How to Clean and Care for Faux Suede Flats

About ADAMUMU shoes: our suede-look styles are made with faux (synthetic) suede, not animal leather. For these, gentle care is best: brush off dust with a soft dry brush, spot-clean marks with a barely damp cloth, and let the pair air-dry away from heat. Always follow the care label on your pair.

Faux suede has a soft, velvety finish that looks beautiful on flats, and it has a reputation for being fussy. It does need a little more attention than a smooth surface, but the routine is simple. This guide covers general care for faux suede and similar napped finishes. Always check the care label that comes with your own pair, as individual products can differ.

Start with the right tools

You do not need a large kit. A few inexpensive items go a long way:

• A soft faux suede brush, ideally with both brass-free bristles and a rubber side.
• A faux suede eraser or a clean white pencil eraser for marks.
• A clean, dry microfibre cloth.
• Shoe trees or acid-free paper to hold the shape.
• A protective spray made for faux suede, used according to its instructions.

Protect before you wear

Prevention is easier than cleanup. Before the first wear, apply a protector spray made for faux suede in a ventilated place, following the label. Test it on a hidden spot first, as some sprays can change the colour slightly. Reapply every few months if you wear the pair regularly.

Brush after each wear

Use the brush gently, moving in one direction, to lift dust and keep the surface even. This takes only a minute and prevents dirt from settling into the finish. Do not scrub hard, which can wear the surface unevenly.

Removing everyday marks

For scuffs and small marks, rub the area lightly with a faux suede eraser, then brush the area to raise the nap again. For shiny spots, a gentle brushing often helps restore the texture.

If it gets wet

1. Blot, never rub, with a dry cloth to take up moisture.
2. Stuff the shoes with paper or use shoe trees to hold their shape.
3. Dry them at room temperature, away from radiators, hair dryers and direct sun. Heat can stiffen and shrink the surface.
4. Once fully dry, brush the nap gently to bring it back.

Dealing with stains

Act quickly. Blot liquid stains straight away. For dried mud, let it dry completely, then brush it off. For oil, sprinkle a small amount of cornstarch on the mark, leave it for several hours, and brush away. If the stain is stubborn or the pair is valuable to you, a professional cleaner is the safest choice. Avoid soaking faux suede or using household cleaners.

Storage

• Keep pairs in a cool, dry place with some airflow.
• Use a breathable bag, not a sealed plastic one, to avoid trapped moisture.
• Do not stack heavy items on the shoes.
• Store them clean, since dirt left on over time is harder to remove.

Wearing tips that help

Check the forecast. Light rain is not the end of the world if you protected the pair, but heavy rain and puddles are best avoided. Rotating between pairs gives each one a day to rest, which extends its life.

Care for other finishes

Many flats have smoother finishes that need only a quick wipe with a soft damp cloth and air drying. Browse our flat loafers and ballet flats to see the range of looks available. And if you are buying a new pair, the right fit also helps shoes last longer, so check our size chart before ordering.

A simple monthly routine

• Brush the whole pair and check seams and edges for dirt.
• Spot clean any marks with an eraser, then brush again.
• Check the soles and heels for wear, and have them repaired before they get too thin.
• Reapply a protector if you wear the pair often.
• Refresh the stuffing in the toes so the shape stays smooth.

Fifteen minutes once a month is usually enough to keep a favourite pair looking its best for a long time.

Choose a pair you will love

Ready for a new pair? Shipping is $3.99 worldwide, free when you order 2 pairs or more, and you have 30 days to exchange or return if you change your mind.

Frequently asked questions

Can I wash faux suede flats in water?

Generally no. Water can stain or stiffen faux suede. Blot spills, brush when dry, and use a faux suede eraser for marks.

How often should I brush faux suede shoes?

A quick brush after each wear keeps dust from settling and keeps the nap even.

Is protector spray worth using?

Many people find it helpful. Test it in a hidden spot first and follow the label on the product.