How To Clean Leather Shoes
Leather shoes are a wardrobe staple, beloved for their luxurious feel, timeless style, and durability. Keeping them looking their best can be a challenge, but leather shoes can last for years if given the attention they deserve. Regular cleaning and maintenance can also enhance their appearance and preserve their value. In this guide, we’ll explore how to clean and care for different types of leathers so you can enjoy your Tieks ballet flats for a long time to come.
Supplies for Cleaning Leather Shoes
To clean your leather flats, you can utilize the following supplies:
- Leather shoe cleaner: Specifically designed to remove dirt without damaging the leather.
- Leather conditioner: Helps maintain flexibility and prevent cracking.
- Mild soap and warm water: Can be used as an alternative to specialized leather cleaners.
- Soft cloths: Use these for applying cleaners and conditioners.
- Brush: A soft brush helps remove loose dirt and debris.
Note: All leather cleaners and conditioners work and absorb differently, so be sure to test a small patch in a non-visible area of your shoe before applying to the whole shoe.
How to Clean Different Leather Styles
How to Clean Napa Leather Shoes
For soft leather shoes like Tieks full-grain Napa Classics, follow the steps below. Be sure to use a mild cleaner or soap, a soft cloth, and a gentle hand, as harsher methods may damage the leather.
1. Remove Dirt and Debris
Before you begin cleaning, it's essential to brush off dirt. Take a soft brush and gently remove any loose dirt and debris from the surface.
2. Clean the Surface
Once you’ve removed any surface debris, you can start cleaning. Dampen a soft, clean cloth with warm water and apply a small amount of mild soap or leather shoe cleaner (according to product instructions). Wipe the shoes gently, focusing on areas with noticeable stains or dirt. Be sure not to oversaturate the leather with too much water.
If you encounter tough stains or scuff marks, apply a small amount of cleaner directly to the stain. Let it sit for a few minutes before gently rubbing with a soft cloth.
Note: For Tieks Metallic Classics (Metallic Bronze, Gold, Pewter, and Rosé), we recommend only using a mild soap. Leather cleaner isn't recommended on these styles due to the metallic finish.
3. Wipe and Dry
After cleaning, take another clean cloth dampened with warm water and wipe the shoes to remove any remaining cleaner. Take care not to oversaturate the leather with too much water. Allow your shoes to air dry away from direct sunlight or heat sources, as these can damage the leather.
4. Condition the Leather
Leather conditioner is optional, but it helps to maintain the leather’s suppleness and prevent cracks. Once your shoes are dry, apply a small amount of leather conditioner with a clean cloth, rubbing it in gently (according to product instructions).
How to Clean Patent Leather Shoes
Durable patent leather can be cleaned using a soft damp cloth and mild soap, or even pre-moistened wet wipes. Use a damp soft cloth to wipe any dirt or scuff marks off the glossy surface.
If you have a light or bright-colored patent style (like Blush, Biscotti, or Mint Tieks), avoid storing them in contact with leather or materials of a contrasting color to prevent color migration to the leather.
How to Clean Suede Leather Shoes
Suede leather shoes (like Rouge Tieks) have a unique texture that needs specific care. Leather polishes and conditioners may do damage to the suede finish and are not recommended.
Before wear, brush with a suede brush or toothbrush and apply a suede protectant that guards against water and stains. Our suede leather is double dyed to achieve maximum color saturation, and applying a suede protectant may help to reduce the risk of color transfer.
To remove dirt, brush the leather in both directions using a suede brush. For more stubborn stains, brush with a suede sponge or eraser.
Store unfolded and wrapped in cloth in a cool, dry environment. Avoid prolonged exposure to water, plastic, heat, humidity, and direct sunlight.
How to Clean Printed Leather Shoes
Tieks Print styles are crafted with luxurious leathers, and many of them have a special finish that should be handled with extra care.
Snake Prints, Precious Metal Prints (like Silver Screen, Golden Glitz, and Rose Gold Glam), Metallic Prints (like Paradise Blue, Romantic Blush, and Wild Copper), and Shiny Distressed Classics (like Clover Green, Cobalt Blue, and Poppy) can be cleaned with a soft damp cloth and mild soap. Regular leather cleaners may do damage to the finish on these styles and are not recommended. Take care not to rub with too much pressure or get the leather too damp.
Our Leopard Print and Sparkle Prints (like Lovestruck, Starstruck, and Moonstruck) have a unique finish that is more delicate. We recommend spot cleaning only and using a soft damp cloth. Take care not to rub with too much pressure or get the leather too damp. Note that certain leather conditioners can also be used on Leopard Print Tieks but may darken the leather.
How to Clean Inside of Leather Shoes
The inside of leather shoes can accumulate moisture and odors. To clean your Tieks insoles, wipe the leather interior with a soft cloth dampened with a mix of water and mild soap or leather cleaner. Avoid soaking the leather. Keep your Tieks unfolded to let the leather dry and breathe.
To help with any odors, we've heard of Tieks customers using baking soda, deodorizer, and Dr. Scholl's Odor Eaters. You could also try using dryer sheets or tea bags to remove smells.
Tips for Maintaining Leather Shoes
To keep your leather shoes looking their best, consider these maintenance tips:
- Store properly: Keep your shoes in a cool, dry place. Tieks can be stored folded or unfolded.
- Regular cleaning: Make cleaning a regular part of your shoe care routine. This will make the process easier and more effective.
- Use leather conditioner: This prevents dryness and maintains the leather’s natural oils.
- Use shoe polish as needed: Shoe polish can help cover scuffs in the leather and keep your shoes looking their best. For specific Tieks polish recommendations, please email service@tieks.com.
- Waterproof if desired: Getting Tieks a little wet should not be a problem, but like most leather products, they aren't totally waterproof. You can try a water repellent spray that's safe on leather for a little extra protection.
Like most soft leather products, some wear can occur over time to Tieks' soft leather. Knowing how to care for leather shoes is essential for preserving their beauty and longevity. By following these tips, you can confidently clean your leather shoes at home and ensure your favorite Tieks remain a staple in your wardrobe for years to come.