How to properly care for your leather shoes: a complete guide

A pair of leather shoes is essential for a
elegant and timeless wardrobe. There are only advantages to owning a
pair of leather shoes. Beyond the aesthetics, the main advantage is
the resistance and durability over time inherent in this noble material
What is leather? However, you still need to know how to maintain and care for it. Between
smooth leather and suede leather (also called daim or suede), care instructions
are not the same. In this article, we give you all the keys to
properly care for your leather shoes, prolong their lifespan, and
preserve their beauty.

The importance of caring for your leather shoes.

Leather is a living, noble and natural material. It has
needs to be nourished, protected, and hydrated to maintain its suppleness and
shine. Without maintenance, your shoes may dry out, crack, and
to crack, to lose their color, and to become damaged in an irreversible way.

Good maintenance offers several advantages:

- Extended lifespan : a well-maintained pair of shoes can last 2 to 3 times longer.

- Preserved aesthetics : the leather retains its shine and brilliance.

- Improved comfort : the supple leather adapts better to your foot.

- Protection against damage : rain, dust, stains and rubbing are better tolerated.

The differences between smooth leather and suede leather

Before moving on to maintenance, it is essential to distinguish between the two main types of leather used to make a shoe:

- Smooth leather : this is the most common. Its
The surface is polished and uniform. It is found on the majority of shoes.
dressy or city shoes. They require regular maintenance with polishing and cream.
nutritious.

- Velvet leather (suede) : it has a soft, slightly fuzzy surface, from the flesh side of the skin. More delicate than smooth leather, it is sensitive to water, grease and dust. It is maintained without polishing, but with specific brushes and waterproofing sprays.

Here are the different points to properly care for smooth leather.

  • 1. Clean the shoes

    Using a horsehair brush or a slightly damp soft cloth, remove dust and dirt. If your shoes have greasy stains or ingrained dirt, use a leather cleaning milk.

  • 2. Nourish the leather

    Once clean, your shoes need to be nourished to prevent the leather from drying out. Apply a nourishing cream or polish cream suited to the color of your shoes. Spread it in thin layers with a cloth or polishing brush. Allow it to absorb for a few...
    minutes.

  • 3. Wax to protect and shine

    Polishing is the finishing touch. It protects the leather and gives it an elegant shine. Use a quality polish, apply it in
    Apply in small circular motions, then polish with a brush or soft cloth. For a mirror effect, called glazing, you can emphasize the tip and heel with small drops of water mixed with the wax.

  • 4. Dry and store properly

    Never dry your leather shoes near a direct heat source (radiator, fireplace), as this will deform them. Use wooden shoe trees (preferably cedar) to absorb moisture and maintain the shape of the shoe. Store them in a dry, well-ventilated place.

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How to care for suede leather shoes (velvet or suede)?

  • 1. Brush regularly

    Use a crepe or soft brass brush to dust your shoes after each wear. This action helps to straighten the leather fibers and prevents dust from settling in.

  • 2. Remove stains

    For a dry stain, gently rub with a special suede eraser.

    For a wet stain, let it air dry, then brush gently.

    For a greasy stain, apply some Sommières earth, let it sit for a few hours, then brush.

  • 3. Protect with a waterproofing spray

    Suede is very sensitive to water. Before wearing your new shoes (and regularly afterwards), apply a waterproofing spray specifically designed for suede.

  • 4. Restore the color

    Over time, suede can become dull. Use a tinted spray restorer to restore the intensity of the color of your
    shoes.

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Universal tips for caring for your leather shoes

Use shoe trees : they prevent wear creases and help maintain the shape of the shoes.

Clean them regularly : a few minutes after each wear is enough to extend the life of your shoes.

Invest in good accessories : a quality brush, a suitable polish, and a waterproofing spray are essential allies.

Mistakes to absolutely avoid.

Many people damage their leather shoes without realizing it. Here are the most common mistakes:

- Using unsuitable products (shoe polish on suede, harsh detergent, etc.).

- Dry the shoes in the sun or on a radiator.

- Neglecting the soles: they also need to be maintained, or even resoled if necessary.

- Store shoes in a damp or closed closet without air circulation.

- Wearing one pair for too long without alternating, which deforms the leather and accelerates wear.

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Conclusion: The Secret to Beautiful Leather Shoes

Properly caring for your leather shoes requires regularity. Cleaning, nourishing, protecting, and storing them correctly: these are the pillars of a simple but effective routine.

Your shoes are more than just accessories: they reflect your style, your personality, and your attention to detail. A well-maintained pair becomes more beautiful over time, developing a unique patina. It is this patina that makes all the charm of quality leather.

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