Nubuck is a type of bovine leather which, like suede, is sandblasted to obtain the classic velvety down; however, the suede is obtained from the inside of the leather while the nubuck from the outside, a detail that makes it more resistant and long lasting. However, it is a very vulnerable material to stains and dirt, which must be cleaned, protected with special tools and products. If all other remedies do not bring results, you can also grind it with a hard stone.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Remove Soil and Dirt
Step 1. Rub the nubuck item with a special cloth
Get this type of fabric, made just for this purpose, and which generally contains detergent between the fibers; By using it regularly, you can eliminate light encrustations and shiny spots while preventing dirt from accumulating.
- Rub in different directions, in circular motions to clean all sides of the fluff.
- If you are dealing with shoes, remember to remove the laces before starting.
Step 2. Use a nubuck brush
Also in this case, make circular movements taking care not to dwell more than a couple of seconds on each area, otherwise you damage the finishing of the material; in this way, you get rid of the dust and dirt.
You can find nubuck brushes in most shops that sell items made with this leather; alternatively, you can turn to online sites like Amazon
Step 3. Use a specific cleaner for particularly dirty areas
It is a liquid and spray product formulated for this kind of material. Apply it to the cloth and rub the entire surface; at the end, brush the leather to remove any residue.
You can buy the cleaner in the same shop where you bought the nubuck item, such as boots or shoes; if not, you can order it on online sites like Amazon
Step 4. Clean and apply a protective product regularly
This way, you don't have to use degreasers or cleaners to solve a major problem. You can also spray a layer of protective liquid at least every six months; apply it and then let the leather dry completely before using or wearing the item.
- The best time to use the spray is after cleaning the nubuck.
- Remember to lift the fluff before spraying the product.
Method 2 of 3: Coping with Difficult Spots
Step 1. Start by wiping the object with the specific cloth
Regardless of the substance that caused the stain, the key thing is to try to get rid of the excess; this remedy may be sufficient for light spots.
The nubuck cloth is woven specifically for cleaning this material and often contains detergent between the fibers
Step 2. Use a degreaser and leather cleaner on oily stains
This type of stain typically forms on jacket collars or furniture headboards. The degreaser is usually sold in the form of a spray, you have to apply it to the surface to be treated and let it work for about an hour.
- The product turns into powder by absorbing the oil.
- Scrub away the dusty residue using a sponge or leather cleaner.
- If the stain is still present, repeat the procedure.
Step 3. Use an ink remover on these types of stains
It is important to act promptly on the ink before the liquid sets on the material, usually in the first six hours. Ink remover is a fatty substance sold in a tube that resembles a lip balm; Rub it on the stain until it is completely covered, then use the special cloth and the leather cleaner to get rid of the residue.
Step 4. Dry the nubuck with the hair dryer and brush it with the special tool
Brush the fur while you dry it to get rid of the residue of the substance that caused the stain and prevent it from setting.
Method 3 of 3: Sand Stubborn Stains
Step 1. Use a chamois eraser or sandpaper to sand the nubuck surface
As already mentioned, this material is obtained by sandblasting cowhide and can therefore withstand this kind of cleaning. To remove stubborn stains, rub them vigorously with sandpaper or a chamois eraser until the surface is clean again; if you have to treat a specific spot, limit yourself to the dirty area only.
Make sure the gum is clean before you start
Step 2. Thoroughly sand off heavily soiled surfaces
If the stains have set in the leather or the whole object is encrusted with dirt, you need to treat it entirely. Run the rubber or sandpaper all over the nubuck until it comes back clean; you will get a leather like new.
Step 3. Use a special brush to remove debris
As you sand the nubuck, a fine dust is formed consisting of leather and dirt; brush it off to keep the item clean.
Advice
Consider purchasing a brush with central metal bristles surrounded by nylon bristles. Use the former for a vigorous action on durable nubuck items, such as hiking boots, and the latter to gently brush the softer material
Warnings
- Be careful when using the rubber brush, because if you scrub too hard or too long in one area, you could irreparably damage the lint on the material.
- Never try to clean the nubuck with water.
