How to care for leather shoes

Handling leather shoes 

• Regularly check the condition of your shoes and mend them promptly to prevent any permanent damage to the leather.  

• Use a shoe horn – it will protect the shape of the counter/heel area, and in the long run, the shape of the entire shoe.  

• Avoid contact with water, grease and chemicals.  

• Do not place your shoes near sources of strong heat or direct sunlight.  

• Dry damp shoes with a clean, soft cloth to absorb any moisture, and let them dry at room temperature.  

• Avoid using the same leather shoes every day to allow them to breathe and maintain their texture.  

• Many of ARKET ́s shoes feature a leather outsole. If the leather outsole wears out, the front part and the heel can be changed and the edges evened out by a specialist, who can also add a thin protective rubber sole.  

Cleaning leather shoes 

• Regular dusting: Use a soft, dry cloth to dust off leather shoes regularly. Promptly remove surface stains from dirt, salt, alcohol, or other harmful elements while they are still fresh. Remove the laces first.  

•  Professional cleaning: For tough stains or overall cleaning, consider taking your leather shoes to a professional cleaner experienced with leather.  

Conditioning leather shoes

• Condition your shoes with uncoloured wax or cream every month and before the first use to keep the leather fresh and supple. This will also prevent the leather from cracking.  

• Some conditioning and cleaning products can, however, affect the surface of the leather. To ensure that the leather doesn’t become duller or darker, always test a new product on a small hidden area of the shoe before applying it on the whole shoe. Light-coloured leather is especially sensitive.  

• Use a soft cloth to apply the conditioner in a circular motion and let it absorb completely before buffing with a clean cloth.  

• When conditioning, temporary darkening is normal. The colour usually returns to its original lustre after a few hours or wears.  

Protecting leather shoes 

• For suede and nubuck shoes, apply a waterproofing spray every other month to protect them from stains and water. Brush the hide carefully with a suede brush before and after spraying, always going with the pile direction.  

• If you get mud on suede/nubuck, let the mud dry overnight and brush it off. Wipe away any remaining dirt off with a clean, damp cloth or use a suede eraser.  

Storing leather shoes 

• When not in use, always store your shoes in their box to protect them from sun, dirt and scratching. Alternatively, use a breathable fabric cover, such as a cotton bag, to protect from dust without trapping moisture.  

• Insert shoe trees when you’re not wearing your shoes. This will help absorb moisture and keep the original shape of the shoe.  

• Store leather shoes in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources to prevent fading and drying out.