Guide on cleaning the leather shoes

Leather shoes are synonymous with durability, breathability, and sophistication. As leather is tolerant to tearing, cracking, splitting, and abrasions, it is ideal for everyone looking for complete, all-around footwear that’s comfortable and stylish. The only challenge with these shoes is their maintenance. Leather shoe care demands attention and care. 

We are going to talk about how to keep leather shoes clean and spotlessly attractive in the long run.

Let’s start.

Before you Begin Cleaning Leather Shoes

  1. Get a soft, lint-free cloth, a mild soap solution, and a leather conditioner. 
  2. Prepare the place where you are going to clean the shoes.
  3. To prepare the mild soap solution, mix warm water and mild dish soap.
  4. Remove the laces from your shoes so that no hidden debris remains behind and you can easily proceed through the cleaning process.

How to Clean Leather Shoes: A Step-by-step Guide

  • Cleaning debris and loose dirt

Use a damp cloth to eliminate loose debris or surface dirt from the entire surface of the shoes. 

  • Applying the Soap Solution

Immerse the soft cloth into the soap solution and squeeze out the excess dampness.

With gentle pressure, apply the soap solution to the shoes with special attention to visible dirt and stains. Do not use a harsh scrubbing motion to clean your leather shoes as it can ruin their delicate texture. 

  • Wiping Off the Boots

After cleaning the shoes thoroughly, use clean water to rinse the soapy cloth with clean water. Then, wipe the men’s big Boots to get rid of the soap residue. 

  • Air Drying 

Let the shoes air dry completely at room temperature. Keep them away from direct sunlight or heat sources.

  • Conditioning the Leather Shoes

Once the shoes have dried fully, apply a small amount of leather conditioner to a soft cloth. With a gentle, circular motion, buff the shoes. Let the conditioner stay for around 15 to 30 minutes for optimum absorption. This step will help to restore natural luster and replenish the moisture of the shoes. It will prevent the cracking of the leather shoes once the cleaning process is completed. Pay special attention to dry and dull areas and let the conditioner absorb completely. You can either buy a commercial leather conditioner or make it home by mixing 1 part vinegar and 2 parts linseed oil. 

  • Polishing the Shoes

Polish the shoes with a soft, clean cloth to conclude the cleaning process. Make sure you avoid overpolishing your shoes so that your shoes don’t end up having an oily appearance. Buff the shoes in circular motions to enable absorption into the leather and make the shoes shine. Don’t put on the shoes while the polish is still wet. Polish your shoes regularly to ensure their longevity.  

  • Reinserting the Laces - The Final Step

Lastly, reinsert the laces, and your leather shoes are as good as new. 

By following these regular cleaning and conditioning processes, you will be able to increase the shelf life of your leather shoes and wear them for years together. Also, when you are not wearing your shoes, use shoe trees (specially designed wooden or plastic inserts) to maintain their shape. Keep the shoes away from high humidity or direct sunlight (as already mentioned earlier too). 

How to Clean White Leather Shoes: A Special Use Case

 

White leather shoes require special care as they are likely to get dirty more often. Let’s take a look at how to take care of leather boots and bring back their sparkling white look.

  • White Vinegar

Take white vinegar and water in equal proportions and dip a soft cloth in it. Remove excess moisture and wipe the shoes gently. Vinegar helps in removing the grime while keeping the leather intact. 

  • Olive oil + Vinegar

This formulation is used to remove stains on white leather shoes. Take ½ cup of olive oil and ¼ cup of vinegar in a spray bottle and sprinkle on the stain. Keep it for 5 minutes and then wipe. 

  • Microfiber Cloth

A dry microfiber cloth is used to remove light soil and smudges from the white leather shoes. 

How to Restore Leather Shoes (4 Stain Removal Tips)

There are several ways to get rid of the stains from leather shoes. Here are some tips to help you out. 

  • Grease or Oil

If your leather shoes are spoiled with grease or oil stains, sprinkle baking soda or cornstarch on the spot. Use a damp cloth to rub it in gently. Let it remain for a few hours or overnight. The oil will be absorbed by the soda or starch. Then, take a soft cloth and wipe off the powder. 

  • Ink

Take nail polish remover or rubbing alcohol and dip a cotton swab to gently blot the stain. Make sure you don’t rub the stain otherwise the ink will spread. Blot gently until the stain disappears. Finally, wipe with a clean, damp cloth and use a towel to dry it. 

  • Scuffs

Clean the scuffs by squirting toothpaste on the area and then rubbing it with a soft cloth. 

  • Miscellaneous Stains

Prepare a paste by mixing lemon juice and cream of tartar in equal parts. Apply it to the stained area and let it stay for 30 minutes. Remove the paste with a damp cloth. Note that this paste acts as a bleaching agent. So, use it only on light-colored leather.

Summing it Up

Leather shoes are a valuable investment and you would surely want them to last for a long time. These leather boot care and cleaning tips will surely help you increase their shelf life and keep them comfortable and stylish.