Shoes tell your story- your character and your perspective towards life.
If this notion touches your inner sentiment, you sure would be unvarying in keeping your shoes, Thus, it is vital that you make a shoe cleaning a part of daily routine.
While we all know the impact of shoe cleaners and shoe polishes on our footwear, there is something that we tend to miss during winter.
Since winters are for staying indoors, we often think it unnecessary to look at our shoe closet. However, the truth is, winter is a demanding season for your shoes. With all the wet roads, inclement weather, and tough foggy days, these are times when your shoes need your utmost attention.
To make sure your shoes stay in good shape – and you don’t have to buy replacements more often than necessary, we are here to help.
Here is our take on the five shoe-cleaning hacks that you need to know about. We are sure these tips will help keep your winter footwear looking good, as well as extend its lifespan.
Find out how you can use simple items for shoe cleaning right in your home to keep your shoes safe from the elements this season. Let’s Jump In:
1. Waterproof Your Shoes – A Great Shoe Cleaning Step
Storing your sneakers always presents a dilemma, with the need to minimize space and keep them looking fresh. And not everyone has those big large wooden shoe racks. This causes creases in the leather, scratches on the surfaces, tearing of the knitting, marks of dust, and whatnot.
If you want to protect your shoes from the wet winter weather, there are a few things you can do. First, you can waterproof your shoes. This will help keep them from getting soaked through and ruining the material. You can buy a waterproofing spray or wax to treat your shoes with. Just be sure to follow the directions on the product you choose.
Finally, don’t forget to polish your shoes regularly. This will not only make them look good, but it will also help create a barrier against water and dirt. Try out the Pro Premium Shoe Polish or the Shoe Cream All Polish Combo to get long-lasting protection for your shoes.
2. Clean and Condition Your Shoes Regularly – Another Effective Shoe Cleaning Tip
Keeping your shoes clean and well-conditioned is important for many reasons. Not only does it make them look nicer, but it also helps extend their lifespan. Here are a few quick and easy tips for your shoe cleaning:
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- Brush off any dirt or debris after each wear. A soft-bristled brush or cloth works great for this when it comes to shoe cleaning.
- Give them a good cleaning every few weeks using mild soap and warm water. You can also use a specialized shoe cleaner if you prefer.
- Condition leather shoes regularly with a quality leather conditioner to keep them looking shiny and new.
- For suede or nubuck shoes, use a specially formulated cleaner or brush to remove any dirt or stains.
- Protect your shoes from the elements by storing them in a cool, dry place when not in use.
3. Invest in Shoe Trees – Another Factor in Shoe Cleaning
One of the best investments you can make for your shoes is a pair of shoe trees. Shoe trees help to absorb moisture and keep your shoes from warping or developing creases. They also help to keep your shoes smelling fresh by allowing them to air out. You can find shoe trees made of wood, cedar, plastic, or even metal.
When choosing shoe trees, make sure to get the right size and type for your shoes. If they are too small, they won’t be able to do their job properly. And if they are too big, they will actually stretch out your shoes. Most shoe trees come in sizes small, medium, and large. Just remember that you should always prefer getting a larger size because you can always adjust them to fit snuggly by wrapping them with rubber bands or twine.
4. Freshen Up Your Shoes - Another Shoe Cleaning Regime
If your shoes are looking a little worse for wear, there are a few simple Shoe cleaning hacks you can use to freshen them up. First, start by giving them a good dry cleaning at home. Use a soft brush to remove any dirt or debris from the surface of the shoes.
Next, it’s time to add some shine back to your shoes. If they’re made of leather, you can use a leather conditioner to help restore their natural luster. For other materials, like suede or canvas, you can use a shoe polish that matches the color of your shoes. Apply the polish with a soft cloth and rub it in until the color is evenly distributed.
5. Check Your Soles as a Part of Shoe Cleaning
If you want your shoes to last through the winter, it’s important to take care of the soles. Check for any cracks or wear and tear and make sure to repair them before the cold weather sets in. You can also use a waterproof sealant on your soles to help protect them from the elements.
Bonus Tips for Shoe Cleaning
- Always keep your shoes order-free during winter. Make sure you use newspaper or a good shoe tree to avoid the accumulation of moisture.
- Keep your shoes dry all time. Do not place them in the open as fog can make them wet and weak
- Clean your shoes immediately after they have been in the rain
- Try to wear suede when you suspect high chances of fog, snow, or rain
- Make sure to change your socks every day as moisture in shoes can attract fungal infections on your toes
The Bottom Line
Taking proper care of your shoes is an essential part of having a healthy and stylish look during cold weather. With the five shoe cleaning hacks outlined in this article, you should be able to keep your favorite leather boots and sneakers fresh, clean, soft and looking like new for longer periods. From waterproofing sprays to newspaper inserts – following these simple tips will help ensure that you can enjoy the winter months with both style and comfort without having to break the bank.
