leather

First thing you want to do is select a polish that matches your shoe color. Those that contain dyes, pigments, wax and conditioning agents allow your footwear to keep that fresh and clean appearance. This will also add shine and cover scuffs. Most are available as creams, liquids and paste.

The liquid polishes that have the foam applicator tops are the easiest to work with, but most shoe repair experts suggest that the protection and conditioning offered by creams and pastes are better. Liquids can actually dry out the leather and may lead to cracking.

Take off the laces and use a brush or damp cloth to remove dust and dirt from the shoe both on the heel and the sole. Using a soft cloth, apply a modicum of polish in a circular pattern. If you have an old toothbrush, it can be useful for getting the polish into tight or difficult areas. Put the shoes on an old, but clean, sheet. You can even use newspapers if you do not have a towel. The shoe should be dry in ten to fifteen minutes. Then brush with a natural bristle brush and buff to a shine with a clean rag. In the event you are cleaning multiple pairs of shoes be sure you use different brushes and rags for each color of polish.