Great leather shoes are an investment. Here's how to protect yours so they age beautifully — not badly.
Why Leather Care Matters
Real leather is a living material. With proper care, it develops a beautiful patina over time — getting better with age, not worse. Neglect it, and it dries out, cracks, and loses its shape. The good news? Leather care is simple once you know the basics.
The Essential Leather Care Routine
1. Clean Regularly (Weekly)
After each wear, give your shoes a quick wipe with a soft, dry cloth to remove dust and surface dirt. For a deeper clean:
- Use a damp cloth with a tiny drop of mild soap
- Wipe gently — don't soak the leather
- Let them air dry naturally (never use a hair dryer or direct heat)
2. Condition Every 2-4 Weeks
Leather needs moisture, just like skin. A good leather conditioner prevents drying and cracking:
- Apply a small amount of conditioner with a soft cloth
- Rub in circular motions, covering the entire surface
- Let it absorb for 15-20 minutes
- Buff with a clean cloth for a natural shine
3. Protect from Water
Water is leather's biggest enemy. Before the first wear:
- Apply a leather protector/waterproofing spray
- Reapply every few months or before rainy season
- If they do get wet — stuff with newspaper and let them dry slowly at room temperature
4. Store Properly
- Use shoe trees (cedar is best) — they absorb moisture and maintain shape
- Store in dust bags — not plastic, which traps moisture
- Give them a day off — rotate between pairs so leather can breathe between wears
- Keep away from direct sunlight — prolonged UV exposure fades and dries leather
Common Leather Problems (And Quick Fixes)
Scuff Marks
Rub gently with a damp cloth, then apply conditioner. For stubborn scuffs, a tiny bit of petroleum jelly works wonders — buff it off after a few minutes.
Water Stains
Dampen the entire shoe evenly with a cloth (counterintuitive, but it works), then let it dry naturally with shoe trees inside. The even moisture eliminates the watermark.
Creasing
Some creasing is natural and adds character. To minimize it: use shoe trees after every wear, and don't wear the same pair two days in a row.
Dry/Cracked Leather
This means the leather is dehydrated. Apply a generous amount of conditioner, let it sit overnight, and buff in the morning. For severe cases, repeat for several days.
What NOT to Do
- ❌ Never machine wash leather shoes
- ❌ Never dry them with heat (radiators, hair dryers, direct sunlight)
- ❌ Never use harsh chemicals or household cleaners
- ❌ Never store them wet or damp
The Sustainable Choice
Taking care of your leather shoes isn't just about looking good — it's about sustainability. A well-maintained pair of leather shoes can last 10+ years, reducing waste and your need to buy replacements. At Mary Lo, we craft every pair with 100% leather specifically because we believe in making pieces that last.
Your shoes are worth the care. And so is the planet. 🌿
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