How to Clean Nubuck Shoes: The Ultimate Guide

• Gabor Shoes

Your nubuck shoes may be some of your wardrobe's most comfortable and practical styles, and with maximum comfort comes limitless wearability. Whether you wear your nubuck shoes for gardening, running errands or dressing them up for exciting occasions, a necessary clean is inevitable.

While frequent wear will play a part in your shoes needing a spruce-up, spillages and stubborn stains caused by accidents will mean extra effort going into your cleaning process, but worry not! At Gabor, we understand our customers take pride in their shoes and keeping them looking fresh is important. That is why this latest blog covers everything to do with nubuck. So, if your shoes need a quick freshen-up or it’s time for a thorough clean, you can find our expert guidance here!

Table of Contents

What are nubuck shoes?

Nubuck is mainly sourced from calfskin due to its unmatched softness and luxury feel. However, past variations of nubuck have derived from other animals, such as elk or deer.

Nubuck is the perfect balance between leather and suede in appearance and touch. While the sanded-down softness of the material creates a suede-like feel, nubuck is a type of leather made from the full-grain section of an animal’s hide. The construction qualities of nubuck make it more durable and naturally thicker than suede due to its superior fibre structure.

Once sanded, some manufacturers choose to dye or further treat the material for a tidy finish. Yet opting not to make these alterations maintains the authenticity of the leather, giving every shoe an individual or custom edge.

How to remove dirt from nubuck shoes

Cleaning nubuck shoes is generally very simple. However, given that nubuck does not react well to dirt or stains, getting them looking brand new can be tough once something gets on them. Avoid wearing your nubuck shoes in wet or muddy weather to avoid staining. Instead, save any nubuck footwear for dry or sunny days, indoor events, or places.

Still, we understand that following these rules isn’t always easy, so we have provided our best advice to ensure your nubuck shoes stay at their best, even if they get a bit wet or dirty here and there.

Step 1: Leave your shoes to dry

Running to get a damp cloth may seem like the go-to answer for removing dirt from your shoes, but this is not true with nubuck leather! Instead, leave your shoes to dry in a well-ventilated room and away from direct sunlight.

Sunlight can cause your shoes to discolour and, in nubuck’s case, even harden, minimising their stunning look and comfort.

Once your shoes are dry, use a dry paper towel or cloth to remove any excess dirt.

You may also use a hairdryer, but take extra care; ensure it is not too close to the material and always use the cool setting to avoid applying unnecessary heat to the leather.

Step 2: Rub down your shoes with a nubuck brush

Use a nubuck brush to rub down your shoes, removing loose grit or dirt. You will find that the nubuck will naturally sit in a specific way; apply gentle pressure to your brush and only move it in the direction in which the leather sits. Brushing against the leather will cause it to roughen and damage.

Refrain from brushing your nubuck shoes for too long, which may wear the material. Once the dirt becomes loose, lightly wipe it away. Your shoes will soon be looking their best!

How to remove stains from nubuck shoes

To remove stains, follow the same steps as you would for removing dirt. However, rather than a nubuck brush, use a nubuck eraser. Rub the eraser over the stain lightly until it starts to lift. The motion of the eraser may disrupt the leather but can be softened with a nubuck cloth once the stain has been removed.

How to clean nubuck shoes with household items

Don’t have a nubuck brush or eraser to hand? Don’t worry! There are different ways you can remove dirt and stains from your nubuck shoes with items you will likely find in your cupboard! From water stains to tougher stains like oil or grease, keeping your shoes looking fresh has never been easier.

How to remove water stains from nubuck shoes

  • Cover the surface of your shoes lightly with water using a damp cloth or a water sprayer.
  • Brush the water into the material gently using a toothbrush.
  • Press your shoes with a dry paper towel.
  • Leave the shoes to air dry in a well-ventilated area, away from sunlight.

How to remove salt stains from nubuck shoes

  • Gently remove the loose salt from your shoes’ surface using a toothbrush.
  • Dip a cloth in white vinegar and rub it into the stain(s).
  • If the stain is particularly dark or large, place a drop of laundry detergent in warm water and dip a cloth into the mixture, wringing it so it is damp.
  • Wipe the stain carefully until it fades from the nubuck.
  • Leave the shoes to air dry in a well-ventilated area, away from sunlight.

How to remove grease or oil stains from nubuck shoes

  • When the stain is still fresh, gently sprinkle baking soda or cornflour over it and let it absorb the moisture for approximately 1 hour.
  • Once the stain has been absorbed, use a toothbrush or handheld hoover to remove the powder.
  • Dampen a cloth with a couple of drops of white vinegar and apply it to the affected area of your shoes. Give the vinegar time to disintegrate.
  • You may need to repeat the previous step for tougher stains.

Browse our stunning range of nubuck shoes at Gabor!

In need of a fresh pair of shoes? Our selection of women’s nubuck shoes is crafted of various colours and designs, ensuring you can easily find the perfect pair to suit your taste. Whether part of your every day or for a special event, the options are endless with Gabor.

Choose your favourite nubuck shoes from Gabor today and qualify for Free UK Deliveries On Orders Over £40!

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