A few minutes of care now and then keeps your shoes looking good and helps them last longer. The tips below are general. Always check the care information on the product page or the shoe's label first, and test a cleaner on a small hidden spot before you use it on the whole shoe.
Everyday habits that make a difference
- Let shoes dry between wears. Shoes take up moisture during the day. If you wear the same type of shoe every day, alternating two pairs gives each pair time to dry out completely.
- Loosen laces and straps when you take your shoes off, instead of pushing them off with your other foot. This keeps the heel in shape.
- Use a shoehorn for shoes that fit snugly around the heel.
- Store shoes in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and heaters. Stuff boots and loafers with paper so they keep their shape.
Knit, mesh and fabric sneakers
- Remove the laces and, if possible, the insoles.
- Brush off dry dirt with a soft brush.
- Clean the upper with lukewarm water and a little mild soap on a soft cloth or brush. Don't soak the shoes.
- Wipe off the soap with a clean, damp cloth.
- Stuff the shoes with paper and let them air-dry at room temperature.
Only use a washing machine or dryer if the care label says it's safe. Heat can weaken glue and change the shape of a shoe.
Smooth leather and faux leather
- Wipe off dust and dirt with a soft, slightly damp cloth.
- For marks, put a little mild soap on the cloth, then wipe with clean water and dry with a soft cloth.
- Genuine leather stays supple with a leather conditioner or cream every few months. Faux leather usually only needs a wipe with a damp cloth.
- Avoid harsh cleaners and solvents on both.
Suede, nubuck and suede-look finishes
- Keep them dry where possible, and brush them regularly with a suede brush.
- Remove small marks with a suede eraser.
- A water and stain repellent made for suede adds protection. Test it on a hidden spot first.
- If they get wet, blot them with a clean towel, let them dry naturally at room temperature and brush them once they're dry.
Sandals and slides
- Wipe the footbed with a damp cloth and a little mild soap, then with clean water.
- Let them dry in the shade, not in direct sun.
- Don't leave sandals in a hot car for long. High temperatures can affect glue and some materials.
Slippers
Follow the care label: some slippers can be washed by hand, others should only be spot-cleaned with a damp cloth. Let them dry completely before you wear them again, and brush plush or fleece linings gently to keep them soft.
Winter salt stains
Road salt leaves white marks on shoes and boots, and it's easiest to remove while it's fresh.
- Brush or wipe off snow and slush as soon as you get home.
- Mix equal parts lukewarm water and white vinegar. Dab the stains gently with a soft cloth dipped in the mix. On suede, test a hidden spot first.
- Wipe with a cloth dampened with clean water.
- Let the shoes dry at room temperature, away from radiators, heaters and fireplaces.
Keeping shoes fresh
Take out removable insoles now and then so the shoes and insoles can air out. You can also sprinkle a little baking soda inside dry shoes, leave it overnight and shake it out in the morning. Wearing socks with closed shoes helps too.
Something wrong with your shoes?
If a manufacturing defect shows up during normal use, contact us and we'll look into it. Getting ready for the cold? Read our guide to choosing winter boots.