What is Nubuck Leather? | Nubuck vs Suede (2026)

Nubuck leather is a fascinating and premium material that many people confuse with suede, yet it possesses a distinct set of characteristics, qualities, and advantages that set it apart. Whether you are a leather enthusiast, a first-time buyer, or simply curious about the differences between leather types, this comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about nubuck leather, from how it is made to how to clean, condition, store, and restore it.

Key Takeaways

• Nubuck leather is made from the outer layer of animal hide (typically calfskin), making it more durable than suede, which comes from the weaker inner layer

• The material has a distinctive velvety texture created through a sanding process, but maintains fine protein fibers that distinguish it from the coarser texture of suede

• Cleaning nubuck is surprisingly simple, requiring only a soft-bristled nubuck-specific brush for regular maintenance and a nubuck eraser for removing stains and scratches

• While nubuck offers some water resistance, it should be kept away from excessive moisture, oil, and dirt, and stored in cool, dry places away from direct sunlight

• Nubuck is considered a low-maintenance, high-quality leather that commands higher prices than suede due to its superior durability and premium feel

Why Trust Our Leather Expertise?

At Steel Horse Leather, our deep understanding of leather types like nubuck comes from years of dedicated craftsmanship and hands-on experience with premium leather materials. Our master artisans have spent decades working with full-grain leather, top-grain leather, and specialty leathers like nubuck, giving us intimate knowledge of how different leathers behave, age, and require care. We don't just work with leather; we live and breathe it, thoroughly vetting leather providers, studying traditional and modern processing methods, and testing the maintenance techniques we discuss in this article.

What is Nubuck Leather?

Nubuck leather is the type of leather used for a wide variety of leather products across the leather industry. It is a high-quality material whose characteristics blend the finer qualities from various types of leather, offering both lavish elegance and practical durability. The nubuck leather has a great look and an even greater feel to it.

If you are unfamiliar with nubuck leather, you might want to refer to suede as a point of comparison. Suede and nubuck leather are very similar in look and feel. However, they have key differences, particularly in durability. Nubuck is far more durable because it comes from the outer side or outer layer of the leather hide, specifically the grain side, which is typically stronger and more resilient (Omer, 2021). Moreover, nubuck typically comes from the top-grain layer or even the full-grain layer of the hide, making it a premium-quality leather. Other leathers with related characteristics include aniline leather and corrected grain leather, both of which undergo specific finishing processes that alter their surface appearance and performance. Italian leather and Italian Nubuck, in particular, are widely recognized in the leather industry for their exceptional quality and refined craftsmanship.

You may also see nubuck leather in a wide color range. Its uses typically include leather clothes and other personal leather goods. You can usually find this great material on nubuck boots and leather shoes. You may also find it in jackets, gloves, small leather goods, and other personal accessories. It is also commonly used in upholstery grade leather applications such as auto interiors and furniture.

Look and Feel of Nubuck

If you have not seen nubuck leather, you might want to refer to how suede looks. Like suede, the nubuck surface has a fuzzy and velvety texture. It is smooth to touch as well. This distinctive characteristic is referred to as the "nap" of the protein fibers, or more precisely, the collagen fibres that make up the hide's structure. The velvety feel of nubuck is popularly recognizable in boots and other leather shoes. Unlike suede and smooth leather, however, nubuck does not develop its patina as readily. Nubuck is the type of leather that benefits from consistent tender loving care to look and feel its best over time (Omer, 2021).

Research comparing leather types has also revealed something particularly interesting about nubuck's surface characteristics. Studies have found that nubuck's porous surface and absorbent nature can reduce infectious virus transfer compared with coated or less porous leathers under certain conditions, with uncoated nubuck showing limited pathogen transfer in controlled virology studies (Owen et al., 2021; Shivkumar et al., 2021). This suggests that nubuck's porosity carries implications beyond aesthetics, though this does not remove all risk and depends heavily on finish and exposure conditions.

