Leather shoes are an investment in both style and comfort. To ensure your Feliz Shoes remain in top condition for years to come, proper care and maintenance are essential. In this care guide, we’ll walk you through some simple steps to keep your leather shoes looking good and feeling comfortable.
Shoe care guide
Taking the time to care for your shoes not only extends their life, but also enhances their natural character and beauty. Wear them well and treat them with care—your Feliz Shoes will continue to be a reliable companion on your journey for years to come.
You can use this shoe care guide for products like this:
1. Cleaning Your Leather Shoes
Keeping your Feliz Shoes clean is the first step in their upkeep.
Use a soft cloth or brush to remove any dust, dirt, or grime from the surface of the leather. A soft horsehair brush is ideal, as it won't damage the leather.
For light stains, use a damp (not soaking wet) cloth with a small amount of mild soap or leather cleaner.
For a deeper clean, use a leather cleaner formulated for premium leather. Apply with a soft cloth, gently working the product in circular motions. Wipe off excess cleaner and allow the shoes to dry naturally.
Harsh chemicals are usually not necessary and can damage your shoes considerably. Test any cleaner on a hidden part of the shoe first to ensure it doesn’t damage the finish or color.
2. Conditioning Leather
Leather is a natural material that can dry out over time, which may cause it to lose its softness and develop cracks.
To keep your Feliz Shoes supple, you can use a high-quality leather conditioner or cream that’s appropriate for the color of your shoes. Choose one without heavy dyes or artificial fragrances, as these can alter the leather's natural appearance.
Apply the conditioner sparingly with a soft cloth. Allow it to absorb for a few hours before buffing with a clean cloth to restore the luster of the leather.
You can condition your shoes about once a month, or whenever the leather feels dry or begins to show signs of cracking.
3. Protecting Your Leather Shoes
Good leather is durable, but can still be vulnerable to water, salt, and other environmental factors. At Feliz, we recommend that you waterproof any of your leather products well.
Waterproofing: Apply a water-repellent leather spray to protect your shoes from water damage. Test the spray on a small, hidden area first to make sure it doesn’t affect the color or texture of the leather.
Avoid Water: If your shoes get wet, blot them gently with a dry cloth and allow them to air dry at room temperature—never dry your shoes near direct heat sources like radiators or heaters!
Salt Stains: In winter months, salt can leave marks on leather. Clean off any salt stains immediately using a damp cloth and a solution of equal parts water and white vinegar. Dry thoroughly afterward.
We recommend you store your leather shoes in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and direct heat sources like radiators. If your shoes have intricate designs or structures, consider storing them in dust bags or their original box to keep them protected.
4. Polishing & Shining
If you want to maintain the shine and depth of color of your Feliz Shoes, polishing is essential.
Choose the right polish: For a natural matte look, use a neutral polish. For a glossy finish, pick a polish that matches the color of your shoes. Use a soft, lint-free cloth or a polishing brush to apply the polish evenly.
Buffing: After applying the polish, let it sit for a few minutes, then buff it gently with a clean cloth or horsehair brush to bring out a glossy finish.
Polish your shoes every 4-6 weeks or as needed depending on the wear and tear.
5. Avoiding Common Leather Shoe Problems
Here are a few tips to avoid damage and extend the life of your shoes:
Avoid Over-Wearing: Give your leather shoes a break. If you wear them every day, the leather will wear down more quickly. Rotate between pairs to allow each pair to breathe and maintain its shape.
Heel & Sole Maintenance: If you notice significant wear on the heels or soles, have them replaced at a cobbler. This small investment will significantly prolong the life of your shoes.
Address Creases Early: If you notice deep creases forming on the toes or sides of your shoes, use a leather conditioner to soften the area and avoid further cracking.
Leather shoes require regular attention to ensure they continue to perform well. Check your shoes for damage such as loose stitching, scuffs, creases and other issues.
By following these care instructions, your Feliz Shoes will age beautifully, developing a rich patina over time while remaining durable and comfortable. Treat your shoes right!
Commonly asked questions about taking care of leather shoes
How often should I clean my shoes?
Cleaning frequency depends on use. For daily-wear shoes, clean them every one to two weeks to maintain appearance and prevent material buildup. More formal or less frequently worn shoes can be cleaned monthly. For sneakers, a quick wipe down after each wear can keep them looking fresh.
What’s the best way to remove scuffs from leather shoes?
For leather scuffs, use a soft cloth dampened with a little water or a leather cleaner. Gently rub the scuff in a circular motion. If needed, apply a small amount of leather conditioner or polish afterward to restore the shine and finish.
How do I keep suede shoes clean and fresh?
Use a suede brush to remove dirt and lift fibers. For tougher stains, lightly use a suede eraser or a soft cloth with a tiny bit of white vinegar. Avoid water on suede, as it can stain or damage the material’s texture.
Can I wash my shoes in the washing machine?
Some sneakers can be machine-washed, but always check care labels. Use a gentle, cold-water cycle, placing shoes in a pillowcase or mesh bag. Avoid washing leather, suede, or other delicate materials this way; instead, clean these by hand.
How can I remove odors from my shoes?
Sprinkle baking soda inside the shoes and let it sit overnight to absorb odors. You can also place dryer sheets inside to freshen them up. Alternatively, try using cedar shoe inserts, which absorb moisture and odors naturally while maintaining shape.
What’s the best way to store shoes when not in use?
Store shoes in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Use shoe trees for leather shoes to help maintain their shape and prevent creasing. Alternatively, keep them in dust bags or their original boxes to protect against dust and damage.
How often should I polish my leather shoes?
Polish leather shoes about once a month, or more often if worn frequently. Regular polishing keeps leather hydrated, prevents cracking, and maintains its appearance. Use a matching or neutral shoe polish with a soft cloth, and buff with a brush for added shine.
How do I protect my shoes from water damage?
Apply a waterproof spray designed for the shoe material, such as leather, suede, or canvas. Reapply every few weeks, especially after exposure to water. Avoid wearing leather or suede in heavy rain, and dry wet shoes slowly at room temperature to prevent cracking.
What should I do if my shoes get wet?
First, remove any excess water by blotting with a towel. Stuff the shoes with newspaper or a soft cloth to absorb moisture and maintain shape. Let them air dry away from direct heat sources, as heat can warp the material and damage adhesives.