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Taking proper care of leather is an important step in maintaining its appearance and
longevity. Preserving and caring for leather is an easy process, and the results are
always worthwhile. In order to lengthen the life of your favorite leather shoes and
accessories, we recommend you follow these simple steps:
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Wipe Off Dust
The most important thing you can do in caring for any piece of leather is to keep it
free of dust. Dust will settle in the creases of shoes and accessories. It acts like
sandpaper—cutting at the finish with every step you take. You don't need a special
cloth or brush to wipe away the dust.
Tips: |
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Many spots and marks on leather can be cleaned off with a pencil eraser,
especially on white leather. |
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Hairspray helps remove ink and pen marks—just blot
with a paper towel. |
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Spots can be removed with a solution of 1/2 white vinegar
and 1/2 water, which is particularly effective on sugar or alcohol spots. |
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Oil and grease can be cleaned off leather with a spray-on spot remover. Rubber
cement is another good oil spot remover. Apply over the spot, let dry and then
rub off (do not use this treatment on suede). |
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2. |
Condition
Leather conditioning involves adding oils and conditioners to replace those that
have dried up since the leather was originally tanned. Some leathers will need more
conditioning than others and most leathers will need it more often in dry climates.
If you shine regularly, you only have to use conditioner every other time you shine.
Keep in mind that leather can only absorb so much, so don't overdo it. |
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3. |
Apply Shoe Polish
Before wearing your new leather shoes and accessories, treat them to a polish
rubdown to ward of soil penetration. Polish protects leather from drying out or being
ruined by a sudden rain. Avoid quick-drying liquid polishes that contain alcohol,
which can dry out leather. We recommend cream polishes, which clean and shine all
in one step. The polish should match the color of the leather. Be sure to test a small
area before applying colored polish. Rub in the polish, give it a few moments to dry
and brush or buff to a shine.
Tips: |
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If you get caught in the rain, let your shoes dry naturally, away from any direct
heat source. Stuff the toe area with paper towels to absorb moisture and help
retain the shape of the shoe. |
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Check shoe heels and soles periodically. If the heels are worn, send them to a
repair shop immediately. |
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