Keep Your Faux Suede Heels Looking Flawless
Keep Your Faux Suede Heels Looking Flawless
You’ve found the perfect pair of faux suede heels. They look incredible, feel amazing, and you can’t wait to show them off. But with great power comes great responsibility—the responsibility to keep them looking as stunning as the day you unboxed them. Faux suede is luxurious and stylish, but it can be delicate. Scuffs, dirt, and stains can feel like an inevitable nightmare
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Don’t worry. With a little preventative care and the right cleaning techniques, you can protect your investment and keep your heels in rotation for a long time. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about faux suede care, from proactive protection to tackling stubborn spots.
Start with Proactive Protection
The best way to fix a problem is to prevent it from happening in the first place. A few simple steps before you even step out can make all the difference in preserving the life and look of your heels.
Use Boot and Shoe Protectors
Boot and shoe protectors are your first line of defense against damage. These are thin, often clear, adhesive guards that you apply to the most vulnerable parts of your shoe—the platform and the heel itself. They create a barrier that takes the brunt of any friction, scuffs from floorwork, or accidental bumps.
Applying protectors is an easy way to prevent the dreaded scuff marks that can appear at the tip of the platform. They are designed to be discreet, blending seamlessly with your shoe so you can dance, walk, and perform with confidence.
Apply a Faux Suede Protector Spray
Before your first wear, treat your heels with a protector spray specifically formulated for faux suede or synthetic materials. You can find these at most shoe stores or online. This spray creates an invisible shield that repels water and helps prevent stains from setting into the fabric.
Always follow the instructions on the product label. Typically, you will spray an even coat over the entire shoe from a distance and let it dry completely in a well-ventilated area. This simple step can save you a lot of cleaning effort down the line. Remember to spot-test the spray on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn't alter the color or texture of your heels.
Choose Your Surface Wisely
This might sound obvious, but the surface you walk and dance on matters. A clean, smooth floor will be much kinder to your heels than a dirty or rough one. Debris, grit, and sticky spots on the floor can easily transfer to your shoes, leading to discoloration and damage. Whenever possible, do a quick check of your environment to avoid unnecessary wear and tear.
How to Clean Faux Suede Heels
Even with the best preventative measures, scuffs and stains can happen. When they do, a gentle and methodical approach is key. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive scrubbing, which can permanently damage the delicate fibers of the faux suede.
What You’ll Need:
- A soft-bristled brush (a clean toothbrush or a dedicated suede brush works well)
- A clean, dry cloth
- Your chosen cleaning solution (see options below)
- A small bowl of water
Step 1: Brush Away Loose Dirt
Before applying any liquid, use your soft-bristled brush to gently remove any loose dirt, dust, or debris from the surface of the shoe. Brush in one direction to lift the nap of the fabric and prepare it for cleaning.
Step 2: Prepare Your Cleaning Solution
You have a couple of effective, gentle options for cleaning faux suede.
- Option A: Oxygen-Based Stain Remover: These cleaners are excellent for lifting stains without harsh bleach. Dilute a small amount of an oxygen-based, color-safe stain remover with water according to the product's directions.
- Option B: Micellar Water: Often used for skincare, micellar water is brilliant at lifting dirt and oils without soap. It’s a gentle yet effective choice for spot-cleaning.
Disclaimer: Always perform a patch test on a hidden area of the shoe, like the inner arch, to ensure your chosen cleaner does not cause discoloration.
Step 3: Spot-Clean the Stains
Dip your soft brush into the cleaning solution. Using small, circular motions, gently scrub the stained or dirty areas. Don't saturate the fabric; a little goes a long way. The goal is to lift the stain out, not push it deeper into the material.
Step 4: Rinse and Blot
Lightly dampen a clean cloth with plain water and gently blot the area you just cleaned. This helps remove any residue from the cleaning solution. Be careful not to soak the shoe.
Step 5: Dry Thoroughly
Pat the area dry with a separate, clean, dry cloth. To help the shoe keep its shape, you can stuff it with paper towels. Let your heels air dry completely, away from direct sunlight or heat sources like radiators or hair dryers. High heat can damage the synthetic fibers and adhesives.
Step 6: Restore the Texture
Once the shoe is completely dry, use your dry, soft-bristled brush again to gently brush the fabric. This will help restore its original soft, velvety texture.
Preserve Your Power
Your heels are an extension of your confidence and style. Taking a few moments to care for them ensures they’ll be ready for any occasion, from a dance class to a night out. By protecting them from the start and cleaning them with care, you empower yourself to step out looking and feeling your best every single time.
Ready to give your shoes the protection they deserve? Explore our collection of heel protectors and other essential care accessories to keep your favorite pairs in pristine condition.
