Cleaning nubuck shoes is essential to maintain their aesthetic appeal, prolong their lifespan, and prevent the accumulation of dirt and grime that can degrade the material. Regular cleaning also helps in preserving the unique texture and softness of nubuck.
Guide to Clean Nubuck Shoes
Supplies Required
- Nubuck brush
- Nubuck eraser
- Nubuck cleaning solution
- Soft cloth
- Water
Detailed Instructions
Remove Loose Dirt and Debris
Before you begin to clean nubuck shoes, ensure they are dry and lightly brush the surface with the nubuck brush to remove any loose dirt or debris. This prepares the shoe for a deeper clean and prevents scratching.
Use the Nubuck Eraser
Gently rub the nubuck eraser over any stains or scuffs on the shoes. The eraser is designed to lift away superficial marks and prepare the area for cleaning with a solution.
Prepare the Cleaning Solution
Mix the nubuck cleaning solution as per the manufacturer’s instructions. Typically, this involves diluting it with a certain amount of water.
Apply the Cleaning Solution
Dampen a soft cloth with the prepared nubuck cleaning solution. Gently rub the cloth over the shoes, paying special attention to stained or heavily soiled areas. Remember to clean nubuck shoes gently to prevent damage to the material.
Wipe Away Excess Solution
After you clean nubuck shoes with the solution, use a separate clean, dry cloth to wipe away any excess solution and moisture from the shoes. This ensures that no residue is left behind.
Let the Shoes Dry
Allow your nubuck shoes to air dry naturally, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Direct heat can warp the shoes and affect their texture.
Brush to Restore Nap
Once the shoes are completely dry, use the nubuck brush to gently brush the surface. This helps restore the nubuck’s nap and soft texture, ensuring your shoes look and feel as good as new after the cleaning process.
Cleaning Tough Stains on Nubuck Shoes
Water
Water can leave spots on the nubuck when it dries unevenly. To address this, lightly dampen the entire area around the water stain with a clean cloth, then let the shoe dry naturally. This can help the shoe dry uniformly, reducing noticeable spots.
Salt
Salt can cause white stains on the nubuck. Prepare a solution of equal parts vinegar and water. Dab the solution lightly onto the salt stain using a cloth, then let it dry naturally. Afterwards, brush the nubuck to restore its texture.
Ink/Paint
Ink and paint can be challenging to remove. Using a nubuck eraser can help lift light ink marks. For deeper stains, you may dab a small amount of rubbing alcohol on a cloth and gently rub the stain, not spreading the ink or paint further. Always test first in an inconspicuous spot.
Oil/Grease
Oil and grease can darken nubuck and affect its texture. Sprinkle a small amount of cornstarch or talcum powder over the stain and let it sit for several hours or overnight. The powder can absorb the oil/grease, after which you can brush it off and gently brush the nubuck to restore its original texture.
How to Clean the Inside of Nubuck Shoes?
Vacuum Inside: Using a vacuum with a nozzle attachment, gently suck out any debris or dust from the inside of the nubuck shoes.
Dampen a Cloth with Mild Solution: Mix a solution of lukewarm water with a few drops of mild soap. Wring out a cloth so it’s damp, not wet, and wipe the interior surfaces of the shoe.
Air Dry: Allow the shoes to air dry naturally, keeping them away from direct heat sources to ensure the shape and materials aren’t affected.
Deodorize (optional): For a fresher scent, sprinkle a small amount of baking soda inside the shoes, let sit overnight, and shake out the excess in the morning.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I clean my nubuck shoes?
Clean your nubuck shoes whenever they appear dirty or after exposure to mud or liquids. For regular maintenance, brushing them every couple of weeks is sufficient.
How to clean suede shoes?
For suede shoes, use a suede brush to remove loose dirt and debris, apply a suede cleaner for tough stains, and always allow them to air dry if dampened.
How to clean leather shoes?
Wipe leather shoes with a damp cloth, apply a leather cleaner or mild soap solution for tougher stains, and finish by conditioning with a leather conditioner to maintain suppleness.
How to clean oiled nubuck shoes?
For oiled nubuck shoes, brush off loose dirt, use a cleaner specifically designed for oiled nubuck, and periodically re-oil them to maintain their unique finish.
What household items can you use to clean nubuck shoes?
Household items such as a pencil eraser (as a substitute for a nubuck eraser), a mixture of vinegar and water for salt stains, and cornstarch or talcum powder for oil/grease stains can be used to clean nubuck shoes. Always test any household item in an inconspicuous spot first.