How to properly clean leather shoes: step by step

If not now, then when? We are, of course, talking about cleaning your favourite leather shoes – that task you keep putting off.

How to properly clean leather shoes: step by step

Text: Andrea VšetečkováPhoto: Ilja Hubálek

If not now, then when? We are of course talking about cleaning your favourite leather shoes, which you so often set aside. Take a look with us at a simple step-by-step guide and turn it into a small cleansing ritual. Shoemakers recommend doing it at least once a month.

When caring for leather footwear, take into account what type of leather it is. Smooth natural leather requires a different approach than brushed leathers such as nubuck or suede. Today we will focus on smooth natural leather.

1. Remove the larger dirt

Brush the shoes several times; this will get rid of dust and grime and remove the larger particles of dirt.

2. Remove the finer dirt

Whatever the brush did not take care of, a cloth will. Wipe the entire shoe with a dry cloth.

3. Clean with a damp cloth

Only carry out this step on shoes made of smooth leather. Use a damp cloth to remove any dried-on dirt.

4. Allow to dry thoroughly

Before you proceed with any further treatment, let the shoes dry thoroughly. Never dry footwear on a radiator or in direct sunlight. Not only would it lose its original colour, it could also crack irreparably.

5. Treat the leather surface with a cream

If you are treating shoes that have pronounced scratches and grooves, use a shoe cream. For shoes without visible damage to the leather, use only a colourless wax designed specifically for smooth leather. In both cases, apply the product using a soft cloth. Take care — the layer of cream or wax must be thin.

Let the cream dry and then polish the shoes with a soft cloth in circular motions until they shine.

Finally, apply a spray impregnation designed for all types of leather. It will prevent water from penetrating and keep dirt from settling. Every subsequent maintenance or cleaning session will then be easier.

Do not wear your leather shoes every day; give them a chance to dry out properly, ideally on shoe trees. Only then will you ensure their longevity.

You will master these eight little rules in no time, and thanks to them your favourite shoes will last much longer.

You will find all the shoe care products you need on our e-shop as well.

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