How to Clean Leather Shoes

Wearing neat and clean leather shoes is a full-time job. They boost your confidence and complement your entire look. Not to mention, they’re the first thing people notice in you. They have this snug fit and luxurious feel, making them your ride or die. But no matter what, one day or another, they’re going to catch paint stains, puddles, or plain old dirt. That’s where most people get stuck because they don’t know how to clean leather shoes without hurting them even more.

It’s a common misconception that leather is hard to take care of. This is why those who own this durable fabric don’t wear it much, and those who want to buy one think it’s the trickiest job. But the reality is opposite. 

And in this mini read, you’ll learn the best way to clean men’s leather shoes to bring them back to life. Let’s begin!

Grab These Tools First

It’s important to have all the right essentials in one place before getting your hands dirty. So, here are some basic tools you’ll need for cleaning leather shoes:

  • A soft brush
  • Clean clothes (2 would be sufficient)
  • Mild detergent
  • Warm water
  • Leather conditioner
  • Cream or leather conditioner
  • Towel
  • Shoe tree

Many try drying with heat or sunlight, but it only dries up the natural oil and leads to cracking.

How to Clean Leather Shoes at Home

How to Clean Leather Shoes

Follow the steps below to get the job done correctly:

  1. Prep the Shoe

    First things first, lay the towel flat to prevent any mess here and there. Remove the laces and insert the shoe tree so the shoe holds its shape. This will make cleaning easier.
    Note: You can also use a newspaper instead of a towel. No hard and fast rule.

  2. Now, Brush

    Take the soft brush and wipe off all the dirt or debris. Do not miss any spot, including toes, soles, and seams. Never scrub too hard.
    If you’ve been wondering how to wash leather shoes the easy way, it starts with making a simple soap mix at home

  3. Home-made Solution

    Prepare a mixture using mild soap and warm water. Next, stir it until it lathers, then dip it in a clean cloth and wring it out. Make sure it’s just wet but not dripping.

  4. Wipe the Leather

    Wipe the shoe gently in circles using the damp cloth. Focus on stains and marks. Don’t scrub too hard. However, for stubborn stains, use firm hands.
    Note: You can clean both men’s leather loafers and men’s leather sneakers in the same way.

  5. Let it Dry

    Once your shoes are dried, apply a small amount of cream polish or leather conditioner, whichever is available. Use a soft cloth and go in a circular motion. Let it sit for 15 minutes and gently buff the area with a brush. 

Polish brings back color and shine, while conditioner keeps the leather soft and flexible. So choose exactly what your shoe needs.

Now that you know how to clean leather shoes at home, it’s time to see…

Some Basic Care Tips for Everyday Use

  • Clean the dust and dirt using a leather brush to prevent buildup.
  • Avoid wearing it in water as it can damage it.
  • When storing stuff with paper balls, or using a shoe tree to maintain the shape.
  • Store them in a breathable fabric bag if you don’t wear them much.
  • Apply waterproof spray every few weeks if you’re wearing it more often.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I clean my leather shoes?

You should simply brush away the dirt after each wear. However, if you are wearing them regularly, cleaning leather shoes after every 3 to 4 weeks is a must-have, along with conditioning.

Can saddle soap damage leather shoes?

Not at all. Saddle soap is great for cleaning stubborn stains. However, it dries out the oils, so make sure to condition properly.

What’s the best way to clean water stains off leather shoes?

Dampen the entire shoe gently and let it dry evenly. This helps blend water spots.