How To Clean Vintage Leather Shoes

Need to know how to clean vintage leather shoes? Take the worry out of cleaning your vintage shoes by following a few tips. With the right cleaning products and tools, you will be on your way to almost-new-looking shoes in no time. Always check for any available manufacturer's instructions for cleaning a particular shoe when possible.

To clean your vintage leather shoes, you will need:

• A soft cotton cloth
• Baking soda
• A commercial leather cleaner

1. Dust the shoes. With a clean, soft, cotton cloth, wipe away any loose dirt, dust and particles from the shoes. When cleaning vintage leather shoes, you want to keep any and all types of cleaning to a bare minimum. What may first appear to be a stain is often wiped away with a simple cloth. Do not apply pressure to your  vintage leather shoes when dusting. Rub lightly around the entire shoe, starting with the top and ending with the soles.
2. Deodorize the shoes. All shoes, new or vintage, collect smells from being worn or even being left in the closet too long. When cleaning your vintage leather shoes, sprinkle a bit of baking soda inside. Gently shake the product around inside the shoe until it coats the inside bottom. Allow to sit for a while before removing the excess baking soda from the shoe.
3. Remove the laces from the shoes and clean them separately. When you clean your vintage leather shoes, the laces need to be cleaned separately. If the shoes retain their original laces, you will want to evaluate their condition before cleaning them. If they are frayed or worn very thin, do not attempt to clean them. If they are still in fairly good condition, wash them with a delicate detergent in cold water and hang to dry. Never place them in a washing machine or dryer as they can be snagged and destroyed by the moving parts.
4. Use a leather cleaner to clean the shoe. With your vintage leather shoes, dusting may not remove all the dirt. Purchase a cleaner specially designed for use with vintage leather. Spot check the product on the lower heel of the shoe first to assure the product does not damage the item before cleaning the entirety.