Nubuck & Suede Care Guide

When conditioning suede and nubuck, the key difference from smooth leather is the absence of the protective top layer. Without this layer, the conditioner is still absorbed deeply into the fibers but may alter the look and feel of the nap surface. The main goal when caring for suede and nubuck is to preserve and restore the nap while conditioning the leather with the essential fats, oils, and waxes it needs to remain healthy and protected.

For using our products on nubuck or suede, here’s the approach we recommend:

 

Brush the surface: Start by gently brushing away dirt and dust with a soft-bristle brush. (Optional: For tougher spots, use a suede eraser to lift contaminants that brushing alone can't remove. A toothbrush can also be used for tight areas, like stitching or folds.)
Clean the surface: Dampen (but do not soak) a lint-free cloth with Leather Spot Cleaner and gently scrub in circular motions to remove any remaining contaminants. (Note: The Spot Cleaner is not designed to remove stains, color transfers, or deep-set issues.)
Brush again: After cleaning, gently brush the item once more to restore the nap and allow it to fully dry.
Condition the leather: Using a lint-free cloth, apply a small amount of conditioner in circular motions. Condition small areas at a time to ensure even coverage and to help maintain the nap. After conditioning each area, gently brush the item to remove any excess conditioner.
Dry fully: Let the item dry completely for around 24 hours before using it again.

In short: Brush, clean, brush, condition, brush, dry!

Additional Recommendations:

• Always test the conditioner in a discreet area first to ensure you're comfortable with any potential darkening, especially with suede or nubuck.
• Darkening can be more noticeable on suede/nubuck due to the nature of the nap.
• Gently brushing your suede or nubuck item after every use helps reduce long-term buildup of contaminants and keeps the nap looking fresh.