Leather shoes might be pricy, but if you consider all the benefits, you will be easily convinced to invest in them, and we’re sure that they’ll be the best shoes you can have. They are made of a natural material that not only looks luxurious but one that also makes the shoes comfortable to wear. Besides, if you take good care of them regularly, you will enjoy them for many years to come. So, how to properly care for your leather shoes? Here are some tips!
1) Prevention Is the Basis
Taking care of your new leather shoes starts even before you leave the house for the first time. If you want your shoes to look new for as long as possible, regular care is of utmost importance. Therefore, perform the initial treatment as soon as you receive your shoes from the store; this first treatment will increase their resistance to water and dirt and significantly extend their life.
Special creams and waxes can help to nourish the material and increase its shine. They can be easily purchased at shoe stores. Apply these products to your shoes with a sponge or soft cotton cloth.
2) Wash Your Shoes Carefully
Dirty leather shoes should be cleaned as soon as possible. It is much easier to spot the dirt with impregnated shoes (using an active ingredient to form a protective layer on the leather). There are impregnation sprays available for all shoe skin types. This simple process will prevent moisture penetration and stop unwanted impurities from accumulating.
A simple tap on the shoe will usually bring the dirt to the surface. As for large stains, you can carefully wipe them off using a damp cloth. For leather-cut shoes, using a special rubber for velour or suede will make cleaning easier.
3) Keep The Skin Dry
Sudden moisture changes won’t do well with leather shoes. Therefore, try to avoid these and wash your leather shoes to protect them from large amounts of water.
If your leather shoes get wet from rain or other causes, dry them slowly. Do not dry your leather shoes near a heater or in direct sunlight. The skin will quickly dry, harden, and crack. Simply use a piece of cloth.
4) Caring for Natural Leather Soles
Have you ever bought a pair of leather shoes with natural leather soles? These shoes are mainly meant to be worn indoors. However, in the summer, you will undoubtedly want to wear them outside. It is advisable to put a rubber sole on such shoes. This will prolong the life of the sole even if it is subjected to unexpected rain.
While enjoying the advantages of natural leather soles, such as lightness and breathability, it is essential to apply a special intense impregnation treatment when considering wearing them outside. This is the only way to prevent water damage and prolong the life of the entire shoe.
5) Turnbuckle
Do you not have leather shoes on your feet? If so, it’s a good idea to keep them on the so-called turnbuckle. The best shoe tensioners are made out of cedarwood. The size of the tensioner should be the same as the shoe. Do not use the same tensioner for a child’s leather shoe and an adult’s leather shoe. A high-quality tensioner will maintain the shoe’s original shape, gently dry the shoe, and prevent deformation.
6) Put On Your Shoes Correctly
And this does not mean pushing with your foot until you put on the shoes. It will only damage the heel of the shoe. Hang a shoehorn on a shoe rack and use it in the morning when you put on your shoes. This way, the shoes will maintain their shape.
Do you have any other tips to share when it comes to maintaining leather shoes? Let us know in the comments below!