Footwear care

The right care starts with knowing what your shoes are made from. Always follow the instructions supplied with the pair; this guide provides general tips rather than instructions for every style.

Check before you clean

Read the product page and any care label or leaflet. A shoe may combine several materials, and a cleaner suited to one part can mark another. Check the instructions on the care product as well as those for the shoe.

Remove loose dirt gently with a suitable soft brush or dry cloth. Test any cleaner or protector on a small, less visible area and allow it to dry before treating a larger surface.

Smooth leather

Wipe away surface dust with a soft cloth. For more thorough cleaning, choose a product intended for the particular leather and follow its directions. Finishes vary, so do not assume every leather shoe can use the same cleaner, conditioner, or polish.

Use only a small amount of product at a time and keep it away from materials or trims it is not designed to treat.

Suede and nubuck

Let damp marks dry naturally before using a brush intended for suede or nubuck. Brush gently and avoid saturating the surface. Check whether the manufacturer recommends a specific cleaner or protector for the finish.

Persistent marks may need specialist care. Vigorous scrubbing can change the surface texture.

Textile and synthetic materials

Follow the stated cleaning method for the exact material. When permitted by the manufacturer, spot cleaning with a suitable cloth or cleaner may be appropriate. Avoid soaking the whole shoe unless the care instructions specifically allow it.

Do not assume that textile, knitted, or synthetic shoes are machine washable. Construction, adhesive, trims, and insoles can require different treatment.

Dry gently

If shoes become damp, remove excess surface moisture with a clean cloth and let them air dry away from direct heat. Avoid radiators, hair dryers, and tumble dryers unless the manufacturer explicitly allows them.

Open adjustable fastenings to help air circulate. Remove an insole only if it is designed to be removable.

Store with a little space

Put footwear away clean and dry, in a ventilated place away from prolonged direct sunlight. Avoid stacking heavy items on top or squeezing shoes into a shape that bends the upper.

Before the next wear, check fastenings, soles, and any visible damage. If a repair is needed, ask a qualified shoe-repair professional about the construction of the pair.

• Read the five-minute care routine
• Ask about a product