize Suede?
Moisturizing suede is an important step in maintaining the strength and suppleness of the material. To moisturize, use a specialized leather cream or balm specifically designed for suede. Before using any type of product on your suede Pumas, test it in an inconspicuous spot to make sure it won’t cause discoloration or damage.
To moisturize:
- Rub the cream or balm into the material using a soft cloth or sponge.
- Work it in until the suede is evenly coated. Wipe off any excess product that might have accumulated on the surface.
- Allow your Pumas to dry naturally in a well-ventilated area.
- After they have dried, brush the suede with a soft bristled brush to restore its original texture.[1]
Why Is Suede Hard To Clean?
Suede is an incredibly delicate fabric. It’s made from leather, which can be easily damaged if exposed to too much water or the wrong type of cleaning product. This means that cleaning suede at home without ruining its texture and colour can be tricky.
The problem is further compounded by the fact that Pumas are usually made with a combination of suede and nylon. Nylon is more robust than suede, but it still needs to be treated with care when cleaning.[2]
Tips For Cleaning Stains On Suede
If you’re looking to remove a stain from your suede Pumas, there are several tips and tricks you can use.
First, start by brushing the stain with a suede brush. This should help to loosen any dirt particles or debris that have become lodged in the fibers of the fabric. Use gentle strokes, starting from the outside of the stain and working your way inward.
If brushing doesn’t remove the stain, you can try using a suede eraser to help to break it down. Rub the eraser over the spot in gentle circles. Don’t press too hard as this could damage the suede finish.
To tackle tougher stains, you can mix a cleaning solution of one part white vinegar and two parts water. Dip a cloth into the solution and gently blot the stain. Do not rub the fabric or scrub it as this could damage the fabric fibers.
Finally, after removing any dirt or debris, let your shoes dry naturally before brushing them again. This will help to restore the nap of the suede and make them look as good as new![1]
FAQ
How Do You Clean Suede Shoes At Home?
Cleaning suede shoes at home requires a few simple steps to keep your Pumas looking like new. First, start by brushing away any dirt or debris with a soft-bristled brush before cleaning the surface with a dry sponge. To remove tough stains and give your suede shoes an extra sparkle, try using a dry suede cleaning sponge or eraser. For extra protection, you may also want to apply a water and stain repellent spray.
Can You Machine Wash Puma Suede?
Unfortunately, machine washing Puma suede shoes is not recommended as it can damage the material. Instead, handwashing or spot cleaning with a damp cloth are the best ways to keep your sneakers looking clean and fresh.
How Do You Clean African Pumas?
African Pumas, which have a unique patterned leather upper, can be difficult to clean. To keep your sneakers looking their best, start by using a dry brush or cloth to remove dirt and debris. Then use a suede cleaner or eraser for tougher stains and finally apply a water-repellent spray for extra protection. If you don’t have any of these products, a damp cloth is an effective way to spot clean your African Pumas.
What Household Product Cleans Suede?
When cleaning suede shoes, it’s best to use a dedicated suede cleaner or eraser. However, if you don’t have one of these products, there are some common household items that can be used as an alternative. Baking soda is a great option for removing dirt and oil from the surface of your shoes, while white vinegar or rubbing alcohol can target tough stains. For a deeper clean, try using a soft brush and warm water to create an effective cleaning solution.
Do Pumas Like Water?
Pumas are not water-resistant, so it’s best to avoid getting them wet. If your Puma sneakers do get wet, make sure to dry them off with a soft cloth and air-dry them in a cool place away from direct sunlight. To protect your suede shoes from future water damage, you may want to apply a water-repellent spray. This will help keep your Pumas looking like new for longer.
What Are Pumas Afraid Of?
Pumas are not afraid of people, but they can be shy and may flee when startled. To stay safe if you encounter a puma in the wild, make sure to stay calm and slowly back away. Do not attempt to approach or corner the animal as this could lead to an unpredictable reaction. Pumas are also very sensitive to loud noises, so it’s best to avoid making too much noise while in their presence.
What Is The Enemy Of A Puma?
The natural enemies of a puma are wolves and bears, but humans also pose a threat to the species.
Habitat fragmentation, poaching, and hunting all threaten the survival of the puma population. It is important to be aware of our impact on their habitats and work towards conserving their homes in order to ensure the future of these majestic animals.
Are Pumas Rare?
Yes, pumas are considered to be a rare species due to their solitary nature and wide-ranging habitats. As of 2020, there were only an estimated 30,000 pumas left in the wild. It is important to protect their habitats and conserve their populations in order to ensure that these beautiful animals survive for future generations.
Are Pumas Harmful?
No, pumas are generally not considered to be harmful animals. They are usually solitary and rarely attack humans or other animals unless provoked. In fact, their presence can often help control some species of smaller animals such as rodents and rabbits that could otherwise cause damage to crops or property if left unchecked. It is important to use caution when encountering these animals and to not attempt to approach or corner them as this could lead to unpredictable reactions.
Is Puma A Cat Or Lion?
The puma is a species of large cat, also known as the cougar or mountain lion. The puma is a solitary hunter and can be found in many parts of North and South America. They are typically much smaller than lions, with an average weight of about 120 pounds for males and 80 pounds for females. Pumas are generally shy and will avoid humans, but can be dangerous if provoked. It is important to keep a safe distance when encountering these animals in the wild.
Useful Video: How To Clean Your Suede Sneakers | The BEST Way!
Conclusion
Cleaning suede Pumas at home is easy! With the right materials, a few simple steps, and some patience, you can keep your Pumas looking great for years to come. If ever in doubt about how to clean your shoes or what products to use, always refer back to this guide for step-by-step instructions and helpful tips. With the right approach, you can keep your Pumas looking like new for many years to come. Thanks for reading!
Happy cleaning!
References
- https://us.puma.com/us/en/help/faq/product-care
- https://www.wikihow.com/Clean-Pumas
- https://www.ehow.com/how_4856176_clean-puma-shoes.html
- https://www.sneakerlab.com/blogs/how-to/how-to-clean-suede-puma-shoes-with-sneaker-cleaner
