Cleaning is the first and most important step in any shoe care routine — before you apply shoe polish, shoe wax, or waterproofing. Dirt, dust, salt, and old layers of polish and cream can prevent new care products from properly penetrating the leather. By regularly cleaning your shoes first, you ensure that the leather can breathe, regain its natural softness, and better absorb nourishing oils and fats.
In many cases, cleaning is also necessary to avoid dirt from permanently adhering, which could otherwise lead to stains, discoloration or damaged leather.
How to integrate cleaning into your shoe care routine
- Brush or dust offshoes as needed after each use — remove dust, grit and dry dirt.
- In case of dirt, salt or after rain/weather — use amild leather cleaneror a cleansing shampoo to dissolve dirt and salt residue.
- For sneakers, suede or textile – choosecustomized cleaning(suede brush / cleaning foam) to remove deep-seated dirt.
- Let the shoes dry naturally — avoid direct heat or elements that can dry out and damage the leather.
- Once the shoes are clean and dry — follow up withcaring cream, leather grease or shoe waxdepending on material and needs, to restore moisture, softness and protection.
Our recommendations for sustainable shoe care
- Usedleather cleaningat least once every 2–6 months depending on how often the shoes are used.
- Always combine cleaning withcare & protection— clean first, care later.
- For best results: clean, dry, care with cream/grease, and if the leather is wet often: finish withwax or impregnation.
- Suede and nubuck in particular require special cleaning and care — use the right product for the material.
With the right cleaning products and regular shoe care, you can extend the life of your shoes, preserve the quality of the leather, and ensure they always look fresh. In the categoryShoe cleaningyou'll find the best products to keep your shoes clean, fresh and ready for further care — whether they're elegant leather shoes, sneakers or sturdy hiking boots.
