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29/11/2025

How to Care for Leather Shoes? Do It Right!

You probably know the feeling: you buy a beautiful pair of leather shoes but aren’t exactly sure how to take care of them. Don’t worry! We’re here to give you clear advice so your shoes stay looking like new for longer.

What do we mean by shoe care?

Shoe care can be interpreted in different ways. It revolves around three important steps: cleaning, recoloring, and protecting. All three are essential to keep your shoes in top condition. Below, we explain each step in detail.

1. Cleaning the shoes

Proper care always starts with cleaning the shoes. Use a special cleaning product, such as Shoeboy Multi Clean, together with a brush. Here’s how it works:

1. Lightly moisten the Shoeboy Multi Clean brush with a little water.
2. Press the brush firmly against the shoe; this will release the cleaning product from the tube and form a foamy substance together with the water.
3. Gently scrub the shoes with the foam to remove dirt and stains without damaging the leather.

After cleaning, allow the shoes to dry completely before moving on to the next step.

2. Recoloring the shoes

Over time, leather shoes may fade or show minor damage. This is normal, as leather is a natural material that requires regular maintenance.

When and how to recolor?

Make sure the shoes are thoroughly cleaned (step 1) and fully dry before recoloring. Then choose the right product to restore the color or repair any damage: use shoe polish to refresh slightly faded shoes, or paint balm for repairing damaged leather. After recoloring, always polish the shoes with a cloth.

Shoe polish:

• Used to restore the original color of slightly faded shoes.
• Apply using the sponge on the tube.

Paint balm:

• Ideal for genuinely damaged leather.
• Apply with a cloth, as there is no sponge on the tube.
• Apply small amounts and build up if needed.

After recoloring, let the shoes rest overnight so the color can fully absorb into the leather.

Polishing the shoes:

• After resting overnight, use a soft cloth to gently rub or “polish” the shoes.
• The goal is to evenly distribute the added color and create a beautiful shine without damaging the leather.

Your shoes now look as good as new!

3. Protecting the shoes

Finally, it’s important to protect your shoes against water and dirt. Use a water-repellent spray such as Collonil Carbon Pro. These products use nanotechnology to make your shoes water- and dirt-resistant. Note: Patent leather should never be impregnated!

Tips for applying the spray:

• Spray from about 30 cm away.
• Do not apply too much at once; the shoes should not become wet.
• Allow the shoes to absorb the spray for 20 minutes for optimal protection.
• Repeat roughly once every two to three weeks.

Important to know

Not all products and steps are suitable for every type of leather. Always check the type of leather your shoes are made from to choose the correct care product.

By following these three steps, your shoe collection will stay beautiful, and you will enjoy your investment longer. Shoe care has never been easier!

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