How to clean suede birkenstocks?

Question

I somehow got artists' charcoal all over the side of my Birkenstock sandal. How do I clean it? I don't have any fancy suede cleaners or chemicals. I don't even have any vinegar which many websites say to use. Also, charcoal is a dry medium and shouldn't even require chemicals.

Answer 1

saddle soap, you can purchase it almost anywhere kiwi shoe polish is sold. you rub it in until stain disappears and let birks dry, they will be good as new and the residual soap that is left will treat the shoes to resist stains. win- win and cheap

Answer 2

With suede, you might want to try just a brush. There's a brush made for suede, with some brass and some plastic bristles, any shoemaker should have one, or maybe the shoe care section at Wal-Mart. If it's just dry powdery stuff, it will probably brush out. You don't want to use any liquids on suede if you can avoid it. If you have any small stiff brush around the house such as a nail brush, or a small wire brush, try that first.