They say that good leather shoes will last you a lifetime. Although it's hard to believe in an age where most things break after two years, a pair of quality leather shoes is one of the bright exceptions.
If you take good care of them, they will keep you company not for years, but for decades. However, a simple but regular cleaning and maintenance regimen is an important part of their life. Not only will it ensure that your shoes will always look like new, but it will also provide an activity that some men consider a regular meditation.
Many of us see shoe stretchers as just an annoying accessory that the salesperson tries to force on you at the checkout. However, they are one of the best investments you will ever make. They will help your shoes maintain their perfect shape, just like they came from the store. Get sturdy ones made of cedar wood, which also absorbs moisture and odor, and put them in your shoes after every wear. You won't regret it.What are "turnbuckles" for anyway?
1. Clean
The leather on your shoes has many similar properties to your skin. To keep them in top condition, they need to be cleaned and moisturized regularly to prevent them from drying out. If you use shoe laces, remove them before cleaning, as they will help your shoes hold on better. Remove dirt and grime with a horsehair brush. It works much better than a synthetic brush and isn't much more expensive. If your shoes are really dirty, use a damp cotton cloth.
2. Cream
Shoe polish will help restore the dull color of leather, which naturally fades with daily wear. It is always better to choose a higher quality cream that will not only color the leather, but also nourish and regenerate it. If you have shoes of a color other than black, always choose a color one shade lighter than the shoes so that they do not darken too much. If you are not sure about the shade, try the cream on the inside of the heel.
Take a clean cotton towel. If you don't have one, an old cotton shirt will work just as well.
Place it on your index and middle fingers and wrap it around your fingers so that it fits snugly around both fingers. Pull the rest of the towel tighter to make it even tighter.
Take a little cream and rub the cream into the leather over the entire surface of the shoe in circular motions.
3. Polish
Once you have both shoes painted, take the horsehair brush again. Hold it firmly and use quick sideways movements to “run” the entire shoe. Suddenly, the dull leather, which looks dull after the creaming, will miraculously transform into a beautiful shiny one. Let the shoes dry for a while and you’re done.
