How to Remove Grease Stains From Suede Boots

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You can remove grease stains from suede boots.

There's nothing worse than getting dressed up in your nice clothes, only to discover a stain. If you have a grease spot on suede shoes, you need to clean it as soon as possible to prevent the stain from setting. There are several methods for cleaning the grease spot and a number of things to use as a suede cleaner. You can also protect your boots using a boot protector to prevent a similar situation in the future.

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Things You'll Need

  • Two clean, dry cloths

  • An absorbent powder, such as talcum (baby) powder, cornstarch or baking powder

  • Damp cloth

  • Art eraser or nylon brush

  • Boot protector

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Using Suede Cleaner

Step 1: Blot the stain

Blot the stain to remove any excess grease or oil using a clean, dry cloth. Be sure to use a clean spot on the cloth after every blot to prevent redistributing the grease back into the boot. Get out as much as you can this way, and be patient.

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Step 2: Apply the powder and use a cloth

Next, sprinkle the absorbent powder onto the stain on the boot. You can use any of those listed, and there are others as well. Be sure to check your boot's materials to ensure there isn't anything else in them that might interact with the powder you choose.

Next, lay the damp cloth on top of the powder. It should be wet enough to weigh the cloth down and dampen the powder, but not so wet that it drips or absorbs into the suede.

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Step 3: Let the powder and stain sit

Leave the powder and cloth on the stain for several hours, ideally overnight or for about eight hours.

Step 4: Remove the cloth and powder

Next, remove the cloth and shake off as much powder as possible into the sink or garbage can. Then, use the second clean and dry cloth to brush off the rest of the powder.

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If any powder remains on the suede, use a nylon brush or an art eraser to get the rest of it off. The powder used should absorb the grease stain. If not, repeat these steps or take the boots to a dry cleaner.

Step 5: Buff your shoes

Buff your shoes to ensure they look their best.

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How To Protect Your Suede Boots

Suede is easily stained, so try to avoid grease if possible, but some advance prep can help if they do come into contact with grease. Before wearing your new suede boots, use a boot protector spray on the entire upper. There are several brands of boot protectors available. The most important thing is to make sure that it's appropriate for use on suede.

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Most come in sprays, but some may also come as roll-ons. Read the manufacturer's instructions for how best to apply the boot protector. Allow the boots to dry completely before wearing them.

Even if you have worn your boots several times, you can still add a boot protector; it's not too late to seal your suede! Experts also recommend re-applying the spray every year. This will prolong the life of your boots in general as well as protect them from new stains.

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