A Step-by-Step Guide to Removing Shoe Polish Stains from Your Suit

No matter how careful we are, accidents can happen. If shoe polish has stained your favorite suit, don't panic – there are steps you can take to get that suit looking good as new.


Updated 23 Jun 2023

By Cyryl Wozniak

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Removing Fresh Stains

If you catch a shoe polish stain before it has dried, the process is relatively simple. Gently blot the spot with a damp cloth and use a mild laundry detergent to help remove the excess liquid. If you need extra cleaning power, you can also try rubbing alcohol. Don’t scrub the fabric – use a gentle motion so as not to damage the fabric fibers. Rinse and blot the area again to remove any detergent or alcohol that remains.

Removing Old Stains

When dealing with older stains, you may need to use special cleaners which can be purchased at most department stores. Read the instructions carefully and apply cleaner to stained area. Let the cleaner sit for the recommended amount of time – usually a few minutes or up to an hour – then wash the garment according to the care instructions and check to see if the stain has been successfully removed.

Alternate Cleaning Methods

If the methods described above aren’t successful, there are other options. Professional dry cleaning may help to remove even the toughest of stains, but you should always test an inconspicuous area of the garment prior to treating entire stain. You can also try using a mixture of vinegar, baking soda, and water to gently scrub the affected area. After applying the cleaning solution, rinse and blot until all of residue is gone.

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