Understanding Suede and Its Comparison to Nubuck

Suede and nubuck have their similarities and their differences. Similarly, suede is the type of leather that has gone through the sanding process. The sanding process gives suede its iconic feel and touch. However, while both go through the same sanding process, suede comes from the inner layer or split hide of the calfskin, also referred to as split suede or full reverse suede. The nubuck, on the other hand, comes from the outside layer. Both, however, usually come from the top-grain layer of the animal skin (Omer, 2021; Staszko et al., 2025).

Suede is sometimes described as "flesh side" leather because manufacturers effectively turn the hide inside out during processing. The inside, or flesh side, is softer but less durable. The finished leather product usually has a fluffy texture. It is, however, more porous than other types of leather. This is the reason why water and other liquids tend to stain suede more readily.

Another related type of leather worth mentioning is roughout leather, which is essentially the opposite of nubuck in that it uses the rough inner surface of the hide facing outward. Buffed suede is yet another variation where the inner surface undergoes additional buffing to achieve a more refined texture. Embossed grain leather and corrected grain leather are produced through a stamping process that alters the surface appearance to achieve uniformity or specific aesthetic effects.

Look and Feel of Suede

Suede is a common fabric you might have encountered once or twice. It is soft, smooth, flexible, and pliable. But most of all it has an iconic velvety feel when you touch it. Suede, like most leather, also comes in a wide color range. Suede also has different uses, from furniture to clothing. Historically, the word phrase comes from the French phrase "gants de Suede" or gloves from Sweden, because suede was primarily used for items that have direct contact with the body, like gloves and boot liners. Unlike nubuck, taking care of suede will develop a patina over time.

Are Nubuck and Suede the Same Thing?

At first glance, nubuck leather and suede might look similar, and they may feel similar as well. Both also go through the sanding process, and likewise neither naturally holds up to getting wet. Regardless of their similarities, they are not the same thing. They have their differences in materials, feel, and price (Staszko et al., 2025).

For example, while both are products of the top-grain layer, they do not have the same durability. Nubuck is more durable because it uses the outer layer of the hide, which contains stronger collagen fibres (Omer, 2021). Suede, on the other hand, is less durable because it uses the weaker split hide or inner layer. As to feel, while they both have that velvety touch, there is a slight difference. Suede has significantly coarser leather fibers than nubuck, while nubuck has very fine leather fibers, producing a finer, tighter nap when viewed closely. There is also a significant price difference between the two, with nubuck being the more expensive option due to its superior durability and premium positioning in the leather market (Omer, 2021; Staszko et al., 2025).

How Nubuck Leather is Made

The making of nubuck leather historically comes from the buckskin of deer or elk. These types of animal hide were popular around the beginning of the 1930s in the United States market. It was only when the Duke of Windsor introduced the nubuck style during his royal visit that the leather gained significant attention. The Duke was wearing a pair of nubuck leather oxfords that caught the interest of many.

To actually make nubuck leather, while historically it was made from buckskin, many manufacturers now use calfskin sourced from European hides as an easier and abundant alternative. To make nubuck, leather manufacturers use the outer layer of the calfskin, specifically the full-grain layer or top-grain layer, which represents high-quality material. The outside of the skin then goes through a sanding process, which gives the leather its velvet-like surface and velvety texture (Rahmawati et al., 2022). The full-grain layer is used because it is tougher and more resilient than the inner part, which is logically why nubuck is more durable than suede and why it commands a higher price (Omer, 2021).

The leather production process for nubuck may involve either chrome tanning or vegetable tanning. Chrome tanning is the most commonly used industrial method and yields a softer, more water-resistant result, while vegetable tanning produces a firmer tanned hide with a more natural character. There is also chrome-free nubuck available for those who prefer more environmentally conscious leather options. The choice of tanning method significantly influences the final characteristics of the leather, including its texture, durability, and how it responds to leather care products.

