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Here are a few hints on cleaning and how to get the best possible service from your footwear.
Cleaning smooth and shiny leathers:
Before wearing for the first time, polish with a colour neutral cream or renovating polish.
To clean, wipe with a damp cloth and allow to dry. Apply polish or cream. Note that regular use of renovating polish or cream will, over time, build and even base of colour over the whole shoe.
Please note if you use beeswax as a leather protector it can darken some leathers
Cleaning Suede, Nubuck & Roebuck:
Before wearing for the first time spray with a water and stain protector.
To clean, normal dirt is best removed with a special rubber or stiff-bristled brush sold for the purpose.
Cleaning Muddy Footwear:
If very dirty or muddy remove the lumps of mud with a piece of wood or blunt blade. Dab off the remaining dirt with a damp cloth. Never allow the grit to abrade the surface. When dry apply polish or cream lightly and evenly, allow to dry and finally polish up with a clean dry cloth or soft bristle brush. Do not rub the dressing in, for excessive use may spoil the colour or appearance of the finish.
Drying wet footwear:
Damp leather especially the type that is vegetable tanned, is sensitive to heat. Harsh drying does more harm than leaving the shoes wet. For instance, it may cause the leather to harden (then crack when flexed) or distortion and unsightliness. Just allow the footwear to dry out at normal room temperature in a well-ventilated spot. Do not place in front of a fire or any heat source. To speed up drying initially and to maintain shape, stuff newspaper inside them for an hour or two.
Give your footwear a rest:
Footwear benefits from being rested. Alternating wear between two or more pairs allows the leather to recover from the build up of perspiration and will give your footwear longer life.
Repairing:
It is false economy to go on wearing shoes when repair is overdue. They may become more expensive to repair and permanent damage may be done. Have footwear repaired before the sole wears through. Very thin or soles with holes allow the footwear to flex excessively, throwing increased stress on other components which shortens the life of footwear.
By following these hints your footwear will keep their good looks and feel great for the longest possible time.
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