Shoe Care Tips

Shoe Care Tips

The designer shoes we sell here are an investment in your comfort and appearance. They are high quality footwear which, if properly taken care of, will serve as a complement to your wardrobe for years to come. To best protect your shoes, we recommend the following:

1. Waterproofing and Stainproofing. At $10 a bottle, DesignerShoes.com Rain and Stain Repellent is an excellent way to protect your shoes from water, snow, mud, and spills. Spray your shoes before wearing, and on a regular basis thereafter.

2. Wear and Tear Prevention. If you plan to use your shoes frequently, you may want to consider a trip to the shoe repair shop. It's a smart idea to have shoe taps and possibly rubber soles put on new shoes as a way to postpone the gradual wearing out process that comes with normal use. A $20 investment now may mean many more years of enjoyment.

3. Maintenance. Finally, we highly recommend cleaning your shoes on a regular basis, depending on frequency of use. The cleaning method depends on the shoe's material. Leather can be polished and conditioned with a leather lotion applied with a soft cloth. We recommend DesignerShoes.com Leather Lotion. Suede looks best when brushed; although special suede brushes are available, a clean toothbrush works just as well. Fabric should be sprayed with a stain guard.

In addition, shoes-- particularly those made of soft nappa leather-- benefit greatly from shoe trees, or shoe keepers. These are wooden instruments which are inserted in the shoe, and help to retain the shape and mold of the shoe. Shoe trees can help to prolong the life of a shoe by 4 or 5 years.