Moreover, since nubuck is sanded from the outside, it may leave some imperfection in its appearance. While some prefer to leave the imperfection because it gives the leather "character," others choose to conceal it. To hide these imperfections, manufacturers often dye or stain the leather, offering a wide color range including shades such as Light Mustard, Silky Ochre, and Pearl Blue. Oiled Nubuck is another variation where oils are incorporated into the leather during production, offering enhanced moisture resistance and a richer appearance. Water Resistant Nubuck is similarly treated to improve protection against water drops and everyday exposure.

Research on thermal and smoke-generating properties of different leather types has also revealed interesting findings about nubuck specifically. Studies have found that nubuck often exhibits the highest onset temperature for thermal decomposition compared with other leather types, and displays distinctive smoke-generation profiles under controlled heating conditions (Staszko et al., 2025). This means that the finish and surface texture of nubuck affect not just aesthetics but thermal performance as well, a consideration relevant for upholstery grade leather applications such as auto interiors and furniture.

Caring for Nubuck Leather

Like all types of leather, nubuck also needs some tender loving care. Proper leather care will not only keep it clean but also make it last longer. Leather can often be delicate to water and cleaning agents, and exposing it for too long to water or using strong cleaning agents may damage the leather. Proper technique and appropriate leather care products are necessary for taking care of nubuck leather. Fortunately, nubuck is easy to clean. Simply use a nubuck-specific brush, suede brush, or a soft bristle brush to do the job (Omer, 2021; Başaran et al., 2012).

To care for your nubuck leather does not only mean cleaning it. It should likewise include how to store and use the leather properly. Exposing the leather to certain elements for extended periods may ruin it. Allow your leather to rest in a cool, dry place, especially when not in use (Omer, 2021; Kutnjak-Mravlinčić et al., 2020).

Of course, if you wish to keep your leather in excellent condition for as long as possible, you will need to condition it. Nubuck, like all leather, is organic. Use and exposure to elements may dry out the collagen fibres. Dried-out leather fibers will most likely lead to peeling or tearing of the leather. To revitalize the leather, proper and timely use of a nubuck conditioner or leather conditioner is necessary. This will keep nubuck soft and supple for a longer time. Leather care also includes leather protectors. While conditioners keep the leather nourished, a leather protector protects the leather from different elements. Conditioning and protecting are very important components of overall nubuck leather maintenance (Gendaszewska et al., 2022).

How to Store Nubuck Leather

Exposure to certain elements will definitely ruin your leather. Properly storing your nubuck will make a huge difference. Like most leather, nubuck does not fare well with water, liquids, or moisture. Nubuck leather should therefore be stored in a dark, cool, dry place away from any water or liquids (Omer, 2021; Başaran et al., 2012).

Nubuck should likewise be stored away from direct sunlight. Sunlight can dry out the leather and make it more susceptible to tearing and peeling. If exposure cannot be avoided, keep it at a minimum. It is also important to regularly condition the nubuck if it is frequently exposed to sunlight or if proper storing space is unavailable (Kutnjak-Mravlinčić et al., 2020).

Preferably, leather should be stored in a dark, cool, dry place. However, some leather goods such as leather bags and leather shoes often come with special bags or containers for storage. These containers or bags keep the leather shaded and protected from sunlight, water, and dust. They are great investments especially when you frequently travel or have limited storing space.

Cleaning Nubuck

How do you clean nubuck leather? Unlike other types of leather, nubuck has a velvety surface. Full-grain leather, top-grain leather, and other leathers are often smooth. Is the cleaning process the same, or is there a special way to clean nubuck leather? More importantly, what are the dos and don'ts in cleaning these types of leather?

