Ask Harry: How to Care for Leather Shoes

Q: I see a lot of instant polish products at the drugstore these days. Are they any good on shoes made from higher quality leather?— John, Calgary

A: Not if you want them done well. These kits will do in a pinch but won’t give you the lasting shine that real shoe polish and some elbow grease achieves. Here’s how to do it right.

1.Cleanse & Condition

Remove the shoelaces and brush off loose dirt with a soft brush. Dampen a cloth with water and a small amount of shoe cream, then gently clean the surface in a circular motion. Allow it to dry.

2.Polish & Buff

Choose a polish that matches the colour of your shoes. Using a soft cloth, apply a small amount of polish to the shoes and work it in with small circular motions. Let the polish dry, then use a clean brush to buff in a back-and-forth motion to bring out the shine. For additional shine, apply additional coats of polish.

3.Weatherproof & Store Properly

If desired, use a quality weatherproofing product. Then, replace the shoelaces and store your shoes in a cool, dry place. And please don’t forget the cedar shoe trees. They maintain the shape of your shoes and absorb moisture, ensuring they look their best for longer.