How to Care for Leather and Suede Shoes In a Simple Way
High-quality leather and suede shoes aren’t just fashion statements — they’re investments. Whether it’s a pair of Goodyear welted boots, vintage suede mules, or handcrafted loafers, how you care for them determines how long they’ll last — and how good they’ll look along the way. Learn How to Care for Leather and Suede Shoes Today.
If you’ve ever wondered how to clean, condition, and protect your footwear properly, this guide is for you.
Why Proper Shoe Care Matters
Leather and suede are natural materials — they breathe, age, and react to moisture and sunlight. Without care, even the best-made shoes will dry out, crack, or lose their shape.
But with just a few easy routines, you can extend their lifespan by years and maintain that rich, worn-in character that makes quality shoes truly yours.
General Leather Shoe Care Routine
1. Brush Off Dirt After Each Wear
Use a soft-bristle horsehair brush to remove surface dust, especially around the welt and stitching. This keeps buildup from wearing down the finish.
2. Condition the Leather
Every 2–4 weeks (depending on climate), apply a leather conditioner. This replenishes oils lost to wear and prevents cracking.
Recommended:
- Neutral or matching cream polish for smooth leather
- Leather balm or mink oil for rugged, pull-up leather boots
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3. Let Them Breathe Between Wears
Avoid wearing the same pair two days in a row. Leather needs to dry out fully from sweat and moisture. Insert cedar shoe trees to maintain shape and absorb odor.
Caring for Suede Shoes
Suede offers a soft, vintage texture — but it does require a gentler touch.
1. Brush in One Direction
Use a suede brush to lift dirt and revive the nap. Always brush in a single direction for a clean finish.
2. Remove Stains with a Suede Eraser
For spots or watermarks, gently rub with a suede eraser or white pencil eraser. Avoid water unless it’s a full soak-and-clean.
3. Protect with Suede Spray
Apply a waterproofing spray specifically made for suede. This protects against stains and moisture — essential if you wear them outdoors.
✨ Our Murolo™ Suede Leather Backless Mules are best kept soft and fresh with regular brushing and suede protection.
Bonus: Protecting the Soles
- Use a damp cloth to clean EVA or rubber soles.
- For leather soles, avoid wet surfaces. Apply sole guard or get them topy-ed (rubber overlays) for extra grip and longevity.
🥾 See our Goodyear handmade mule brogues with rubber soles — crafted for durability from day one.
Long-Term Tips
- Store properly: Use shoe bags or boxes when not in use.
- Avoid direct heat: Let wet shoes air dry — never with a hair dryer.
- Re-sole when needed: Goodyear welted boots can be resoled several times, keeping your favorite pair alive for years. You can also Check the Professional tip
Your shoes carry you through life — taking a little time to care for them means they’ll return the favor with comfort, beauty, and endurance.
Whether you’re polishing up your boots for the season or brushing down your summer suede mules, shoe care isn’t just maintenance — it’s part of the ritual of owning something well-made.
Looking to start your collection with footwear that’s worth caring for?
Discover handcrafted boots, mules, and sandals made to last and made to be loved.
👉 Browse Our Collection
