How To Clean Dress Shoes - Leather Shoe Care Guide

Dress shoes are commonly made from leather materials. Since leather is a material that is susceptible to damage from water and dirt, care is paramount.

Unlike suede shoes, leather can be more resilient to the elements, but it still requires attention. Regular cleaning, along with occasional use of a leather conditioner, helps maintain the leather's suppleness.

A good buffing session also goes a long way to keep your leather shoes looking great. This is true whether you have classic leather shoes or sturdy leather boots.

Learn how to clean your dress shoes or leather shoes and boots, and keep them in top-notch condition with this guide

Things You Need to Get Started

• Soft brush or cloth
• Horsehair brush
• Water and white vinegar
• Soft cloths
• Cotton swabs
• Leather conditioner
• Leather-specific cream polish

For Shoe Care:

• Leather Spray
• Water and Stain Repellent Spray
• Mink Oil (for waterproofing)
• Plastic shoe tree or just crumpled newspaper (optional)
• Crepe brush for suede shoes
• Shoe deodorizer or baking soda

Step 1: Brush Off Dirt and Debris

Don't just blindly dive into the cleaning process—begin by removing the laces; this will allow your leather shoes or boots to be fully accessible.

Use a soft brush or cloth to gently brush the shoes from all angles. A horsehair brush is especially effective for this task, as it's soft enough not to scratch the leather while removing all surface dirt and debris.

Step 2: Rub and Wipe Away Stubborn Dirt, Scuff Marks, and Stains

There are times when a soft cloth alone isn't enough to tackle stubborn dirt, scuff marks, and stains on your dress shoes. In these instances, a two-to-one mix of water and white vinegar can be employed as a gentle yet effective cleaning solution.

Moisten a soft cloth with the mixture and gently rub the problematic areas. It's important not to brush aggressively to avoid damaging the leather. For tighter spots or more persistent stains, use a cotton swab dipped in the mixture.

After cleaning with the vinegar solution, using a clean cloth, wipe the leather dry. This treatment helps to ensure that the leather of your pair of dress shoes remains in pristine condition without compromising its integrity.

Step 3: Nourish the Leather with a Leather Conditioner

The next step in caring for your dress shoes involves applying a leather conditioner to nourish the material. For this process, choose a conditioner that is appropriate for the type of leather you have.

Genuine leather will benefit greatly from a leather conditioner that is specifically designed to penetrate and moisturize the leather fibers. If you're dealing with patent leather, make sure the conditioner is suitable for use on its glossy surface.

Similarly, white leather requires a non-coloring conditioner to avoid any staining. Using a clean dry cloth, apply the conditioner in a circular motion, making sure you cover the entire surface of the shoe.

Leather conditioner will make the leather softer and help prevent cracking, extending the life of your shoes.

Step 4: Polish the Shoes

To give your leather dress shoes that impeccable sheen, use a leather-specific cream polish that complements the color of your leather.

Generously apply the cream with a soft cloth, using circular strokes to work the product into the leather.

Once applied, let the shoes sit for about 10 minutes before buffing to a high shine, ensuring your leather dress shoes look their absolute best.

Read related article: How To Fix Crumbling Shoes - Sole Care Guide

Useful Tips for Leather Shoe Care

Prevent Water Damage with Leather Spray and Stain Repellent

To safeguard your leather shoes against spring showers and accidental spills, apply a water and stain-repellent spray. This essential step in leather care creates an invisible shield, making it easier to clean leather shoes when they get dirty.

Before applying the spray, ensure that the shoes are clean and dry. Hold the can approximately six inches away from the shoes, and spray evenly. Allow them to fully dry before wearing.

Refresh with Baking Soda

If you find that your leather shoes have developed an unpleasant odor, a simple home remedy is to use baking soda as a shoe deodorizer. Sprinkle a small amount inside each shoe and let it sit overnight.

The baking soda absorbs odors, leaving your shoes smelling fresh. The next morning, tap out any excess powder or use a vacuum to remove it before sliding your feet back in.

Keep Your Shoes Dry and Shaped

To prevent your leather shoes from losing their shape when wet, let the shoes dry naturally at room temperature. Avoid placing them near heat sources, as direct heat can warp the leather and cause shrinking.

For best results, insert a plastic shoe tree to maintain the shoe's shape, or alternatively, stuff them with crumpled newspaper to absorb moisture and help the shoes retain their form.

Caring for Different Leather Types

Different types of leather require specific care. Patent leather shoes should be wiped with a damp cloth and dried immediately to prevent water spots.

For suede shoes that require attention, reach for a crepe brush to clean suede shoes gently without damaging the surface. Always use a leather cleaner formulated for the specific type of leather you are treating to avoid discoloration and damage to the shoe's finish.

Mink Oil for Waterproofing

Mink oil is an excellent choice if you're looking to further waterproof your leather dress shoes. After cleaning, apply a small amount of mink oil with a soft cloth, paying particular attention to the seams where water is most likely to penetrate.

Let the product absorb into the leather for a few hours before wiping off any excess. Not only does mink oil provide a waterproofing barrier, but it also conditions the leather, making it supple and resistant to drying and cracking.

Closing Thoughts

There's no better way to complete a polished and professional look than with a pair of well-maintained leather dress shoes. By following these simple steps, you can keep your favorite footwear looking pristine for years to come.

Remember, proper leather care not only improves the appearance of your shoes but also extends their lifespan, saving you money in the long run. So take the time to give your leather dress shoes the care and attention they deserve, and you'll be rewarded with stylish and durable footwear that can withstand any occasion.

Check out Stone and Clark's Shoe Shine Kit for a complete set of tools and products to keep your leather shoes looking their best.