How to Protect Suede Shoes During Winter

Suede shoes add elegance to any winter outfit, but their delicate texture makes them vulnerable to snow, salt, and moisture. If you want to keep your suede boots and shoes looking their best, you need the right care techniques. This guide explains how to protect suede shoes during the harsh winter months with practical steps anyone can follow.

1. Invest in High-Quality Suede Footwear

The first step to better suede shoe care is starting with well-crafted footwear. High-quality suede resists wear better and responds more predictably to cleaning products. Look for shoes that mention protective treatments or come with a suede care kit. Brands like UGG often offer pre-treated options, but it’s still important to add your own layers of protection.

2. Apply a Suede Protector Spray Before Wearing

Before stepping outside, always treat your shoes with a suede protector spray. This essential product creates a barrier that helps repel moisture, salt, and dirt.

When choosing the best suede protector, opt for sprays specifically labelled for suede or nubuck. Some popular choices include KIWI Suede & Nubuck Protector and Clarks Rain and Stain. Apply thin, even coats and allow the shoes to dry completely between applications. Reapply every few weeks or after exposure to moisture for maximum defence.

3. Brush Suede Regularly with a Suede Brush

Brushing helps maintain the soft texture of suede and lifts away dirt before it sets in. A suede brush for shoes is designed to gently restore the nap without damaging the material. For tougher spots, you can use a suede brush and eraser combo. A light brushing after every few wears keeps the surface clean and helps your suede boots maintain their luxurious look.

If you have UGG boots, investing in a UGG suede brush can make maintenance even easier, since it’s made specifically for their footwear.

4. Handle Liquid Stains with Cornmeal

Accidents happen. When liquid spills on suede, sprinkle cornmeal or talcum powder on the affected area. Let it sit overnight to absorb the moisture and any oils. This technique is often recommended when figuring out how to get oil out of suede naturally. Afterward, gently brush off the powder to reveal a cleaner surface.

5. Remove Salt and Dirt Stains Using White Vinegar

Salt from sidewalks and roads can quickly ruin suede if left untreated. To clean salt stains, mix one part white vinegar with two parts water. Lightly dab the solution onto the stain using a soft cloth. Gently wipe with the grain of the suede. After the area dries, brush it with a soft suede brush to restore its texture. These suede shoe cleaning tips can save your shoes from permanent discoloration.

If stains persist or seem stubborn, using a suede stain remover designed for winter wear can be a smart option.

6. Use a Toothbrush for Deep Cleaning and Steam Treatment

A clean toothbrush works well for detailed cleaning in tight areas. For deep-set stains, you can use steam. Hold the shoe above a steaming kettle for a few seconds to relax the fibres. Then, gently brush with a suede brush. This method can revive flattened areas, providing a great solution when you want to revamp old leather footwear.

Additionally, these habits don’t just improve your suede’s appearance—they help make your leather last through multiple seasons. Regular care reduces the chances of long-term damage, saving you from early replacements.

7. Never Use Water to Clean Suede

Suede’s porous nature makes it highly absorbent. Scientific tests have shown that suede has significantly higher water vapour permeability than finished leathers like box calf or nappa, due to its open, buffed surface.

Cleaning with water can lead to staining, warping, and permanent texture changes. Always avoid soaking suede shoes or boots. Instead, use dry brushing, special erasers, or spot cleaning methods mentioned earlier. If necessary, a suede shoe cream formulated for hydration without moisture can help freshen faded shoes.

8. Avoid Wearing Suede on Snowy or Rainy Days

Even with protective sprays, it’s best not to expose suede to heavy snow or rain since genuine suede cannot be washed. If the forecast predicts wet conditions, consider wearing waterproof boots and carrying your suede shoes to change into indoors. Using overshoes or shoe covers can also help when you must walk short distances outside.

If you ask if suede is waterproof in snow, the reality is no. Protective sprays offer limited protection, but prolonged exposure can still cause damage. It’s smarter to protect suede boots by limiting outdoor wear in slushy or wet weather.

9. Get Professional Suede Cleaning Services

Some stains, especially deep oil, salt, or set-in watermarks, may require professional treatment. If you’re located in Canada, suede shoe cleaning services are available to restore delicate footwear. Specialized cleaners often use steam, delicate solvents, and finishing products you can’t easily apply at home.

If you own UGG boots and they need a serious refresh, consider professional UGG boots cleaning in Toronto to bring them back to life safely.

FAQs About Suede Shoes and Winter

Can suede get wet?

Yes, but it can lead to staining, warping, and permanent texture damage. Always treat suede with a protector spray and avoid heavy exposure.

Is suede waterproof in snow?

No. Even the best suede shoe protector can only repel light moisture for a short time. Extended exposure to snow will damage suede.

Can you wear suede boots in the snow?

It’s not recommended. If you must, treat them with a suede shoe waterproof spray first and avoid deep snow or salt-treated areas.

Is suede good for winter?

Suede can be worn in winter if properly protected and if the conditions are dry. However, leather and treated boots are generally more reliable for heavy snow and wet conditions.

How do you protect suede shoes in winter?

Apply waterproof protectants, avoid exposure to salt and slush, clean with appropriate brushes and erasers, and seek professional cleaning when needed.

How can suede boots be protected differently from shoes?

The process of how to care for suede boots often involves more frequent brushing and deeper cleaning since boots face harsher exposure from snow, slush, and salt.

How to take care of suede shoes long-term?

Store them properly with shoe trees, use a suede stain remover for spot treatment, and freshen them occasionally with a suede refresher.

Conclusion

Winter doesn’t have to mean hiding your beautiful suede shoes in the back of the closet. With the right techniques and products, you can confidently wear and maintain suede even during the colder months. Each step is important in preserving your footwear, from applying a suede protector for shoes to investing in a suede care kit.

If your suede shoes need special attention or you’re unsure how to bring an older pair back to life, trust the experts at Love Your Leather. As one of the most trusted providers of suede shoe cleaning in Toronto, we use professional tools and techniques to remove stains, restore texture, and refresh the look of your footwear. With proper care from our team, you can make your leather last and keep your suede looking sharp through many winters ahead.