Instructions on how to clean leather shoes and effective preservation tips

Leather shoes are the most classy and luxurious fashion accessory. However, not everyone knows how to clean leather shoes properly and how to care for them to keep them for the longest possible life. In this article, Blog Shondo will help you find the answer.

1. Principles to know when cleaning leather shoes

There are some basic principles that you should know. Because they not only help you protect your shoes but also make the cleaning process easier and more effective.

1.1 Choose the right cleaning tools

One of the most important factors is the choice of tools. Instead of using rough or inappropriate materials, pay attention to the material of the tools you use.

One of the most important factors is the choice of tools. Pay attention to their quality, for example:

• Soft brush: This is ideal for cleaning dirt from the surface of shoes without scratching the leather.
• Soft Cleaning Cloth: This tool is not only soft but also absorbent, using this type of cloth helps to dry and polish shoes effectively.
• Specialized solution: You should choose a cleaning solution specifically for leather shoes to ensure that the contact surface is not damaged. Avoid using strong soaps, as they cause great corrosion.

1.2 Do not use wet tissues too much

Many people have the habit of using wet wipes to clean their shoes, but this is a big mistake. Because:

• Chemicals: Wet wipes contain many toxic chemicals that damage the protective layer of the leather and directly affect the color of the shoe.
• High humidity: Using wet wipes can keep shoes damp for longer, which can create conditions for mold to grow.

1.3 Pay attention to temperature when cleaning leather shoes

Temperature also plays an important role in how to clean leather shoes and is usually divided into two categories:

• Ambient temperature: It is recommended that everyone clean shoes at room temperature, avoiding placing them near strong heat sources.
• Water temperature: If you need to use water during cleansing, make sure it is not too hot. Hot water will cause the skin to shrink and lose elasticity.

1.4 Avoid leaving dirt on your shoes for too long

We should regularly check and clean our shoes periodically to avoid dust accumulation over time. Please note that:

• Clean after use: After going out, if your shoes get dirty, clean them immediately to avoid dirt sticking for a long time and being difficult to handle.
• Use shoe care products: Invest in specialized care products, they help you solve problems quickly and easily without much effort.

2. Instructions on how to clean leather shoes according to each type of leather

Each type of leather will have a different way of cleaning, understanding each method will help you preserve it better. Check out 5 ways to clean leather shoes to know how to apply them.

2.1 How to clean cowhide shoes

Cowhide shoes are famous for their high durability and natural beauty. Cleaning cowhide shoes is quite simple if you know how to do it. The process usually has the following steps:

First, use a soft brush to remove dirt from the surface. Note that you should not use a hard brush, they will scratch the skin immediately.

Next, we take the specialized shoe cleaning solution and dilute it with water according to the ratio recommended by the manufacturer. Then use a cotton towel to absorb the solution and wipe gently.

Finally, the polishing step. After the shoes are completely dry, use a suitable polish to increase the shine of the product. Remember to use only enough so as not to harden the leather.

2.2 How to clean patent leather shoes

Patent leather shoes are relatively easy to clean, but you need to take proper care of them if you want them to last for years. You should follow these steps:

First, if it is everyday dust, use a soft damp cloth to wipe it clean. Due to the nature of glossy leather, with such small dust particles, we do not need to use a specialized solution. Also, do not get used to polishing immediately after finishing.

2.3 How to clean waxed leather shoes

Waxed leather shoes are the most difficult type of shoes to clean and maintain. To completely remove wax, we clean leather shoes as follows:

First, prepare banana peel, alcohol, towel and soft brush. For small stains, we just need to rub the banana peel to clean. In case of heavy dirt, use a towel soaked in alcohol and wipe.

Finally, remember to wipe it clean with water and dry it in a cool, dry place. In addition, we should use leather wax after cleaning to increase water resistance and protect the shoe surface.

2.4 How to clean white leather shoes

White leather shoes are extremely easy to get dirty, but if properly cared for, they will always look new even though we use them for a long time. You should apply the following way to clean leather shoes:

First, apply a small amount of mild soap to a wet cloth. Continue rubbing gently in a circular motion until the stain is completely gone. Don't forget to wipe it off with clean water to remove any remaining soap.

2.5 How to clean suede shoes

Suede shoes feel soft but are also more difficult to clean than other types of leather. The process requires meticulousness and high precision if you do not want to say goodbye to your beloved shoes early.

First, you use a soft cloth to wipe away the stains. Next, use a soft brush soaked in vinegar to completely remove stubborn stains. However, you should scrub with moderate force to avoid damaging the leather.

Finally, we use a clean towel to absorb water and store in a dry place. To keep suede shoes looking good, use shoe polish to restore shine and help the color last longer.

3. Revealing simple and effective tips for preserving leather shoes

Not only stopping at ways to clean leather shoes, we also need to pay more attention to shoe preservation so that the product is durable and has a long life.

3.1 Shoes should be kept in a cool place.

Finding the right place to store your shoes is extremely important and necessary. We should choose a well-ventilated place, avoiding direct sunlight. This is the main cause of discoloration and cracking of the leather.

Use a shoe box for the quickest and easiest way to protect your leather shoes. Because the shoe box not only protects from dirt but also helps keep the shape of the shoes from being distorted.

3.2 Clean shoes regularly after each use

We should practice and maintain the habit of cleaning our shoes. Regularly “bathing” them will help you maintain the beauty of your shoes longer, bringing a sense of enjoyment when using them.

Before storing your shoes, check for any dirt or stains. If there are any, treat them immediately to ensure they don’t sit on the leather for too long. If you don’t have time, you can schedule regular maintenance for your shoes.

3.3 Absolutely do not let shoes get wet

Water is definitely harmful to the quality of leather shoes. If you accidentally get water on them, dry them immediately. In addition, investing in a specialized waterproofing agent is also an effective measure for timely protection.

4. Common mistakes when cleaning leather shoes

Many people often make mistakes when cleaning leather shoes but they still do not realize. These mistakes can cause great harm to the durability of the shoes.

4.1 Use strong detergents

Harsh detergents may clean quickly, but they can also damage the leather surface. They also strip away the natural protective layer, leaving your shoes susceptible to cracking in a short period of time.

We need to consult, choose and prioritize products specifically for leather shoes. Nowadays, finding and buying has become easier, you can buy directly on the website or go to the store to get advice and instructions on use from the staff.

4.2 Forgetting to dry completely when cleaning

After cleaning, many people forget to dry their shoes thoroughly before storing them in the closet. Although this is a simple step, if we accidentally forget it, the risk of mold appearing and growing is inevitable.

If the shoes are still damp, it is easy to create conditions for mold to grow, damaging the surface of the shoes. In addition, leaving the shoes wet for a long time also causes the shape of the shoes to change, making them lose their original beauty.

4.3 Polish shoes while they are still wet

Not stopping there, some people have the habit of polishing their shoes right after wiping off the water. But this is really a mistake, directly damaging the leather. At that time, the polished layer is uneven and more prone to peeling.

It is best to let the shoes dry completely before polishing for best results.

5. Conclusion

With the interesting information above, hopefully you know how to clean leather shoes properly. Besides, remember to use the appropriate protective products to maintain your shoes most effectively.