SHOE CARE GUIDE
If you own a pair (or several pairs) of leather shoes but aren't quite sure how to look after them properly, we've got you covered.
In the guide below, we'll walk you through everything from a quick weekly routine to keep your shoes fresh, to a deeper monthly care routine, as well as a full care routine for every quarter, plus dedicated steps for suede and shell cordovan.
Don't worry if your first attempt takes a little longer than expected, that's completely normal. With a bit of practice, you'll be shining your shoes like a pro in no time!
Weekly, Monthly & Deep Care Routine
Weekly Care
10 Minutes to Fresh Shoes
Step 1: Brushing
Brush the entire shoe with a horsehair brush to remove surface dust and dirt.
Step 2: Cream Polish
Apply a small amount of cream polish with a cloth or applicator brush, working it in gently with circular motions.
Step 3: Dwell Time
Let the cream absorb for 5 to 10 minutes.
Step 4: Buff
Brush firmly with a horsehair brush to remove excess cream and bring out a natural shine.
Monthly Care
Nourish & Protect
Step 1: Brushing
Thoroughly brush the shoe to remove surface dust and debris.
Step 2: Rénovateur
Apply Saphir Rénovateur with a soft cloth using gentle circular motions. Leave for 10 to 15 minutes, then wipe off and brush.
Step 3: Wipe & Brush
Remove any excess with a clean cloth, then brush well.
Step 4: Cream Polish
Apply cream polish in circular motions and let it absorb for 5 to 10 minutes.
Step 5: Buff
Brush firmly to bring out a clean, healthy shine.
Step 6: Wax Polish
Apply a thin layer of Saphir wax polish and buff with a brush or cloth for a deeper shine. Recommended once a month.
Deep Care
Quarterly routine
Step 1: Leather Cleaner
Apply Saphir Leather Cleaning Lotion with a cloth to remove dirt and old polish. Wipe off within 2 to 5 minutes.
Step 2: Rénovateur
Apply Saphir Rénovateur, leave for 10 to 15 minutes, then wipe and brush.
Step 3: Cream & Wax
Follow the Monthly Care routine.
Step 4: Finish
Relace the shoes and insert cedar shoe trees to maintain shape and prevent creasing.
Suede care
Step 1: Dust
Gently wipe the suede to remove loose dust and dirt.
Step 2: Suede Brush
Brush in one direction to lift the nap and restore its texture.
Step 3: Suede Renovator
Spray evenly from 20 to 25 cm away. Allow to dry naturally without heat.
Step 4: Final Brush
Once dry, lightly brush again to lift the nap and even the finish.
SHELL CORDOVAN CARE
Step 1: Brush
Gently brush the shoe to remove surface dust.
Step 2: Cordovan Cream
Apply a small amount of Saphir Cordovan Cream with a soft cloth. Work it in gently using circular motions.
Step 3: Buff
Buff firmly with a horsehair brush to bring out Cordovan’s natural shine. No wax is typically needed.
explore
shoe care accessories
Keep your shoes looking their best with the right care essentials.
Explore our Bridlen Shoe Care Kit and Saphir shoe care products for everything you need at home. If you prefer a professional finish, our Shoe Care Services offer a complete clean, condition, polish and shine to give your shoes a renewed lease of life.
