SHOE ENVY
EVERYMAN’S GUIDE TO EASY SHOE CARE.
Why splurge on shoes to not care for them? Caring for your shoes will extend the life and appeal of your shoe. You spend good money on shoes so we are here to help you keep them looking fresh till death. (R.I.P.)
First off, never polish your shoes without cleaning them first. All you need is a little soap, a little water, and a little elbow grease to get the job done. Purchase a shoe care kit with a good cleaner and conditioner. Never use any cleaner that contains an acid or a detergent, which are damaging to fine leather and age the shoe. Also invest in a high-quality shoe polish paste or cream to moisturize the shoe. Never use a liquid polish on leather shoes. Lastly, you’ll need soft cotton cloths and a shoe brush for buffing.
FOLLOW THESE TPS AND TRICKS:
TIP
01
POLISH
LEATHER OFTEN
As soon as you take your new shoes out of the box, polish them. Try to find a polish with shea butter and milk oil to balance polishing and conditioning.
TIP
02
PROTECT &
BRUSH SUEDE
Use a protective suede spray to resists water, salt, and mud. You should also commit to a rubber eraser followed by a soft brush (brushed in one direction). Never use polish on suede.
TIP
03
CARE FOR
WET SHOES
If you find yourself caught in a sudden downpour, save your shoes by drying them as soon as you get home by stuffing them with newspaper. Keep away from direct heat because it can dry the leather too fast, causing it to crack.
TIP
04
HAND
WASH CANVAS
The best way to clean your canvas sneakers is by hand with fabric shampoo and water.
TIP
05
NO MORE
SMELLY SHOES
Aside from constantly washing your feet and socks regularly, also replace your insoles. No matter how much you favor one pair of shoes, don't wear the same pair daily.
TIP
06
SHOE
WHITENING
Bleaching shoes is not advised. Instead create a 50/50 mixture of water and lemon juice. For more serious stains, mix a tablespoon of baking soda with a touch of water and rub the sticky paste onto the spot.
TIP
07
WATERPROOF
YOUR SHOES
A spray-on water repellent is essential. Before applying, use a warm sponge to prep your shoe for better absorption. This will prevent many future stains and possible damages.
TIP
08
PLANT A
SHOE TREE
Leave your shoes on cedar shoe trees when not wearing them. This can extend your shoe life up to 30% because shoe trees absorb moisture and returning shoes back their original shape.
TIP
09
CAUTION FOR
PATENT LEATHER
Patent leather is treated and finished differently than regular leather. Since it is more sensitive to scuffs, soaps, and polishes, always use a cloth over a brush to clean.
REMEMBER:
An entire outfit can be ruined with worn out shoes. Begin to build a collection of two or three pairs of quality shoes to have a rotation where you never wear one pair two days in a row. This is underrated advice because it seems costly and unnecessary, however, considering that a quality pair of shoes can last decades and then some with proper care, having multiple pairs is reasonable, this will extend the lifespan of your shoes dramatically. #ShoeHealth (R.I.P.)
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