Take a look at your shoes. Do they happen to be leather? If yes, you've come to the right place! It would be safe to assume that most of your shoes are different kinds of leather, from full-grain to split-suede. These tanned hides and skins are reliable, stylish, and hard-wearing. But, despite being strong natural materials, they still require a certain level of care.
Whether your shoes are boots, brogues, slippers, or sneakers, your leather shoes require that you look after them. Cleaning and conditioning are two simple steps, but ones that could extend the lifespan by years. So unlace your shoes, show them some love and invest in the best in shoe care.'
The first and arguably most important step in caring for your shoes is simple: keep them clean. But, depending on the type of leather your shoes are crafted from, the method can change.
Begin, whatever the leather, by making sure it is free of dust and dirt by giving it a quick clean with a soft brush. Leather shoe care
Next, if the leather has a finish, use a mild soap and a damp cloth to clean your shoe's surface. Sponges contain chemicals, so it would be wise to refrain from those that affect the leather.
If the leather is unfinished, it is best to use saddle soap. Gently create a lather and rub softly onto your shoes, making sure to wipe off any excess product. Allow drying naturally as saddle soap contains a wax that will help seal and protect unfinished leather. If your shoes are water or salt-stained, take a mixture of two parts water to one white vinegar, and apply it to the affected areas, wiping until the stains disappear.
Begin by ensuring your leather shoes are dry before the application and do your best not to use random liquid polish applicators. These can potentially damage the surface of high-quality leathers and often create a hard to remove lacquer. Invest in a good kit!
Next, apply some protector or conditioner, whether it be resin or a spray. The same also goes for suede — which arguably needs more protection than any other leather. Treating your shoes by keeping them clean every month will ensure that they remain durable through harsh weather or the sun.
Storing your shoes correctly also plays a prominent part in how long they last. If they happen to get wet, fill them with newspaper overnight and let them dry naturally — but also invest in some gear to keep them looking new.
Did you know that the most critical thing you can do to keep your shoes in shape and looking great is to use shoe trees? Choosing high-quality cedar shoe trees with natural antibacterial properties and a fresh fragrance will absorb moisture and prevent the dreaded crumpled and turned-up toe effect.
Leather shoes should also be kept in shoe bags – which help shade the shoes from potentially damaging dust and sunlight.
Follow these rules, and your shoes will stay looking fresh for much longer. If you need them cleaned, do your research to find someone who'll do a good job, and try swapping out your laces every six months to give your shoes new life.
Here's five shoe recommendation to add to your collection. Our shoes are comfortable and are built to last.
Lorenzo leather monk strap sneakers