How to Clean and Protect Leather Shoes
You’ve probably asked yourself, “How to clean and protect leather shoes?” Luckily, there are a few tips you can use to care for your shoes. These include repairing stains, restoring shine, and adding a protective layer. You can also use these tips to clean and maintain suede shoes.
Repairing stains
The first step to repair stains on leather shoes is to clean the area. To do this, cut up a piece of cotton tee and then trim off any flapping leather. Then, use a shoe glue or shoe cream to cover the stain. This step is the most time-consuming but will leave your shoes looking new again.
Another option is to use petroleum jelly, which absorbs moisture. This method can be done overnight or for a few days. You can also use a small amount of saddle soap, also known as leather soap, on the stain. This product is readily available at most shoe stores that sell leather goods. You can also order it online. This product will remove any traces of polish and oil from the leather.
If you can’t find petroleum jelly, you can try applying some rubbing alcohol or polish remover. After rubbing, make sure to use a clean cloth to wipe away the residue. You can also try applying toothpaste. If possible, use non-gel toothpaste, as it is gentler on the leather.
Restoring shine
Leather shoes need periodic care in order to keep them in pristine condition. Thankfully, Clarks has a range of products that can provide a convenient solution for restoring shine. The Quick Shine Sponge helps to moisturize the leather, while the Cream Polish adds a long-lasting finish. Water and stain protectants can also help protect the leather from damage and keep your shoes looking great for years to come.
First, apply a shoe polish. This will bring back the original color and provide the leather with essential oils and nutrients. You should apply the polish in a circular motion and allow it to dry. You can also use a brush to give the shoes a matte finish. The best type of polish to use is a cream or wax-based formula.
Once you have applied the polish, you can buff it to create a natural shine. If you want to achieve a high-gloss shine, you can use a colored polish. However, keep in mind that the color will not last forever, so it is best to use colorless polish instead. Once you have applied the polish, you can use a pig hair brush or a polishing glove to buff the shoes.
Adding a layer of protection
Leather shoes can be damaged by rain and the sun. Protecting them can help extend their life. But you don’t have to stop there. You can add a protective layer monthly or daily to keep them in tiptop shape. Leather protectors can also help protect them when they are stored.
Rubber is not the best option for soles of leather shoes. While they can protect them from scratches, they can also cause balance issues and increase the force on insoles and heels. That’s why many luxury brands don’t recommend adding a protective layer to new shoes. And they need to be properly sanded down before applying the rubber.
You can also use a waterproofing spray on your leather shoes. This type of spray will protect them from water damage, while also filling in any scuff marks on them. In addition, it forms a base coat for a mirror shine.
Cleaning suede shoes
Cleaning suede shoes is a delicate process that should be performed with care. It is important to rub gently in the direction of the grain of the suede. This will help remove surface materials and unseen dust. Then, you can use a brush to scrub away any excess material and rinse off the suede with clean water.
If you’re not too keen on soaking your shoes in water, try using a suede cleaner. These cleaners are not only great for shoes, but can also be used for suede clothing and bags. Some suede cleaners are particularly effective on sneakers made for men and women as they often have set-in stains. If a stain is large enough, you might want to consider using a more expensive cleaning solution, but this is not always necessary.
If a stains is small, you can also use a suede eraser or a clean block eraser to remove it. Be sure to apply a light amount of white vinegar to the stain, so that you don’t damage it. If you’re concerned about the durability of suede, you can also use an emery board nail file to buff out stains, but make sure to do so carefully. This will prevent further damage to suede.
