How to Clean Faux Leather Shoes
If your pair of faux leather shoes has become dirty, here’s a quick guide to keeping them looking like new. The first step is to thoroughly rinse them. Next, apply a gentle scrub with a toothbrush dipped in a mild cleaning solution. Be sure to scrub the fabric along the grain to maintain color consistency and prevent spotting. Afterward, wipe the shoes dry using a dry paper towel. You can also stuff a paper towel inside to help them hold their shape.
Modge Podge
If you have scratched or dented a pair of faux leather shoes, you can repair them with Modge Podge. This all-in-one finish, glue, and sealer is a great option for repairing faux leather shoes. You can use the glue to repair small scratches, or you can use it to cover larger areas. It is recommended to apply a small amount of Modge Podge in a small area first.
First, apply Modge Podge on the underside of the fabric. Once you have applied enough, tuck the fabric into the shoe. Make sure to tuck it along the sides and heel. Once the fabric is tucked inside, use an Exacto Knife with a sharp blade to trim away any excess fabric that might be sticking out of the shoe.
Lemon juice
Lemon juice is a very effective cleaner that removes stains and dirt from your shoes. It’s mild acidity can remove oil and grease stains from leather and other fabric items. Lemon juice also helps restore natural coloration to leather items. Applying lemon juice to your shoes and rinsing with a dry cloth can restore them to their original look.
Lemon juice can also be used to whiten white sneakers. Simply make a mixture of lemon juice and water and scrub the solution into the shoes. Once done, rinse them off and let them air dry. If you’re using white sneakers, you should never wear black socks.
Cream of tartar
One of the easiest ways to clean your faux leather shoes is to use cream of tartar. Mix half a cup of the substance with a half-cup of water and soak the shoes for one hour. Then, rinse them thoroughly and let them dry in a well-ventilated area. You can also use salt and hot water to remove stubborn stains and yellowing. Luckily, salt is cheap and readily available.
You can also use lemon juice and cream of tartar to clean leather. Lemon has a mild bleaching effect that can help loosen stains and dirt. You should leave the mixture on your shoes for about half an hour, then wipe them with a clean cloth. This simple solution will leave your shoes looking like new in no time.
Air drying
To keep your faux leather shoes looking fresh, you should follow these steps. The first step is to clean your shoes with a mild soap solution. You should work with the grain of the fabric when scrubbing to prevent spotting and maintain the color consistency. Once the shoes are clean, you can blot them with a dry paper towel. Dry your shoes in an airy area away from direct sunlight and heat. You can also stuff paper towels inside the shoes to help retain their shape.
Once you’ve removed all traces of dirt, you can apply shoe polish to protect your shoes from future wear and tear. You can use a horsehair brush or a cloth to apply the polish. Buff the shoe with a cloth or paper towel afterward to remove excess polish.
Spot cleaning
While the look and feel of leather shoes is timeless, regular wear and tear can cause them to look scuffed and dirty. If you want to extend the life of your shoes, consider spot cleaning them. You can use a non-abrasive cleaner or baking soda on the scuffed areas. Then, wipe them off with a dry cloth. If the stains are stubborn, you can try using a commercial shoe polish.
For more serious stains, try a solution of white toothpaste, baking soda, and water. Use a brush or cloth to apply the paste, then scrub gently in a circular motion. Rinse thoroughly, and dry completely.
