As sandals make way for ankle boots, proper care ensures your shoes last longer without much effort. These proven tips from seasoned footwear experts will keep every pair in your collection looking pristine and performing at its best.
1. Build a basic shoe care kit
Assemble a starter set tailored to your collection, including leather conditioner, waterproofing spray, polish, a suede brush, and a soft cloth for effortless maintenance.
2. Protect with the right spray
Apply a material-specific spray to new shoes and refresh regularly for lasting protection against wear and weather.
3. Replace heels promptly
Heels wear out fast and may lack durability. Get them replaced by a professional shoemaker early—their sturdy options extend your shoe's life significantly.
4. Refresh suede with steam
Hold suede shoes over steaming kettle water to revive them, then gently brush away stains with a suede brush for that like-new nap.
5. Use boot trees
Insert boot trees to maintain shape and prevent creases in your boots during storage or wear.
6. Avoid drying wet shoes by heat
Never place damp leather shoes near heaters or radiators—rapid drying causes cracks. Air dry naturally instead.
7. Machine-wash select sneakers
Certain sneakers handle a gentle machine wash at low temperatures. Air dry them fully afterward to avoid shrinkage.
8. Maintain routinely
Regular upkeep extends shoe life dramatically. Pro tip: Treat summer shoes before storing them away for the season.
9. Rotate your shoes
Give pairs a rest day between wears to allow natural recovery, prolonging their beauty and comfort.
