Nubuck is a type of leather made from cowhide. Like suede, it is sanded to create a nap but while suede is made from the inside of the hide, nubuck is made from the outside, which is much stronger and which lasts longer. It is very vulnerable to soiling and staining, and it has to be cleaned and protected with tools and shoe care products that are specifically designed to care for suede and nubuck.
Wipe your nubuck item with a nubuck cloth.
This type of cloth is specially designed for cleaning nubuck. Nubuck cleaner is typically integrated within its fibers. Wipe with this regularly to remove light soiling and shiny spots. This prevents grime from building up.
Wipe in several directions, using circular motions to clean all sides of the nap.
Make sure to remove the laces before starting.
Brush the surface with a nubuck block.
Use a circular motion, taking care not to spend more than a few seconds on any area, as this could damage the nap. This will clear the nubuck of dirt
Clean a particularly soiled area with a nubuck cleaner.
These cleaners come in liquid and aerosol form, and are formulated for use on nubuck. Spray the cleaner onto a nubuck cloth and wipe the entirety of the surface. Finish by brushing the nap to remove any residue.
Wipe your nubuck routinely and apply a protectant.
Regular wiping with a nubuck cloth will prevent you from having to resort to leather degreaser and leather cleaner. You should also apply a spray protectant at least every 6 months. Spray the item, then allow time for the nubuck to thoroughly dry before using or wearing it.
The best time to spray this protectant is after cleaning your nubuck surface.