Questions for the shoeshine-boy
General shoe care

 

How often do shoes have to be waterproofed?

New shoes should be given a basic waterproofing even before they are worn for the first time. The active ingredients in the waterproofing agent make shoes last longer and protect all other materials against moisture and dirt. The more regularly you repeat the process, the better the protection. The best way is to spray a thin layer of Coxy Super Protector, Salamander Universal SMS or Woly Protector 3x3 on the shoes three times in a row, allowing them to dry in between. Spray the creases especially thoroughly; this is where you need particularly good protection.

Should I polish my shoes first and waterproof them later, or vice-versa?

It is advisable to waterproof your shoes first, since then the active ingredient can soak into the leather particularly well. Only after waterproofing should you polish them with shoe cream. In the event of heavy rainfall, it is enough merely to waterproof your shoes.

How do I get wet shoes dry again?

You should stuff newspaper into wet shoes and leave it overnight to soak up the moisture. Dry your shoes at room temperature only - never near a source of heat or in the sun, since then the leather will shrink and become cracked and hard. There is no point in treating them with care products until they are completely dry.


 

Why should you only wear your shoes every other day?

Leather shoes absorb and store moisture. After being worn, they need to rest for a day to release the moisture they have already absorbed. Otherwise, white perspiration stains can form, and damp shoes are also an ideal breeding ground for the fungi and other organisms which cause athlete's foot.

Why do I need shoe trees?

Shoe trees make shoes last longer by smoothing out the creases caused by walking and maintaining the shape of the shoes. Wooden shoe trees are preferable, since wood also absorbs moisture.

How should I store my shoes when I am not wearing them?

If you are not planning on wearing a pair of shoes for a while (for example, winter shoes in the summertime), it is advisable to clean them thoroughly and put shoe trees in them, and then keep them in a dry place. They should be kept in a box or a shoe bag made of material which can breathe (cloth bag) to protect them from dust. Do not use airtight plastic bags, since the shoes could become moldy or mildewed!


previous topicto the question outlineAny questions?

Smooth leather | Rough leather | Patent leather | Textiles | Special kinds of soiling
 
Questions concerning care products | Athletic shoes and sportswear | General shoe care