Shoes: Care & Clean

How To Care For & Clean Shoes

Taking the time to properly clean your shoes can help expand their lifespan and keep them looking brand new. Different materials such as suede and leather require different cleaning routines. Cleaning shoes immediately after wear is a good way of keeping on top of cleaning your shoes but incorporating a shoe cleaning session in your weekly or monthly cleaning routine will help you to keep on top of it.  

What You Need

• Rubber, nylon or wire brush

• Toothbrush

• Soft cloth

• Leather polish / suede shampoo and conditioner / vinegar and water / baking soda, salt and water 

Caring For Suede

To avoid ruining suede, wear in dry weather as it cannot be polished and can become soaked through easily which will ruin the shoe. Sponge very lightly with a suede shampoo which can be found in most supermarkets and shoe shops. Once dry, brush gently with a rubber, nylon or wire brush to remove dirt and mud. To revitalise the colour of the suede, use a suede conditioner.  

Caring For Canvas  

Keeping trainers clean can be difficult due to the canvas material and you should resist the urge to pop them in the wash as the washing machine will weaken the glue and sole structure of the shoes. Wash by hand with a speciality canvas cleaner or make your own by mixing baking soda and table salt with warm water. Use a toothbrush to remove stubborn stains and clean up the rubber soled shoes. Leave to air dry naturally but out of direct sunlight to prevent bleaching of the canvas.

Caring For Patent Leather 

The high gloss finish of patent leather is more susceptible to cracking and looking tired than other types of leather shoes. Wiping the shoes first with a soft cloth soaked in a solution of vinegar and water will prevent cracking and clean the shoes. Leather conditioner can be used on any visible cracks. Patent leather should be dried away from heat sources.

Caring For Leather Shoes

Remove any mud or grime from the shoe by first using a soft brush. Then use a damp sponge on the shoe, stuff with newspaper or tissue paper and allow it to dry. Choose a polish that fits the colour of the leather or is clear. Wide ranges can be found in shoe shops and supermarkets. Buff the polish to a shine with a shoe brush.