Nubuck shoes look great and can last forever. Because nubuck is made from the outside of the hide, it tends to last longer and be more durable than suede. The key, of course, is to properly care for your nubuck shoes. Here's everything you need to know.
Materials Needed for Cleaning Nubuck Shoes
- Leather Honey Suede & Nubuck Cleaner
- Lint-free cloth
- Suede or nubuck eraser
- Small handheld vacuum
- Suede or nubuck brush
How to Clean Nubuck Shoes in 5 Steps
1. Remove Loose Dirt and Debris
The first thing to do when cleaning nubuck shoes is to make sure there is no loose dirt on them. You can use a small handheld vacuum or a lint-free brush. If you're using a vacuum to clean your nubuck shoes, be sure to use a soft-bristle attachment. A hard plastic attachment could scuff the nubuck.
2. Use a Suede or Nubuck Brush
If there is still dirt on your nubuck shoes, try using a suede or nubuck brush. When using the brush, make small, circular motions over the nubuck. Don't press too hard; a small amount of pressure should do the trick.
3. Remove Stains with Eraser
If your nubuck shoes have stains on them, use a suede or nubuck eraser to gently remove them. If you don't have a nubuck eraser, a household eraser can work. Again, be careful with the amount of pressure being applied. You don't want to rub so hard that you scuff your nubuck shoes.
4. Spot Test Nubuck Cleaner
Do a spot test of Leather Honey Suede & Nubuck Cleaner on your nubuck shoes. You'll want to find a small, inconspicuous spot. Once you do, apply some of the cleaner with a lint-free cloth. Leather Honey Suede & Nubuck Cleaner is specifically engineered for suede and nubuck, so there should be no adverse impact.
5. Apply Nubuck Cleaner
Grab your lint-free cloth and spray Leather Honey Suede & Nubuck Cleaner onto it. Next, gently clean the nubuck shoes with the cloth. Make sure you get every inch of the shoes. Once you have finished, allow your nubuck shoes to completely dry before wearing them again. We suggest a minimum wait of 24 hours.
More to Know About How to Clean Nubuck Shoes
Some common questions people have about cleaning nubuck shoes.
What can I use to clean nubuck shoes?
The best thing to use when cleaning nubuck shoes is a premade cleaner, like Leather Honey Suede & Nubuck Cleaner.
Can I clean nubuck with soap and water?
You should not use soap and water to clean nubuck shoes. Water can not only stain nubuck, it will dry it out and eventually ruin it.
Is it okay to get nubuck wet?
Nubuck shoes are more durable than suede shoes, so getting them wet occasinonally is not a big deal. However, make sure you allow the nubuck shoes to air dry and keep them regularly conditioned.
