What do you think of when you hear the words dress shoe? I bet a quality pair of leather shoes pops into your mind. Leather is the ultimate fashion statement accessory. It can pull together any outfit and make you look more sophisticated.
If you own a pair of leather shoes, it’s essential to understand how to care for them saving you time, money, and stress.
A clean, polished shoe gives the impression to others that you take care of what you own. Don’t let the cleaning process scare you from protecting an excellent investment. With our three shoe polish tips, we will help you get your shoes shining like new.
Know Your Material
Before picking your polish and cleaning materials, you need to know what type of leather you have. If you use the wrong kind of polish or cleaner, you can cause more harm than good. Be aware that there are many different sources of leather which include:
- Pigskin
- Calfskin
- Kidskin
- Exotic
- Synthetic
Suppose you are unsure what type of material you have, it’s always best to check the inside of your sole for any symbols or engravings. You can also look at the original packaging or turn to the internet to find a similar pair.
Shoe Polish Tips: Use the Right Products
It’s time to get yourself some polish and cleaning supplies. Choosing the right supplies the first time will get the job done fast and stress-free. Before you begin, gather your products, which will include:
- A cloth or rag
- Mild shoe cleanser
- Small & large horse haired brushes
- Polishing cream
- Protective wax or cream
Be sure to consider the type of material, color, and quality of your leather shoe. These will all help you pick the right products. If you end up using the wrong products, you could discolor your shoe and ruin the material.
The Technique
Once you have compiled all your products, you can begin polishing. First, clean off any debris that might be on the leather. You don’t want to buff dust into your new polish because it can cause more damage such as scratches or stains.
Adding conditions and polish will hydrate the leather preventing cracks and tears. It will also help to bring back the shine and life of your shoe. After all that hard work, you will need to apply an even layer of protective wax or cream. Some techniques to keep in mind when cleaning is:
- Use small circular motions
- Buff does not scrub
- Use a small number of products a little goes a long way
If you continue to care for your leather using these shoe polish tips, they will keep you looking fashionable for years to come. At Dale’s Shoes, we take pride in caring for all types of materials. Visit us today to speak to a professional about proper care and maintenance. We will help you choose the right cleaning solutions and tools. While you’re there, browse our extensive stock of leather shoes, we’ll get you ready for your next pair in no time.