3 Ways to Make Your Leather Shoes Last Longer

Leather shoes aren’t an expense; they’re an investment. They could be the difference between whether you close a deal or not, or whether you get a coveted job. No formal look is complete without them.

But when not taken care of, your favorite pair of leather shoes can wear down way too fast. To prevent this catastrophe, here are some tried-and-tested tips to ensure that your leather shoes last you in the long-run.

Waterproof all your leather shoes

Leather shoes are expensive, and all your money will go down the drain if your shoes get damaged due to water from an unexpected drizzle or a puddle on the street. That’s why it’s recommended to waterproof all your leather shoes as soon as you buy them.

Use a spray-on product to achieve this. Test it on the shoe’s tongue. If the product works and you’re happy with the results, spray it according to the directions on the can. You should repeat this process at least once a month, especially for shoes that are in heavy rotation.

Wear weather-appropriate footwear

If the weather forecast says you should expect heavy rainfall, don’t wear your leather shoes. You may have waterproofed them, but waterproofing can only do so much.

If your leather shoes get hit with rain when you’re not expecting it, get rid of all the excess moisture first. Then, fill your shoes with packing paper or newspaper so they keep their shape after you’ve taken them off.

Don’t dry your shoes near a heat source⁠—this could dry them out too quickly and cause the leather to crack.

Prevent your shoes from getting dull

We can all agree that one of the best features of new leather shoes is their shine. With the right kind of treatment, you can maintain their shine for as long as you own them.

Condition and polish your leather shoes regularly. Don’t use wax polishes⁠, however, as they’re known to dry leather out. Instead, use a neutral-colored cream polish. It’s best if you use the polish in a color that’s just one shade lighter than the shoes. This will conceal any scratches.

If you’re not too comfortable with the DIY method, try our cost-effective shoe shine and repair services in D.C. You’ll get a professional shoe shine that’ll have your leather shoes looking as good as new.

We, at Imperial Valet Sterling Cleaners, offer laundry pickup and delivery in D.C. Our professional laundry services also include dry cleaning and alterations, and shoe shining and repairs in Washington, D.C. Contact us today to learn more about our services.