Shoes and sneakers
How to polish leather shoes in 10 minutes
By sneakersInn team · Updated
To polish leather shoes, remove the laces, brush off dust, wipe the leather clean, rub in a thin layer of cream polish to feed and colour it, add a thin layer of wax polish for shine and protection, buff with a horsehair brush, and finish with a soft cloth. It takes about 10 minutes and, done every few weeks, keeps shoes looking new for years.
| You need | Why |
|---|---|
| Horsehair brush | Removes dust and buffs to a shine |
| Soft cotton cloths | Apply polish and finish |
| Cream polish in your shoe colour | Feeds the leather and restores colour |
| Wax polish in your shoe colour | Shine and water protection |
| Shoe trees | Hold the shape while you work |
Step by step
- Prepare. Remove the laces and put in shoe trees.
- Brush. Brush off dust and dirt, especially around the welt where the upper meets the sole.
- Wipe. Clean the leather with a slightly damp cloth and let it dry.
- Cream. Rub a pea-sized amount of cream polish in small circles all over. Let it absorb for 5 minutes.
- Brush. Buff with the horsehair brush in quick strokes.
- Wax. Apply a thin layer of wax polish, focusing on the toe and heel, which hold shine best.
- Buff. Brush again, then finish with a clean cloth.
- Re-lace and you're done.
What is the difference between cream and wax polish?
Cream polish soaks in, feeding the leather and covering scuffs with colour. Wax polish sits on top, adding shine and a little water resistance. Use both: cream for health, wax for finish.
How do I get a mirror shine on the toe?
After step 7, add very thin layers of wax to the toe cap with a cloth and a drop of water, rubbing in tiny circles. Build up several layers. It takes practice; keep it to the toe and heel, because the flexing parts of the shoe crack the shine.
How often should I polish?
A quick brush after every wear, cream and wax every three to four weeks for shoes you wear often, more often in harmattan when dust dries leather.
What about brown shoes?
Use a polish slightly lighter than the shoe if you're unsure; a darker polish darkens the leather permanently. Neutral polish works on any colour.
What about suede?
Never use polish on suede. Brush it and use a suede eraser and protector instead. See suede vs leather sneakers.
Questions
Can I polish leather sneakers?
Smooth leather sneakers benefit from a leather cream or conditioner, but shine polish isn't needed. See how to make your sneakers last longer.
Which shoes should I own?
See derbies, oxfords and loafers explained.