How to clean leather shoes without damaging them?
The expert guide to restoring shine and longevity to your favorite shoes
Leather shoes are much more than just a clothing accessory: they embody your elegance. But elegance doesn’t happen by accident. Poorly maintained leather becomes dull, dries out, and eventually cracks. On the other hand, a well-cleaned and nourished pair gains in beauty, comfort, and character.
At In Corio, we believe that taking care of your shoes also means taking care of yourself. In this guide, you will discover the essential steps to effectively clean your leather shoes without damaging them, while respecting their living nature and artisanal craftsmanship. A simple ritual for lasting elegance.
Preparing your shoes before cleaning
First and foremost, leather must be prepared methodically. Cleaning without care risks damaging it. This initial phase, often overlooked, is essential to successful maintenance.
- Start by removing the laces to fully expose the upper and access every corner.
- Insert raw wooden shoe trees. They stretch the leather, make handling easier, and absorb moisture.
- Dust off dry using a soft brush or microfiber cloth. This prevents dirt from scratching the surface during cleaning.
- Finally, identify the type of leather: is it smooth, oiled, grained, or suede? Each type requires suitable products.
👉 At In Corio, our full-grain leathers are chosen for their ability to age beautifully — provided they receive this minimum level of care.
Effectively cleaning leather shoes
Cleaning leather is a subtle balance between effectiveness and gentleness. The goal: to remove impurities without altering the material, and to prepare the leather.
Recommended materials
- A horsehair brush
- A soft, lint-free cloth
- A special In Corio leather cleaning milk
Method for smooth leather
- Dust off with the brush
- Add a small dab of cleaning milk to the dry cloth
- Clean with circular motions, without rubbing too hard
- Wipe off the excess with a clean cloth. The leather should remain supple, never saturated with product.
Specific stains
- Grease: apply Sommières clay. Let it sit overnight, then brush off.
- Ink or mold: use a specific stain remover such as Réno’Mat, always testing first on a discreet area.
👉 A suitable product is the key to preserving the integrity of the leather while reviving its natural beauty.
Nourishing the leather after cleaning
Leather nourishment
- Once cleaned and dry, apply a nourishing cream suited to the color of the leather (or neutral).
- Massage in circular motions with a clean cloth, focusing on the creases in the leather.
- The leather absorbs what it needs.
- Let it dry for a few minutes and brush off any excess.
- To revive the shine, finish with a thin layer of polish, then buff with a soft brush.
👉 At In Corio, we favor full-grain leathers, naturally resistant. Well-nourished, they develop a unique patina, reflecting your use and your style.
Regular maintenance: the right habits to adopt
Well-maintained leather requires little effort on a daily basis. Here are the habits to adopt:
- Use raw wooden shoe trees after each wear.
- Let your shoes breathe for at least 24 hours between wears.
- Lightly brush after each use to prevent dust buildup.
- Moisturize every two weeks, or after prolonged exposure to rain.
- Polish every 4 or 5 wears, depending on the desired finish.
👉 These simple actions extend the lifespan of your shoes while enhancing their appearance over the years.
FAQ – Answers to your frequently asked questions
Which product should be used to clean leather?
A cleansing milk is sufficient in most cases.
Can shoes be washed with water?
Yes, but sparingly. Never soak them: a slightly damp cloth is enough.
How to remove a stain?
Identify the nature of the stain. Apply the appropriate product (Sommières clay, specific stain remover), then rinse and nourish.
Should you polish after every cleaning?
No. Occasional polishing is enough. The key is to regularly nourish the leather.
Cleaning your shoes means giving them new life. It also means extending elegance every day, without ever sacrificing comfort. At In Corio, we provide you with carefully selected maintenance products designed to accompany our exceptional leathers.*
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