Shoe Care & Maintenance Guide
Professional techniques to keep your footwear looking new and lasting longer
Quick Care Tips
Clean Regularly
Remove dirt and debris after each wear to prevent permanent staining
Protect & Waterproof
Apply protective sprays before first wear and regularly thereafter
Store Properly
Use shoe trees and store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight
Care by Material Type
Leather Shoes
Daily Care:
- • Remove dirt with a soft brush or cloth
- • Allow to air dry completely before storing
- • Insert cedar shoe trees to maintain shape
Deep Cleaning:
- • Use leather cleaner with a damp cloth
- • Apply leather conditioner every 3-6 months
- • Polish with matching color cream
Protection:
- • Apply waterproofing spray before first wear
- • Reapply protection every 2-3 months
- • Avoid excessive heat and direct sunlight
Suede Shoes
Daily Care:
- • Brush with suede brush in one direction
- • Remove scuff marks with suede eraser
- • Allow to dry naturally, never use heat
Stain Removal:
- • Use white vinegar for water stains
- • Apply cornstarch to oil stains overnight
- • Steam lightly to restore nap texture
Protection:
- • Apply suede protector spray regularly
- • Avoid wearing in wet conditions
- • Store with suede brush nearby
Canvas Shoes
Machine Washing:
- • Remove laces and insoles first
- • Use cold water and gentle cycle
- • Add old towels to prevent damage
Hand Cleaning:
- • Mix mild detergent with warm water
- • Scrub gently with soft brush
- • Rinse thoroughly with clean water
Drying:
- • Air dry in well-ventilated area
- • Stuff with newspaper to maintain shape
- • Avoid direct sunlight and heat
Synthetic Materials
Regular Cleaning:
- • Wipe with damp cloth after each wear
- • Use mild soap for stubborn stains
- • Clean immediately to prevent setting
Deep Cleaning:
- • Use all-purpose cleaner sparingly
- • Scrub gently with soft-bristled brush
- • Rinse with clean, damp cloth
Maintenance:
- • Apply fabric protector spray
- • Store in breathable shoe bags
- • Rotate wear to extend lifespan
Seasonal Care Routines
Spring
Deep clean after winter storage. Apply fresh waterproofing treatments.
Summer
Clean frequently due to sweat and dust. Use breathable storage.
Fall
Prepare for wet weather. Increase waterproofing frequency.
Winter
Remove salt stains immediately. Store properly during long periods.
Proper Storage
Short-term Storage (Daily)
Long-term Storage (Seasonal)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Using Heat to Dry
Never use direct heat sources like radiators or hair dryers
Over-conditioning Leather
Too much conditioner can make leather soft and weak
Ignoring Wet Shoes
Always dry shoes properly to prevent mold and odor
Using Wrong Products
Always use products designed for your shoe material
Storing in Plastic
Plastic bags trap moisture and cause mold growth
Wearing Same Pair Daily
Shoes need 24-48 hours to fully dry between wears
Essential Care Products
Cleaning Supplies
- • Soft-bristled brushes
- • Microfiber cloths
- • Leather cleaner
- • Suede brush & eraser
Protection Products
- • Waterproofing spray
- • Leather conditioner
- • Suede protector
- • Fabric guard spray
Storage Accessories
- • Cedar shoe trees
- • Breathable shoe bags
- • Shoe racks
- • Moisture absorbers