Your leather and suede shoes are not just fashion statements; they're investments in style and durability. Proper care ensures your footwear remains in top-notch condition for years and years. In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the art of leather and suede shoe care, highlighting the effectiveness of Dr. Martens shoe care products in preserving and enhancing the longevity of your beloved footwear.
Understanding Leather and Suede:
Before diving into the care routine, let’s go over the unique characteristics of leather and suede. Leather is a natural material known for its durability and luxurious feel, while suede is a softer, napped leather prized for its velvety texture. Both materials require specific care to maintain their appearance and integrity over time, and it’s important to treat them specifically.
Dr. Martens Shoe Care Range:
Dr. Martens, renowned for its iconic boots and footwear, offers a comprehensive range of shoe care products specifically designed to enhance and extend the life of your leather and suede shoes. From cleaners and conditioners to protectors and polishes, each product is formulated to nourish and protect the appearance of your beloved footwear. These shoes are an investment and need to be treated to some TLC every now and then.
Cleaning Leather:
Begin your leather shoe care regimen by gently removing dirt and grime using Jason Markk Premium Shoe Cleaner. This specially formulated cleaner effectively lifts stains and residues without stripping away the leather's natural oils.
1. Apply the cleaner using a soft cloth or brush. Most standard leather is durable and can be cleaned with a standard brush (a soft nail brush, or a clean soft toothbrush) but if you are working with something more delicate, use a cloth. Apply a generous amount of cleaner directly to the brush or cloth, then dip in water, shake off excess water with a brush, or wring out your cloth, and apply to the leather in circular motions.
2. Wipe off any excess product and dry with a microfiber cloth.
3. Allow your shoes to dry completely before proceeding to the next step.
Conditioning Leather:
Once your leather shoes are clean and dry, it's time to replenish their moisture with Dr. Martens Wonder Balsam. This rich conditioning treatment restores suppleness and prevents cracking or splitting, making sure your leather shoes stay soft and flexible.
1. Using a clean cloth, massage the Wonder Balsam into the leather, focusing on areas prone to dryness such as the toe caps and heels.
2. Let it sit: Allow the Wonder Balsam to sit on the leather for approximately 10-15 minutes. This gives the product time to penetrate the leather and nourish it from within.
3. Then, use a clean cloth to buff off any excess Wonder Balsam from the surface of the leather. This helps to remove any residue and achieve a smooth finish.
Protecting Leather:
Shield your leather shoes from the elements with Dr. Martens Ultra Protector Spray. This water-based formula creates an invisible barrier against UV damage, water, dirt, and stains, keeping your shoes looking fresh and pristine.
1. Hold the spray bottle approximately 12 inches away from your shoes and apply a light, even coat.
2. Leave the product on for 10 minutes or so, then wipe away excess moisture.
3. Allow the protector to dry completely before wearing your shoes outdoors, at least 1-2 hours.
Optional: If you live in a really wet climate or are walking in dirty areas, snow, or salted streets, you could repeat the application for extra protection.
Pro Tip: We recommend using Ultra Protector outside or in a well-ventilated area, it has a bit of an odor.
Polishing Leather:
For extra shine and polish, Dr. Martens offers a range of Shoe Polishes in various colors to match your footwear. They come in classic jars or a handy cream tube version.
1. Choose a polish that matches the shade of your leather shoes and apply it sparingly using a soft cloth or brush. Not sure which colour to use? We carry Black and Neutral, Black works with black leather, and Neutral works for red, brown, and tan leather.
2. Buff the polish in circular motions until you achieve a brilliant shine. For a mirror-like finish, finish off with a final buff using a clean microfiber cloth.
There you have it, all the tips and tricks to keeping your leather shoes supple and protected for years to come! Next up: Suede.
Cleaning Suede:
When it comes to suede shoe care, prevention is key. As soon as your shoes get dirty, it's best to clean them as soon as possible so the stains don't set.
1. Use Dr. Martens Suede Cleaner to remove dirt and stains from your suede shoes. Give the bottle a good shake, spray on a clean damp cloth, then gently work the cleaner in all over the suede, focusing on stained areas.
2. Once you’ve scrubbed the entire boot, use a clean, damn sponge or cloth to wipe lightly to remove excess cleaner. Be careful not to get the suede too wet.
3. Leave to dry naturally.
Optional: use a the soft rubber side of the suede brush to sweep lightly over the suede, working in the same direction. Allow the cleaner to dry completely before brushing the nap back into place with a suede brush.
Protecting Suede:
Shield your suede shoes from the elements with Dr. Martens Ultra Protector Spray. This water-based formula creates an invisible barrier against UV damage, water, dirt, and stains, keeping your shoes looking fresh and pristine.
1. Hold the spray bottle approximately 12 inches away from your shoes and apply a light, even coat.
2. Leave the product on for 10 minutes or so, then pat dry with a clean dry cloth.
3. Allow the protector to dry completely before wearing your shoes outdoors, at least 1-2 hours.
Optional: If you live in a really wet climate or are walking in dirty areas, snow, or salted streets, you could repeat the application for extra protection.
Pro Tip: We recommend using Ultra Protector outside or in a well-ventilated area, it has a bit of an odor.
Although suede may seem intimidating, with the right care and products on your side, you can keep your shoes clean and protected with ease. Next, we’ll discuss maintenance tips to store your shoes properly.
Maintenance Tips:
Store your leather and suede shoes in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent fading and discolouration. Use shoe trees to maintain the shape of your shoes and absorb excess moisture. Rotate your shoes regularly to allow them to air out and prevent excessive wear in specific areas.
With the right care and attention, your leather and suede shoes can withstand the test of time and remain staples in your wardrobe for years to come. By incorporating Dr. Martens shoe care products into your maintenance routine, you can ensure that your footwear stays looking as good as new, every step of the way. So go ahead, invest in quality care for your leather and suede shoes, and step out in style with confidence.