Keep Your Shoes Looking Luxe With This Leather Care Guide

Leather shoes are an alluring purchase. With their lush finish and quality craftsmanship, these shoes promise a lifetime of wear — if cared for properly, of course. While some leather shoes look charming with a little wear and tear, others lose their luster. Invest in leather kicks and keep them looking crisp when you learn the right way to care for these special shoes.

Lather Up Your Leather

Washing leather shoes can be tricky because they shouldn’t get wet. Wipe down your shoes with a lightly dampened warm cloth to remove excess dirt. To really get down to the grime, pick up some saddle soap. Remove the laces and lather up your shoe with this special cleaner using a soft bristle brush or cloth.

Polish Off Your Finish

Leather tends to dry out, and over time it will start to crack and flake. Moisturizing your shoes regularly will keep them soft and smooth. We aren’t telling you to use your hand cream, however. With many leather lotions on the market, choose one in the same hue as your shoe for a polish that revives its rich color.

Waterproof Before Your Wear

Wet leather can stretch, shrink and cause irreparable staining to the finish. The first step in preventative care is to waterproof your shoes with a spray. While this spray will protect the surface of your shoe it will not do much good in a torrential downpour. Whether you get caught in the rain or step in an unexpected puddle, wet shoes are bound to happen. Keep calm and dry your shoes slowly, away from heat. Stuff your shoes with newspaper to absorb moisture, changing frequently. Don’t wear your shoes again until they are completely dry or you will risk misshaping the leather.

Leather shoes are a luxury that are both stylish and sustainable when you properly upkeep them. Take care of this precious purchase for a pair that will last you a lifetime.

Leather shoes are timeless, so why not keep yours for a lifetime?