How to clean nubuck leather: 6 Smart Tips

A few weeks ago, I noticed my favorite pair of nubuck boots were looking a little rough. They’re beige and usually my go-to for when I want to look stylish but still feel comfortable. Over time, though, they started to show signs of dirt and scuffs. That’s when I realized: it was time to figure out how to clean nubuck leather properly. If you’ve ever dealt with nubuck before, you know it can be a bit tricky.

What is Nubuck and Why is it So High Maintenance?

For those who might not know, nubuck is a type of leather that’s been sanded on the outer side, giving it a soft, velvety texture. It’s similar to suede but is made from the stronger outer layer of the hide, so it’s a bit tougher. However, nubuck still gets dirty easily, and because of its delicate surface, it needs a special kind of care.

My Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Nubuck

Here’s how I tackled the problem and got my boots looking good as new.

Start by Brushing Off Loose Dirt

Before you do anything else, grab a nubuck brush. It’s a soft-bristled brush specifically made for this kind of material. You want to use it to brush away any surface dirt and dust. Don’t rush it—go slowly and gently to avoid damaging that soft, velvety texture. This is a crucial step because if you skip it, you’ll end up rubbing dirt deeper into the leather.

Erase Small Stains with a Nubuck Eraser

Next up: stains. For those, I used a nubuck eraser. Yup, it’s exactly what it sounds like—a little eraser made for lifting out dirt from nubuck. You just gently rub the eraser on the stained areas, and it works its magic. This really helped with smaller scuffs and marks on my boots.

Use a Nubuck Cleaner for Deep Cleaning

For tougher stains or when your shoes just need an overall clean, you’ll need a nubuck cleaner. I went for a foam-based cleaner because it’s easy to apply. A quick tip: always test the cleaner on a small, hidden part of your shoe first, just to make sure it won’t mess with the color.

Once you’re sure it’s safe, spray or apply the foam evenly across the shoe. Use the brush again to gently scrub the surface. This helps work the cleaner into the fabric without damaging the nap (the soft surface).

Let It Dry Naturally

After cleaning, it’s important to let your boots air dry. Never use heat, like a radiator or blow dryer—this can cause the leather to dry out and crack. I left my boots at room temperature overnight, and they dried perfectly.

Restore the Texture

Once they’re dry, the boots can feel a little stiff or rough. Take your nubuck brush again and gently brush in circular motions or with the grain to bring back that soft, velvety texture. It really makes a difference and keeps them looking fresh.

Protect the Leather

Lastly, you’ll want to protect your freshly cleaned nubuck. I used a nubuck protector spray that helps repel water and dirt. It creates a sort of invisible barrier on the surface.

What About Tough Stains?

Now, not all stains are easy to deal with. Here are a few tricks I’ve found that work for specific issues:

• If you spill something oily, grab some cornstarch or talcum powder. Sprinkle it over the stain and let it sit for a few hours to absorb the oil. Then, brush it off carefully.
• Water and nubuck don’t mix well, but if you get water stains, let the leather dry naturally. Once dry, you can try lightly brushing the spot. If it still doesn’t look right, a mix of white vinegar and water (1 part vinegar to 2 parts water) can sometimes help.

How to Store Nubuck Properly?

Cleaning is just part of the process—proper storage is also crucial. Here’s how to make sure your nubuck stays in good shape:

• Keep nubuck shoes or bags in a cool, dry place, out of direct sunlight. Sunlight can fade the color over time.
• Store them in dust bags or boxes to prevent dust and dirt buildup.
• Brush or clean them regularly, even if you’re not wearing them frequently, to keep the material in good condition.

How to clean nubuck leather: Common Mistakes to Avoid

I made a few mistakes while learning to care for nubuck, so here are some tips to help you avoid them:

• Don’t soak nubuck in water—it’ll leave marks and stiffen the leather.
• Avoid heat drying—it can cause the leather to crack.
• Don’t use regular cleaners—stick to products specifically made for nubuck to protect the texture and color.

Read also: How to clean vegan leather?

FAQs

During this whole process, I came across some common questions that might be helpful for you:

In Conclusion

Well, although Nubuck can be a little more picky in care, but if you take care of the products from the first day of operation and regularly, your things will look perfect for many years. After the fulfillment of all the steps indicated in the article, my shoes returned to their previous species, and I am sure that I can combine them with my favorite skirt plisse or strict trousers for a long time.

So, if you have Nubuck shoes, bags or jackets that have become a little worse, do not worry – you can still fix it! Just follow the steps and your nubuk will look as good as the new one.