How to Clean Nubuck (Keeping Nubuck Leather Soft, Supple, and Shiny)

Unlike other types of leather, cleaning nubuck leather is fairly easy. While other types of leather require clean dry cloths, damp cloths, and specific leather cleaners, nubuck leather is comparatively simple. All that you will need is a nubuck-specific brush or a brush with soft bristles. Simply use the brush to get rid of any surface dirt, dust, soiling, or grime that can get caught in the fibers. For more thorough cleaning, a nubuck cleaner or specialized nubuck cleaning cloth can be used. A microfibre cloth is also a gentle and effective option for wiping down the surface without disturbing the nap (Omer, 2021; Gendaszewska et al., 2022).

We recommend using a brass-bristle brush to keep your nubuck leather clean. You do not have to brush the leather every time you use it. Regular brushing, even when not in use, is sufficient.

For stains, a nubuck eraser or even a regular pencil eraser will do the job. On the occasion that you get your nubuck leather wet, dry it as quickly as possible. You may air dry it afterward in a cool and dry area. Tracking effect, which refers to the directional marks left on the nap from brushing, can be minimized by brushing in consistent, gentle strokes.

How Often Should I Clean Nubuck Leather?

The "every time you use it" rule does not necessarily apply to nubuck or any other type of leather. You may clean it as often as you want, but cleaning it regularly, even when you have not used it, is beneficial. If the nubuck is visibly dirty after use, it makes sense to clean it promptly. Proper and frequent cleaning will benefit the nubuck in the long run (Gendaszewska et al., 2022).

Is Nubuck Leather Easy to Clean?

Nubuck is very easy to clean. Unlike other leather types, nubuck can be cleaned with a simple nubuck-specific brush. No need for heavy leather cleaning products. Simply give the nubuck a gentle brush to remove whatever surface dirt or grime it has accumulated. For liquid stains, a nubuck eraser usually does the job. Be sure not to use excessive water. If the nubuck gets wet, dry it as soon as possible. Nubuck is a low-maintenance leather, so do not be afraid to purchase or use one.

Conditioning and Protecting Nubuck Leather

Conditioning and protection are important for all types of leather. To keep your nubuck looking and feeling its best, proper leather maintenance is necessary. But what do conditioning and protection mean in practical terms?

Leather is organic. It has collagen fibres that make it strong and hold it together. These fibres also give the leather its color. However, after a certain period of time and use, these fibers become weak due to the leather losing oils that serve as nutrients. Exposure to elements, use, and time are usually the main causes. Conditioning therefore refers to replenishing the oils that the leather loses. Protection, on the other hand, aims to prevent or minimize the damage that certain elements may cause to the leather (Kutnjak-Mravlinčić et al., 2020).

How do you condition nubuck? Nubuck is a low-maintenance leather, and conditioning frequency can be lower than for other leathers (Başaran et al., 2012). Frequent conditioning is not necessary. However, if the nubuck becomes stiff, you may apply a nubuck conditioner or conditioning product to restore its soft and velvety touch. Many people use mink oil for conditioning leather. Lightly apply the conditioning product on a soft dry cloth and do not apply it directly to the leather. Moreover, only use a small amount, as mink oil can darken the leather. It is also important to do a spot test before applying the conditioner all over the nubuck leather.

For leather protection, nubuck conditioner sprays and leather protectors are widely available. They usually come in the form of a waterproof spray or water-repellent spray. These products protect nubuck against dirt, moisture, and water drops. A waterproofing spray is especially recommended given that nubuck's porous surface makes it susceptible to moisture and contaminants (KILIÇ and Zengin, 2021; Kutnjak-Mravlinčić et al., 2020).

Disadvantages of Nubuck Leather

Nubuck has many advantages. It is a durable, soft, and breathable material. Nubuck is also a low-maintenance leather when it comes to upkeeping and cleaning. Moreover, unlike suede, nubuck will return to its original color whenever it gets wet, once the leather dries (Omer, 2021). While it has its advantages, it is also important to understand its disadvantages.

The main problem with nubuck is its susceptibility to oil, grime, dirt, and mud. Its porous surface makes it highly absorbent, meaning these contaminants can stain it permanently if not addressed promptly (Omer, 2021; Staszko et al., 2025). If you are planning to use nubuck leather shoes or boots, it is best to avoid wearing them around muddy or greasy environments. They are, however, great to wear on the street or at work.

