If you have a favorite pair of shoes then you will probably want to hold on to it for as long as possible. This means you have to ensure that you clean it with utmost care. Since shoes are constructed with different materials, you have to consider a cleaning method that is best suited for your type of shoe. However, this does not mean that you have to go for the most expensive shoe cleaning agent in the stores, you can easily make your own shoe cleaner. Listed below are ingredient and instructions on how to make shoe cleaner.
Items you will need to make the shoe cleaner. Most of the items you will need to make the shoe cleaner can easily be found in your house. You may require:
- Baking soda
- White vinegar
- Olive oil
- Lukewarm water
- A mixing bowl
- An old toothbrush
- A Sponge
- Old towel
- Soft bristled brush
- An eraser
- Nail file
As mentioned earlier, different shoes require different kinds of cleaning methods. For instance, canvas shoe, leather shoes and suede shoes all require a different kind of cleaning method. Another thing you should note is that you have to read the care instructions that came with the shoe first. If the instructions clearly state that the shoes should be cleaned by a professional, avoid the temptation to experiment with your own concoctions.
Cleaning different types of shoes:
Canvas shoes:
Items required:
- Lukewarm water
- Baking soda
- Vinegar
- Mixing bowl
- Dry sponge or towel
The cleaning process
To help you clean your canvas shoes you will need to mix 1 cup of lukewarm water with 1 tablespoon of baking soda and 2 tablespoons of white vinegar, in a mixing bowl. The ingredients should be mixed until you achieve a pasty consistency. Once this is done use the toothbrush to apply the paste onto the soles and canvas of your shoes. Use a circular motion to clean of any dirt or stains from the shoe. Once you are satisfied with the application, remove any residue and let your shoes dry.
The baking soda mixture will dry fast and start cracking off. At this point, you can clap your shoes together or use a damp sponge or towel to remove any traces of the residue.
Your shoes are now clean and you can leave them out to dry for 2 to 3 hours.
Leather shoes:
Items required
- Toothbrush or soft bristled brush
- Towel
- White vinegar
- Olive oil or Bees wax
The cleaning process:
First, you will want to remove any lose dirt or debris from the shoe surface. You can use an old toothbrush or the bristled brush to gently remove the dirt. Scrubbing too hard may scratch the surface of the shoe. You will then have to use a damp towel to wipe off any grease, oil or grime that may be on the surface of the shoe. Allow the shoes to dry then apply a small mixture of white vinegar and olive oil or beeswax on the shoes. Let the concoction sit on the shoes for a while before buffing it with a soft rag or towel. The concoction is meant to protect and preserve your shoe.
Suede shoes:
Items required
- Eraser
- White vinegar
- Toothbrush or soft bristled brush
- Nail File
What to avoid:
Extra care should be taken when cleaning suede since it is much softer and more vulnerable wear and tear than ordinary leather. Another thing to note is that you should avoid using water or the temptation to do spot cleaning. Doing this will cause water stains on your shoes making them appear, old scuffed and discolored.
The cleaning process:
When cleaning suede shoes use a toothbrush or a soft bristled brush to remove dirt, pollen, and other debris. For stains, you can use the white vinegar on the stained area. You have to be gentle while doing this so as not to fade the original color of the fabric. When done wipe with a towel and let the area dry. To effectively get rid of scratches and other stubborn stains on the shoe, you can use an ordinary eraser. All you need to do is gently rub the affected area and see whether the stain will disappear. For lumpy mud stains, you can use a nail file to gently file them off.
