Last Updated on August 8, 2025 by Martina McKeough
I love the look of Suede but I know that in winter the weather can be brutal and ruin them in an instant. Snow, slush, salt and rain can destroy this delicate material in an instant but with the right Suede Boot Care you can keep your footwear looking good all season long.
Over the years I’ve mastered the art of looking after my suede boots and I thought I would talk to you about my complete winter protection guide that can help you look after your footwear.
Let’s talk about how I do my pre-winter preparation for bad weather, how I maintain my boots day to day and what you can do if you need to do some emergency stain removal during the season.
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Why Suede Boots Need Special Winter Care
Suede leather is made from the underside of animal hide, creating that velvety texture that we love. However, this same texture that makes suede so appealing also makes it incredibly vulnerable to water damage, stains, and matting.
Unlike smooth leather, suede has an open fiber structure that absorbs moisture quickly. When water penetrates suede, it can cause permanent staining, color changes, and texture damage. Winter conditions like snow, rain, and road salt compound these problems, making proper suede boot protection absolutely critical.
The good news? With consistent care and the right products, your suede boots can survive multiple winters whilst keeping their beautiful appearance.
Essential Suede Boot Care Products for Winter
Suede Protector Spray
A high-quality suede protector spray is your first line of defense against winter weather. It can create an invisible barrier that protects your footwear without changing the suede’s texture or look.
There are a number of brands out there that I trust but my current favorite is Crep Protect Spray which I use on my other footwear as well.
Whatever you do apply your suede protector spray before you first wear your boots and then and reapply every 2-3 weeks during heavy winter use. Don’t get lazy as skipping this step means that your boots are going to deteriorate really quickly.
Suede Brush Set
Invest in a proper suede brush set to also help with keeping your boots looking good. I have always bought sets that have the following:
- Brass brush: For stubborn stains and matted areas
- Nylon brush: For gentle daily maintenance
- Crepe rubber block: For scuff marks and surface stains
Regular brushing keeps the suede fibers lifted and prevents permanent matting from moisture and debris. I always inspect my boots when I take them off after wearing them all day for problems. If I see they need attention I try and do it as soon as possible. You should do the same.
Suede Cleaner Solution
For deeper cleaning, you’ll need a specialized suede cleaner. Avoid using water or standard leather cleaners, which can damage the delicate fibers.
I like to buy Jason Markk Shoe Cleaner because it doesn’t just work on Suede but a whole host of other footwear as well like canvas and leather so it multi-tasks for me.
Pre-Winter Suede Boot Preparation
As Fall is about to arrive I start getting my boots ready for the coming season. If you have older suede boots then follow this routine to make sure you are ready for the colder, wetter weather.
Deep Clean Your Suede Boots
- Remove any laces and any removable insoles
- Use a suede brush to lift the nap and remove surface dirt
- Apply suede cleaner to any existing stains
- Allow boots to dry completely (24-48 hours)
- Brush again to restore the texture
Apply Your Protector
Once your boots are completely clean and dry:
- Test the protector spray on an inconspicuous area first
- Hold the spray 6-8 inches from the boot surface
- Apply thin, even coats covering the entire boot
- Allow 15 minutes between coats
- Apply 2-3 light coats for optimal protection
- Let them dry for 24 hours before wearing
Insert Cedar Boot Trees
Cedar boot trees help maintain the shape or your boots as well as absorbing moisture and odors. Insert them immediately after each wear to prevent creasing and extend your boots’ lifespan.
I store my boots in my closet where I also have a moisture absorber to prevent mold.
Daily Winter Suede Boot Routine
In the winter I have a routine I follow that keeps my boots in good shape throughout the season.
The first thing I do is check the weather forecast. If the weather looks like torrential rain or heavy snow I wear something else other than suede. This is just common sense. There is no point going out of your way to ruin your boots. They can deal with light rain and light snow that isn’t settling at a push but I don’t wear them if I know there is anything heavier.
I also make sure my boots are totally dry from my previous wear before putting them on.
Evening Care Routine
After I’ve worn them that day I then:
- Remove excess moisture: I gently pat with a clean towel to dry them
- Stuff them with newspaper: This helps absorb internal moisture and maintains their shape
- I Let them air dry: Make sure you keep them away from direct heat sources
- Brush when dry: Restore the suede texture with your brushes only after they have dried.
How to Waterproof Suede Boots for Winter
While suede can never be 100% waterproof, you can make it more water resistant.
There are professional waterproofing treatments offered by cobblers that use industrial grade products which are worth looking at especially if your boots are really expensive.
Alternatively you can go the DIY root and use a waterproofing spray. If you do use this method make sure that you clean your boots carefully first and apply the waterproofing spray in thin and even layers.
Make sure you focus on the seams and reappy it every month during winter.
Salt Stain Removal
Salt stains are the one thing that regularly impacts my shoes and boots in winter. Seeing that line around my footwear is always annoying but I have two solutions you can use.
In both cases let your boots dry first and then use your suede brush to remove any dried salt crystals if there are any.
Then for cheaper suede boots I mix equal parts vinegar and water and gently dab the solution on to the stain with a clean cloth. Once the product is dried then I use my suede brush to restore the texture to the boots.
However a word of warning, vinegar and water can discolor some suede and isn’t really suitable for colored or delicate designer suede.
So if your boots are more expensive use the Jason Markk Shoe cleaner instead. It costs more money but means that your shoes are more likely to stay looking good.
Water Spot Treatment
The other issue I sometimes get is water spots on my suede. This can be sorted by:
- Lightly dampening the entire stained area with distilled water
- Use your suede brush to work in circular motions
- Let them dry completely away from heat
- Brush in one direction to restore the nap
Mud and Dirt Removal
I try and stay out of the mud and dirt but especially when I’m wearing suede however if you have been caught out make sure you allow the mud to dry out completely before doing anything.
Only when it is dry use your suede brush to remove the loose dirt and then apply a suede cleaning solution to remove the remaining stains.
Work with the grain, not against it and let your boots dry before giving them a final brush.
When to Choose Professional Cleaning
If you can’t remove any stains yourself then you could think about professional boot or shoe cleaning but this can be pricey.
It is great for severe staining or damage or when you don’t want to ruin expensive designer boots.
Expect to pay at least $70 dollars for a pair of designer boots if not more. You may also need to send your boots away to get this done if there is nobody in your area who offers the service.
This is why keeping up with regular home maintenance saves you money.
Common Suede Boot Care Mistakes to Avoid
Finally there are a few products and things you should never do with your suede boots.
Firstly never use water for cleaning them. The professional cleaner I have recommended is always the best option.
Saddle soap, shoe polish or petroleum based products will also ruin your boots.
Also never dry your boots in direct heat as this will dry them out too quickly and cause problems.
Protecting Your Suede Boot Investment
With proper suede boot care your footwear can stay looking great for years. The key is consistent maintenance, quality products, and prompt attention to stains and moisture. Remember that prevention is always easier than repair so invest in good protector sprays and establish daily care routines.
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