Nubuck Color Restoration

Nubuck leather will eventually fade over time. To restore its color, you will need to apply some renovating spray for nubuck or suede. If you have no experience in restoring its color, here are a few steps to follow.

First, gather your tools. You will need a nubuck-specific brush for cleaning the leather. An old toothbrush may be used as an alternative. Make sure to have two brushes: one for cleaning and one for washing. You will also need a nubuck eraser for scratches, some mild soap, a bowl, and an old towel. Paper towels or old newspapers may also be used as alternatives. Of course, you will also need some nubuck renovator spray in the desired color.

The first step is to brush the nubuck clean. If there are stubborn stains, use your nubuck eraser to remove them. If erasers do not remove the stains, you can try washing them with mild soap in gentle circular motions. Afterward, dry the nubuck. You may air dry the leather, or use an old towel to speed up the process. Next, recolor the nubuck using the renovating spray in the desired color. The spray will also protect the leather from water and stains. Make sure to use the spray in a well-ventilated area. Apply a couple of coats to achieve the desired shade, then let it dry. After drying, brush the leather with a soft brush to restore the nap.

How to Choose Between Nubuck and Suede (Usage, Maintenance, Style Preferences)

Choosing between nubuck and suede can often feel like a daunting task, especially since both materials offer unique characteristics that cater to different needs and preferences. When considering usage, nubuck's durability makes it better suited for items that require higher resistance to wear, such as footwear and outdoor gear (Omer, 2021). Conversely, suede's softer texture may be more appealing for items like clothing and accessories where a luxurious feel is a priority. In terms of leather maintenance, nubuck generally demands less frequent care, consisting mostly of brushing to remove surface dirt and occasional conditioning, while suede may require more diligent upkeep to prevent staining and maintain its appearance (Gendaszewska et al., 2022). Style preferences also play a significant role. If you favor a more refined and structured look, nubuck's slightly more formal finish is likely to suit your taste. However, for a relaxed and casual vibe, suede tends to shine with its plush and inviting texture. Ultimately, the choice between nubuck and suede boils down to how you intend to use the material, how much leather maintenance you are willing to commit to, and what aesthetic you wish to achieve with your leather products.

If you are looking for leather bags crafted from premium materials that reflect the same quality and attention to detail found in nubuck leather goods, explore our full collection at Steel Horse Leather. Whether you are in the market for leather duffle bags built for travel or leather backpacks designed for everyday use, our range offers premium quality leather craftsmanship you can trust.

Conclusion

Nubuck leather stands out as an excellent choice for those seeking a premium material that combines durability with distinctive style. Its unique manufacturing process, drawing from the outer hide's grain side, provides superior strength compared with suede, while the sanding process creates its signature velvety texture that is both luxurious and recognizable (Omer, 2021; Staszko et al., 2025). The relatively simple leather care requirements, primarily regular brushing with a nubuck-specific brush, proper storage in cool and dark conditions, and occasional use of a waterproofing spray or nubuck conditioner, make nubuck an accessible option for leather enthusiasts who want quality without excessive maintenance demands (Gendaszewska et al., 2022; Kutnjak-Mravlinčić et al., 2020). Whether you are investing in leather shoes, leather bags, upholstery grade leather for auto interiors, or small leather goods, understanding these characteristics and care requirements will help you make informed decisions and maintain your nubuck leather items in excellent condition for the long term. From the wide color range of options including Light Mustard, Silky Ochre, and Pearl Blue, to premium varieties like Oiled Nubuck, Water Resistant Nubuck, and Italian Nubuck, the world of nubuck leather offers lavish elegance and enduring quality that continues to captivate leather craft enthusiasts and designers alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is nubuck leather made from?

