Taking care of your leather shoes would not only make them appear more beautiful but also make them last longer. This is especially so for leather shoes. Most shoes are made from various types of leather, which have been proven to be reliable stylish and hard-wearing. But despite being tough materials, they still require a certain level of care. But they boots, brogues, sneakers or slippers, your leather shoes demand that you look after them accordingly.
Cleaning and conditioning are two simple steps that could extend the lifespan of your leather shoes by years and at the same time make them appear even more pleasing to behold.
Below Are Some Tips On How To Properly Care For Your Leather Shoes
Start Off By Thoroughly Cleaning Your Leather Shoes
Cleaning is the first and most important step in caring for your shoes. You can start doing this by cleaning the shoe with a soft brush to make sure that it is free of dust and dirt. Next, if the leather shoes has a finish, use a mild soap and a damp cloth to clean the surface of the shoe. But, while doing this, you should avoid using a sponge. Some sponges contain chemicals that can seep out and detrimentally affect the leather. If the leather is unfinished, use saddle soap. Gently create a lather and rub softly onto your shoes, making sure to wipe off any excess. Allow to dry naturally as saddle soap contains a wax that will help seal and protect unfinished leather.
Condition Your Leather Shoes To Keep Them Looking New
Your shoes should be regularly treated with a good-quality wax polish to protect the leather and give it a high shine finish. This helps to prolong the life of the shoes and maintain their appearance. You should make sure that your shoes are dry before you apply the wax polish. Also, try to avoid using unsuitable liquid polish applicators as these can potentially damage the surface of high quality leathers and often create a lacquer, which is hard to remove. When polishing the leather shoes, try to get the polish into every crevice of your shoe – may be particularly time-consuming with brogues of delicately designed shoes but it is worth the trouble. After applying the polish, you should apply some conditioner or protector, be it a resin or a spray. Remember to treat and conditioner every month or so, or more often during times of inclement weather to ensure that they stay looking fresh.
Keep Your Leather Shoes Safe By Storing Them Correctly
Storing your leather shoes correctly also plays a prominent part in how long they last. If they get wet, stuff them with newspaper overnight and let them dry naturally – but also invest in some gear to keep them looking new. Shoes should also be kept in shoe bags. Shoe bags help shade the shoes from potentially damaging dust and sunlight. Follow these rules and your leather shoes will stay looking fresh for longer.
