Suede shoes are stylish and trendy, but they’re vulnerable to water damage. If you have accidentally soaked your favorite pair of suede shoes, don’t worry. With the following 11 steps, you can restore their vibrant appearance and texture.

1. Remove Excess Water: The first thing is to gently remove any excess water from the shoe’s surface. Use a clean cloth or paper towel to lightly dab the wet spots without rubbing them.

2. Stuff with Newspaper: Fill your suede shoes with newspaper or clean white paper towels. This will help absorb moisture from the inside, helping the shoes maintain their shape as they dry.

3. Ensure Proper Air Circulation: Place your shoes in a well-ventilated area that’s cool and dry. Avoid direct sunlight or artificial heat sources, which may cause damage to the suede’s texture.

4. Use a Suede Brush: Once your shoes have dried completely, use a suede brush to gently remove any dirt and debris that may have accumulated during the drying process.

5. Apply Suede Cleaner: If necessary, dampen a cloth with specially-formulated suede cleaner and delicately apply it on stained areas of your shoes in a circular motion, being careful not to over-wet the fabric.

6. Dry Shoes Thoroughly: Allow your shoes to air-dry, checking every few hours for signs of stiffness or discoloration. If they appear unevenly dried, try adjusting their position for better air circulation.

7. Steam to Revive Nap: Using a steamer or by holding your shoes above boiling water for a short period, create mild steam to raise the nap of your suede shoes gently.

8. Brush Again: After steaming, wait until your shoes are cool before using the suede brush again. This time, brush in different directions to bring back their original softness and texture.

9. Use a Suede Eraser: For stubborn stains that still persist, gently rub a suede eraser over the affected areas.

10. Apply Suede Protector: Once your shoes are completely dry, clean, and revived, apply a high-quality suede protector spray to prevent future water stains or damage.

11. Regular Maintenance: To keep your suede shoes looking their best, regularly brush them to remove any dirt or debris and apply a suede protector after each cleaning.

By following these steps, you can successfully restore your wet suede shoes to their former glory and continue to enjoy wearing them on various occasions. Remember always to keep your suede shoes away from water whenever possible and invest in proper upkeep for lasting wear.