Nubuck leather is made from the outer layer, or grain side, of animal hide, most commonly calfskin. The outer layer is sanded to create a fine, velvety texture made up of protein fibers and collagen fibres. This process differentiates it from suede, which is made from the inner split hide (Omer, 2021).

How do I clean nubuck leather at home?

You can clean nubuck leather at home using a nubuck-specific brush or a soft-bristled brush to remove surface dirt and grime. For stains and scratches, a nubuck eraser or regular pencil eraser works effectively in gentle circular motions. Avoid using excessive water or harsh cleaning agents, as these can damage the porous surface (Gendaszewska et al., 2022).

How long does nubuck leather last?

With proper leather care, nubuck leather can last for many years. Regular brushing, occasional conditioning with a nubuck conditioner, and applying a waterproofing spray for protection will significantly extend its lifespan. Storing it in a cool, dark, and dry place away from direct sunlight also helps preserve its nap and color (Kutnjak-Mravlinčić et al., 2020).

Is nubuck leather worth the higher price compared to suede?

Yes, nubuck leather is generally worth the higher price due to its superior durability, premium feel, and top-grain origin. Its collagen fibres from the outer hide make it more resistant to wear than suede, and its low-maintenance care requirements add long-term value (Omer, 2021; Staszko et al., 2025). The combination of lavish elegance and practical durability makes it a worthwhile investment for leather enthusiasts.

What is the best way to waterproof nubuck leather?

The best way to waterproof nubuck leather is to apply a dedicated waterproof spray or water-repellent spray specifically formulated for nubuck or suede. These products penetrate the porous surface to repel water drops and reduce staining from moisture and dirt. It is advisable to apply the spray in a well-ventilated area and reapply periodically to maintain protection (KILIÇ and Zengin, 2021; Kutnjak-Mravlinčić et al., 2020).

Can I use nubuck leather for bags and accessories?

Absolutely. Nubuck leather is used across a wide range of leather products, from leather shoes and gloves to leather bags and small leather goods. Its velvety texture and wide color range make it an attractive choice for fashion accessories, while its durability from the full-grain layer ensures it holds up well over time (Omer, 2021). For premium leather bag options, you can explore collections such as leather messenger bags and leather crossbody bags.

Is nubuck leather suitable for furniture and auto interiors?

Yes, nubuck leather is commonly used as upholstery grade leather in furniture and auto interiors due to its durability and appealing texture. Research has also shown that nubuck displays strong thermal decomposition characteristics, making it a relevant material consideration for interior applications (Staszko et al., 2025). However, it is important to apply a waterproofing spray and follow appropriate leather care routines to maintain its appearance in high-use environments.

Is Nubuck Leather Real Leather?

Nubuck leather is real leather and represents a premium leather option among various leather types. In fact, nubuck either comes from full-grain leather or top-grain leather (though usually from the top-grain layer through a specialized manufacturing process). Historically, this type of leather comes from the buckskin of deer or elk, but nubuck these days is made from calfskin and other animal skin sources. The tanning process, whether chrome tanning or vegetable tanning, transforms the leather hide into a high-quality material, making it genuine leather with distinct textures (Omer, 2021).

Is nubuck leather real leather?

Nubuck leather is real leather and represents a premium leather option among various leather types. In fact, nubuck either comes from full-grain leather or top-grain leather (though usually from the top-grain layer through a specialized manufacturing process). Historically, this type of leather comes from the buckskin of deer or elk, but nubuck these days is made from calfskin and other animal skin sources. The tanning process, whether chrome tanning or vegetable tanning, transforms the leather hide into a high-quality material, making it genuine leather with distinct textures (Omer, 2021).

What is the difference between leather and nubuck leather?

The primary differences between traditional leathers and nubuck leather lie in their appearance and feel. Regular leather, such as full-grain leather and top-grain leather, has a smooth surface and smooth finish. Nubuck, on the other hand, has a soft texture with a velvety surface created through a careful sanding process of the grain side (Rahmawati et al., 2022). This form of leather features fine protein fibers and collagen fibres, which give nubuck products their unique velvet-like surface and luxurious texture. You can easily distinguish between these leather varieties just by sight and feel, as nubuck materials offer a distinct matte finish compared with the smooth surface of conventional leather.

