If your shoes get wet, you should let them dry naturally. Exposure to direct heat may damage and alter the appearance of them.
If your shoes do get extremely wet, a good tip is to insert a shoe tree and lay them on their side to dry. This will ensure they keep their shape.
Using a shoehorn to put on your shoes is advised. In particular with leathers, it will help to keep the heel shape.
Some shoes require a little breaking in. A good tip is to only wear the shoes for a few hours at any one time in the beginning. This will allow your foot to become accustomed to the new shoes and ensure maximum comfort.
Even if your shoes appear to still have their original shine, it can be a good idea to gently rub in a specialist cream or wax. This will ensure your leather stays hydrated and prevent them from cracking over time.
Why not keep your shoe boxes. Not only is it a neat and tidy way to store them, it will keep them in better condition for longer.
Different Materials Require Different Treatments
- Suede - sprays work best.
- Light Coloured and Textured Leather - use a light cream to avoid darkening.
- Smooth Leather - such as boots and shoes use a beeswax finish.
How to Clean Leather Shoes
At The Shoe Horn we always advise using specialist shoe cleaners and creams.
If you are unsure about what product you should use, just give us a call or send us an email and we will gladly give you assistance for care tips and recommended the right products.
Steps
- Take the laces off your shoes.
- Use a soft bristled brush to remove preliminary dirt and dust.Place your hand under the flap to keep the upper firm.
- Using your other hand, apply a suitable cleaner all over the leather parts of your shoe.
- Use the same brush to gently work the cleaner into the leather.
- If there noticeable scuffs and marks pay particular attention to any noticeable scuffs or marks.
- Before polishing, let your shoes dry for 20 minutes.
How to Clean Leather, Suede and Textile Shoes
- We would recommend using Collonil Clean & Care Conditioning Cleaning Foam. It is a lightweight, multi-purpose foam that will remove eve the most stubborn dirt.
- Spray the foam onto a cloth or sponge and apply evenly and generously over the shoe. (Do not spray directly onto the shoe)
- Gently rub areas that need particular attention.
- Using a moistened cloth, gently wipe away excess foam and dirt.
- Let dry naturally.
How to Polish & Condition Leather
- Leathers can dry out over time. Think of conditioning as moisturizer for your shoes.
- To prevent this dehydration, dab some leather conditioner on a soft cloth and rub gently in a circular motion.
- Choose a polish in a hue that matches your shoe. For tougher leathers we would recommend a beeswax polish. This will soften and protect at the same time.
- Wipe off excess polish with a soft clean cloth, and buff the shoe with a specialist shoe brush
How to Weatherproof Suede and Leather Shoes
- A spray-on water repellent is an essential way to safeguard against the elements.
- For best results, use a warm sponge to prep your shoe. The gentle heat will increase the porosity of the leather, allowing for better absorption of the weatherproof spray.
- We recommend using specific sprays for leathers, suedes and textile materials.
How to Store Your Shoes
- We recommend a quality shoe tree as a worthwhile investment. It will ensure your shoes sustain their shape and overall appearance for longer.
- The shoe tree will prevent shrinkage and creases appearing on the upper.