1. Rotate your leather shoes
Leather needs to breathe just like your skin. You should rotate your shoes and avoid wearing the same pair everyday. Damp leather is more supceptible to stretching, creasing, scuffing and staining.
2. Keep your leather away from water
To preserve the quality of your leather shoes it’s best not to get them wet! The main issue arises when the leather dries after it gets wet. As the water dries, it draws out the natural oil of the leather, losing its supple quality which makes it brittle.
3. Clean them after every wear
You should brush and use a cloth to clean your leather shoes after every wear to remove dust and dirt.
Give them a more thorough cleaning once every 2 - 4 weeks with leather cleaner and conditioner to maintain their quality, extend their lifespan, and keep them looking their best.
Never use alcohol wipes on your leather shoes. Alcohol dries out the leather and will cause your shoes to lose its colour and sheen.
4. Keep them away from direct heat sources
When leather is dried too quickly, it can lead to damage. Fast drying may make leather stiff, brittle, and more likely to crack.
The recommended method is to let wet leather shoes dry slowly at room temperature, avoiding direct heat (like hair dryer) or sunlight.
Applying leather conditioner after drying can preserve its flexibility, prevent cracks and wrinkles.
5. Check storage area
Humidity ruins the structure of the leather and causes the glue to loosen. If you are not wearing them often, clean them before storing.
Ensure your storage areas are dry and cool. Avoid storing shoes in damp places. Using a dehumidifier can help reduce moisture in the air.
6. How to avoid getting your shoes moldy
Properly Dry Your Shoes: Ensure that your shoes are thoroughly dried after exposure to moisture.
Air Circulation: Allow your shoes to breathe by avoiding prolonged storage in closed containers.
Regular Cleaning: Wipe down your shoes regularly with a dry cloth / leather cleaner / white vinegar to remove any accumulated dirt or moisture.
Use a Dehumidifier: Store your shoes in a dry, well-ventilated area. Using a dehumidifier can help reduce moisture in the air.