Is nubuck leather durable?

Nubuck leather is a durable material among leather types. In fact, this quality leather is more durable in comparison to suede leather. Nubuck is made from the top-grain layer or full-grain layer of the calfskin, utilizing the outermost layer, which contains strong collagen fibres and protein fibers that give this premium material its strength and durability (Omer, 2021; Staszko et al., 2025). Suede is made from the split hide or inner layer of the animal skin, while nubuck comes from the outer surface, making nubuck the superior choice for durability.

Does nubuck leather need waterproofing?

Like other leather types, nubuck is naturally water resistant to some degree. However, it has resistance to water only up to a certain point due to its porous surface. Applying a waterproofing spray or water-repellent spray is recommended to provide better protection against water drops and stains (KILIÇ and Zengin, 2021; Kutnjak-Mravlinčić et al., 2020). Leather protector products and nubuck conditioner sprays usually offer water protection sprays and stain protection options for quick and easy application, helping to maintain the original color and integrity of your nubuck leather product.

What happens if nubuck gets wet?

Like suede, nubuck turns dark whenever it gets wet. However, unlike suede, nubuck will eventually return to its original color as soon as it dries, maintaining its natural appearance (Omer, 2021; Owen et al., 2021). This characteristic makes it a preferred material for those who want both aesthetic appeal and practical functionality in their leather goods. To avoid long-term damage, dry the leather as quickly as possible in a cool and well-ventilated space.

Is nubuck leather easy to clean?

Nubuck leather is very easy to clean with proper care and gentle cleaning techniques. Unlike other leather materials, this low-maintenance leather requires only regular cleaning with a nubuck-specific brush, nubuck cleaning cloth, or nubuck cleaner for deeper cleaning (Gendaszewska et al., 2022). For surface dirt removal, gentle strokes with a dry cloth or microfibre cloth work effectively. For stains and scratches, a nubuck eraser provides a simple and effective solution without damaging the delicate texture.

Is nubuck hard to maintain?

Nubuck is not hard to maintain and does not require frequent maintenance. It is known for being a low-maintenance leather that requires careful but infrequent leather care rather than constant attention (Omer, 2021; Başaran et al., 2012). It merely needs regular brushing to remove surface dirt and occasional conditioning with appropriate nubuck conditioner products to maintain the velvet-like surface. This makes it a popular choice for those seeking both luxury and practicality in their leather goods, including leather bags, leather shoes, and small leather goods.

Can I polish nubuck leather?

Using shoe polish on nubuck leather is not advisable. Nubuck has a porous surface structure that is too rough and absorbent for traditional leather creams or polish, and applying any polish will likely ruin the velvety surface and its elegant appearance (Kutnjak-Mravlinčić et al., 2020). For your nubuck leather shoes or leather products, a good nubuck-specific brush or microfibre cloth is all that is needed for regular dusting and cleaning. Instead, focus on gentle care methods that preserve the natural texture and stylish appearance of your nubuck leather items. If you are looking for bags that combine premium leather craftsmanship with practical design, browse our leather work bags and leather tote bags collections.

How do you get scratches out of nubuck leather?

Getting scratches out of nubuck leather is easy. You will only need a nubuck eraser or even the eraser from your pencil as a simple solution. Gently rub the eraser on the scratched nubuck surface in gentle circular motions to restore the velvet-like surface without damaging the protein fibers or affecting the natural grain of this high-quality material (Omer, 2021). For stubborn stains or more significant damage, consider professional cleaning or specialized nubuck cleaning kits to maintain the finer qualities of your nubuck leather goods.

References

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All of our bags at Steel Horse Leather are crafted from full-grain crazy horse leather, built to develop a rich patina over time. Browse our Leather Bags.