Do you know how much the most expensive shows in the world are worth? According to Footwear News, the most expensive shoes in the world are the Jada Dubai Passion Diamond Stilettos. Yep, the most expensive shoe in the world is a stiletto. A pair of gold-plated, diamond-encrusted stilettos worth a whopping $17 million.
It is very clear that people absolutely love their shoes. We regularly spend way more money than we can afford to buy shoes worth an exorbitant amount, even if not $17 million. But somehow, we don’t pay enough attention to maintaining them. Therefore, in this article, we will cover everything you need to know to keep your kicks clean. We’ll start with some tips, move on to some tools, and end with a bonus point.
Shoe Cleaning 101
Maintaining the appearance of your shoes is important for both aesthetic and practical reasons. A well-kept pair of shoes can help you make a good first impression and extend the life of your footwear. Whether you’re dealing with dirty sneakers, stained loafers, or scuffed dress shoes, there are several steps you can take to keep your shoes looking their best. Now, let’s start with the tips.
Brush or Wipe Off Dirt and Debris Regularly:
This is the first step in maintaining the appearance of your shoes. Use a soft-bristled brush or a damp cloth to remove loose dirt and debris on a regular basis to help prevent scratches and damage to the material.
Use a Gentle Soap or Shoe Cleaner:
When it comes time to wash your shoes, it’s important to choose a cleaning solution that’s gentle on the material. Avoid using harsh chemicals that can damage your shoes. Nike says one of the best ways to clean shoes is to mix laundry detergent or dish soap with plenty of warm water. It is inexpensive and easy to prepare.
Clean Shoes Promptly After They Get Wet:
Wet shoes can be a breeding ground for bacteria and fungus, so it’s important to clean them as soon as possible. Use a soft cloth or towel to remove any excess moisture, and allow your shoes to air dry completely before wearing them again.
Consider Using a Trainer Cleaner for Athletic Shoes:
Athletic shoes can get especially dirty, especially if you wear them for sports or other outdoor activities. Consider using a trainer cleaner specifically designed for sneakers and athletic shoes. These cleaners are formulated to remove dirt and grime, as well as protect against future stains.
By following these simple tips, you’ll be well on your way to keeping your shoes looking and feeling fresh and clean. With a little effort and the right tools, you can extend the life of your footwear and always look your best. Now, on to the right tools that we mentioned.
Cleaning Tools
Persistent Market Research says the shoe care industry generated a revenue of $5.4 billion in 2022. Therefore, you can guess how many different products there must be in the market. From brushes to sprays to specialized cleaners, there are a number of supplies that can help you keep your shoes looking their best. Here are a few essential items to keep on hand.
Soft-Bristled Brush:
A soft-bristled brush is a must-have tool for gentle cleaning. Use it to remove loose dirt and debris, as well as to scrub away stains and grime. A brush with synthetic bristles is best, as it won’t damage delicate materials like suede or nubuck.
Specialized Cleaners:
Depending on the material of your shoes, you may want to consider using a specialized cleaner. For example, if you have suede or nubuck shoes, look for a cleaner specifically designed for these materials. The same goes for leather shoes or canvas sneakers. By using a cleaner that’s formulated for your specific type of shoes, you’ll get the best results and protect your investment.
Towels and Cloths:
A clean, soft cloth or towel is essential for removing excess moisture and wiping down your shoes. Keep a few on hand so that you’re always prepared to clean your shoes quickly and easily.
By keeping these items on hand, you’ll be ready to tackle any shoe-cleaning challenge that comes your way. Whether you’re dealing with dirty sneakers, stained loafers, or scuffed dress shoes, you’ll be able to keep your shoes looking their best with ease.
Waterproofing
We touched on this before, but waterproofing is an important enough part of shoe care to deserve its own bonus point. The Strategist by New York magazine says that a good rule of thumb to follow is that if the shoe is made of a material You would dry clean, you should get it waterproofed. With that said, waterproofing is a good quality to look for in any shoe.
Choose Waterproof Shoes:
The best care is prevention. When shopping for shoes, look for those made with waterproof materials or treated with a waterproof coating. This will give you the best protection from the start.
Apply a Waterproof Spray:
If your shoes are not already waterproof, you can apply a waterproof spray to the exterior. Look for a spray that’s specifically designed for your type of shoes, and apply it according to the instructions.
Avoid Prolonged Exposure to Water:
No matter how waterproof your shoes are, it’s best to avoid prolonged exposure to water. If you know you’ll be walking in the rain, bring a spare pair of shoes or carry an umbrella.
If you are not used to obsessing over shoes, welcome to our world. It does take some work, but it is absolutely worth it. After all, why would you not spend a little bit of extra money and a few minutes of extra time to make sure your foot is as decorated as the rest of your body?