How to Clean Nubuck Jordans

Nubuck Jordans require careful cleaning to maintain their texture and color. This guide walks through a practical process using common suede and nubuck care tools, focusing on safety, efficiency, and preserving the material’s nap.

Proper maintenance helps extend the life of nubuck sneakers, keeping them looking fresh without damaging the delicate surface. Follow the steps below to remove dirt, stains, and scuffs while preserving the original finish.

Quick Answer

Use a nubuck sneaker cleaning kit with a brush and eraser to lift surface soil, followed by a suede nubuck cleaner spray for stubborn marks. Always brush gently, avoid saturating the material, and finish with a protective nubuck conditioner or spray.

What You’ll Need

nubuck sneaker cleaning kit brush and eraser for dry cleaning and scuff removal
suede nubuck cleaner spray for sneakers with brush to lift stains with minimal water
sneaker cleaning brush set nubuck suede for targeted brushing and detailing

	Angelus Suede & Nubuck Cleaner Kit – 1 Cleaning Eraser Block and 1 Nylon Bristle Brush – Eliminates Stains, Removes Spots, Restores Nap – for Leather Suede Shoe, Handbags, Jackets, Boots, Furniture
	Tidybond Suede Cleaner Kit – Premium Shoe Cleaner for Suede & Nubuck Shoes, Boots, Bags, Purses & Furniture – Safe, Non-Toxic Formula with Brush & Towel – Removes Stains, Salt & Dirt – 200ml
	2 Pcs Suede Shoe Brushes with Suede Eraser, Nubuck Cleaning Brush Set for Suede Shoes, Boots, Sneakers, Jackets and Leather Care

Before You Start

Work in a well-ventilated area and test any product on a hidden area of the sneaker first. Use a light touch to avoid removing color. Allow shoes to air dry away from direct heat or sunlight. Expect a cleaning session to take 20–40 minutes depending on soil level. Critical cautions include not soaking nubuck, avoiding harsh solvents, and letting the nap dry in its natural direction to prevent matting.

Step-By-Step: How To Clean Nubuck Jordans

Remove laces and insole (if removable) to get full access to the exterior surfaces.
Lightly brush the entire shoe with the nubuck sneaker cleaning kit brush to lift surface dirt.
Gently rub any scuffs with the nubuck eraser until the marks fade, using short, even strokes.
Apply a light spray of suede nubuck cleaner spray for sneakers with brush to stained areas, then work in circular motions.
For stubborn stains, apply a touch more cleaner and brush with the brush set nubuck suede, focusing on the nap direction.
Wipe away excess cleaner with a clean microfiber cloth and let the shoes air dry away from heat.
Once dry, brush the nap again to restore texture and even color across the surface.
Re-lace the shoes and insert the insole, then inspect for any remaining marks and repeat if necessary.
Optionally apply a nubuck conditioner or protective spray to guard against future staining.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent fading and cracking.
Repeat maintenance every few weeks to keep nubuck Jordans looking fresh, especially after exposure to rain or dirt.
For routine touch-ups, spot-clean small areas between full cleanings using the same tools.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Likely Cause	Fix	Prevention
Nap looks flat after cleaning	Excess moisture or over-brushing	Brush lightly in one direction to lift nap, allow to dry fully	Use minimal spray and dry naturally
Streaks or uneven color	Cleaner applied too heavily or uneven brushing	Evenly reapply a small amount of cleaner and brush in the nap direction	Test cleaner on hidden area first
Water spots after cleaning	Water contact during cleaning	Blot gently with microfiber and allow to air dry	Use a damp brush rather than soaking with water
Color loss on a small patch	Over-scrubbing or harsh chemical	Stop using aggressive tools and retreat with gentler methods	Follow manufacturer guidance and test first

Common Mistakes

Using too much water or soaking nubuck, which can damage the nap.
Scrubbing aggressively, which may cause color loss or nap flattening.
Skipping a blotting test before applying cleaners to the full shoe.
Ignoring intricate seams or eyelets where dirt can accumulate.
Applying protective coatings too soon after cleaning, trapping moisture.

Careful, patient cleaning yields the best results. Rushing through the process increases the risk of permanent staining or nap damage.

Tips For Best Results

Brush in one consistent direction to maintain the nap’s natural rise.
Use small amounts of cleaner; you can always repeat, but you cannot undo over-wetting.
Store brushes in a clean, dry place to prevent mold or odor transfer.
Consider a color-safe nubuck conditioner to preserve suppleness after cleaning.
Test every product on a hidden area before full application for color integrity.

Call A Professional

Seek professional cleaning if there are deep stains, visible dye bleed, or weather-related damage that doesn’t respond to at-home methods. Stop cleaning and contact a sneaker specialist if you notice cracking or persistent discoloration after initial attempts.

FAQ

Can I clean Nubuck Jordans with water alone?

Water alone is not recommended; nubuck is porous and can darken or stiffen. Use specialized nubuck cleaners or sprays with light brushing.

Is it safe to use a eraser on nubuck?

Yes, a nubuck eraser can help lift scuffs but should be used gently to avoid removing color.

How often should I clean nubuck sneakers?

Clean when visible dirt appears or after exposure to moisture. Regular light maintenance helps maintain nap texture.

Do I need to waterproof nubuck Jordans after cleaning?

Applying a nubuck-safe protective spray after cleaning is recommended to help repel future stains.

Buying Guide

When selecting products to clean nubuck Jordans, consider size, usability, and compatibility with nubuck materials. Look for kits that include a nubuck brush and eraser, plus a dedicated nubuck cleaner spray with a brush attachment. Evaluate whether the kit supports multiple sneaker sizes and is easy to store at home. Consider the noise level and ease of use for daily routines.

Factors To Consider When Buying

<bSize and compatibility: Ensure the brushes and cleaners fit your sneakers and are not too abrasive for nubuck.
<bNoise level and ease of use: Look for compact tools that are comfortable to handle without excessive noise or friction.
<bEnergy efficiency and storage: Choose products with long-lasting components and simple storage solutions.
<bControls and application: Prefer kits with clear instructions, spray bottles, and brush heads designed for nubuck nap.
<bPlacement and usage space: A small, clean workspace helps keep tools organized and reduces mess.