How To Properly Clean Your Shoes

Everyone's shoes get dirty at some point. Taking the time to clean your shoes according to their materials will not only extend their life but also have you looking your best! Listed below are steps on how to clean your shoes.

Canvas Shoes

When cleaning canvas shoes it is important to remove all dirt and debris from the shoes. It is best to use an old toothbrush when doing this. Gently brush the dirt/debris off the shoe, using a small amount of pressure to ensure that the dirt has no bond with the shoe. Next clean the sole of the shoe, for this it is best to make a baking soda paste as getting the soles of your canvas shoes clean can prove a difficult task. To make the paste use equal parts baking soda and water. Use the same toothbrush as you did to clean the dirt off the shoes and dip it in the paste, then massage the soles of your shoes. Once clean, wipe with a wet cloth when finished. If your shoes are stained, you can pre-treat the stains with stain remover. Just place a small amount of the stain remover on the stained area of the shoe. Allow the stain remover to sit on the stain for the amount of time stated on the packaging. Make sure to test the stain remover on a singular part of the shoe, so ensure that the product is not going to fade or bleach any part of the shoe. You can use baby powder/cornstarch to lift an oil stain, leaving it on for about 2 hours and then brushing it off. Finally, wash the shoes in the washing machine on a gentle cycle, add a gentle laundry detergent and choose a cold water temperature. Once the washing machine has completely finished its cycle, hang the shoes on a washing line or place them upside down on the top of a radiator to air dry.

Leather Shoes

When cleaning leather shoes you will need to ensure that any debris/dirt is removed. Use a stiff bristled brush/toothbrush and gently remove any dirt from the shoes. Take care not to scrub too hard, as scrubbing too hard can lead to damages to the shoe such as scratches. Ensure that you wipe all grease and grime from the shoes surface, to do this you will need a clean and dry cloth. Gently wipe away any grease or grime on the shoe. Next, using a damp cloth, wipe down the surface of the shoe. Make Sure not to soak the leather as this can cause damage to the shoe. Then, air dry the shoes. It is very important that you give leather shoes an ample amount of time to air dry once you have finished the cleaning process and before you wear them. When air drying the shoe make sure that it is kept away from direct sunlight, air vents and heat. Finally, Treat the leather with a cream leather polish, using a soft cloth and allow to sir for a few minutes, then take a cloth and buff the leather to a shine. This helps to preserve and protect your shoe.

Suede shoes 

 It is important to clean all debris and dirt off the shoe before you start cleaning. Make Sure that you use a soft shoe brush that has been specifically made for suede shoes. Brush lightly over the surface of the shoes to remove any dirt or debris. Be sure not to apply too much pressure as this can scratch/damage the shoe. When brushing make sure that you brush in the same direction, as brushing in different directions can make the suede appear to be two different colours. Never use a wire brush on suede shoes. Use a rubber to eliminate any smudges off the suede. Sometimes suede shoes get smudged and a rubber is the simplest way to remove these. Always treat the suede with silicone spray as this will help prevent new stains or water damage to suede shoes. Once you have finished removing the dirt and smudges, gently spray the surface with the silicone spray. This will enhance the life of your shoes.
 

Vinyl Shoes

When cleaning any type of shoe it is important that the dirt and debris are removed using the correct brush and technique. For Vinyl shoes you will need a toothbrush or a soft shoe brush. The first step is to brush any dirt and debris off the surface of the shoe. Removing light scuffs has never been easier than with rubber. Gently erase the marks with a rubber,  being sure not to use too much pressure. Next, you will need to clean the surface of the shoe with a damp cloth, get a clean dry cloth and dampen it in warm water. You can also add a small drop of mild laundry detergent to the cloth. Gently wash the surface of the shoe, if you have used any soap be sure to use a clean damp cloth to wipe off any remaining soap on the shoes. Once you have finished wiping down the shoes, allow them to air dry before you start wearing them again. Place the shoes in a safe place away from hea, direct sunlight and air vents. Allow at least 30 minutes for them to dry before you wear them.