How to Clean Silk and Satin Wedding Shoes (Without Damaging Them)

Your wedding shoes carried you through one of the most memorable days of your life, but after an outdoor celebration, grass or dirt stains can leave their mark. The good news? You can safely clean your silk or satin wedding shoes at home with a few simple tools and a little patience.

Follow this step-by-step guide to restore your Bella Belle bridal shoes to their near-original glow.

Step 1. Brush away any loose dirt or debris. 

Before applying any liquid, use a soft toothbrush to gently remove visible dirt or dust. Be especially careful around embroidered or beaded areas.

Removing this loose dirt first prevents it from spreading or embedding deeper into the silk or satin during cleaning.

Once you have removed the loose dirt with your toothbrush, clean your toothbrush before the next step.

Step 2: Create a gentle cleaning solution.

In a small cup, mix three parts cold water to one part mild detergent.

If your shoes only have light stains, dilute the soap further (four or five parts water to one part detergent). The goal is to lift dirt without over-saturating the delicate fabric. However, the lowest ratio we recommend is 3 parts water to 1 part detergent, as you want to protect the delicate silk / satin from being damaged by the soap. 

Step 3: Gently brush the dirt using the solution. 

Dip your clean toothbrush into the solution and tap off excess water. Too much moisture can leave water marks once the shoes dry.
Brush the stained area gently using small circular motions. Avoid rubbing too hard or working in one spot for too long; this could push dirt deeper into the fabric.

You may need to repeat this process a few times for heavier stains. After each attempt, gently blot the area with a dry cloth to lift excess moisture.

Step 4: Dry your shoes overnight. 

After cleaning, pat the shoes with a clean, dry towel to remove remaining moisture.
Then, place them in a cool, dry area, away from direct sunlight or heat, and let them air dry overnight.

By morning, your silk or satin wedding shoes should look fresh and elegant again. While they may not appear brand-new, these steps will significantly improve their appearance and extend their lifespan.

Pro tip: Stuff the toes with tissue paper while drying to help maintain their shape. 

Prevent Future Stains

• Apply a fabric protector spray formulated for silk or satin before wearing your shoes outdoors.
  

• Store your shoes in dust bags or their original box to protect against dust and sunlight.
  

• For deeper cleaning or restoration, consult a professional shoe cleaner specializing in bridal or couture materials.

When to Call a Professional

If your shoes have wine, oil, or heavy dirt stains, or intricate embroidery that’s difficult to clean, it’s best to take them to a professional cleaner familiar with bridal fabrics. They’ll know how to treat stains without harming the silk fibers or beadwork.

For more tips on care and maintenance, explore our Bella Belle Shoe Care Guide, your go-to resource for keeping your wedding shoes beautiful long after the big day.