Ask Harry: How to Care for Leather Shoes

Q: I see a lot of instant polish products at the drugstore these days. Are they any good on shoes made from higher quality leather?— John, Calgary

A: Not if you want them done well. These kits will do in a pinch but won’t give you the lasting shine that real shoe polish and some elbow grease achieves. Here’s how to do it right.

Remove the shoelaces and brush off loose dirt with a soft brush. Dampen a cloth with water and a small amount of shoe cream, then gently clean the surface in a circular motion. Allow it to dry.

Choose a polish that matches the colour of your shoes. Using a soft cloth, apply a small amount of polish to the shoes and work it in with small circular motions. Let the polish dry, then use a clean brush to buff in a back-and-forth motion to bring out the shine. For additional shine, apply additional coats of polish.

If desired, use a quality weatherproofing product. Then, replace the shoelaces and store your shoes in a cool, dry place. And please don’t forget the cedar shoe trees. They maintain the shape of your shoes and absorb moisture, ensuring they look their best for longer.