subject: Keeping Your Shoes In Tip Top Condition by:Charlotte Bleasdale [print this page] So you've found those elusive shoes that make you go weak at the knees every time you take a peek, but if you want that warm fuzzy feeling to last then you'd best make sure you take good care of those perfect shoes other wise they won't stay looking so fabulous. If they're leather they can start to crack and if they're suede they'll stain easily, so here is some useful advice on protecting and looking after your shoes.
Leather shoes need particular attention, as it's a skin it needs to be hydrated and nourished just like our own skin otherwise it will quickly show signs of wear. Use a soft rag to clean the leather and apply a special leather cleaner and condition and leave to dry. Don't use a polish too soon, it's best to wait until you've worn them a few times and then use a wax-based product for the best results. Remember to go for one that's colourless or the same colour.
As suede is more fragile than leather it's important to take more care of it. Don't use wash polish; buy a cleaner designed especially to be used on suede shoes and always use a very soft, slightly damp cloth to clean them with. Synthetic materials are also more fragile than real leather so use a damp cloth or a gentle brush with polish. As patent shoes easily mark you should use a sponge and soap water to instantly remove stains, while you'll also find cleaning products specifically for patent shoes.
With any type of footwear it's also important to waterproof them if they haven't been already; this will not only keep them watertight but will also prevent them from staining easily too. You'll find lots of different waterproofing sprays available on the market that make is so easy to waterproof your shoes and boots, while a stain resistant spray will provide extra protection.
Here are some more quick top tips for sprucing up your shoes including some quirky ones toosometimes the old housewife tales are the best ones!
A rub of sandpaper will make soles less slippy while talcum powder will help a sticky sole
Leave orange peel in smelly shoes overnight and they'll smell fresh the next morning
The inside of an orange rind will also shine up black leather and for brown leather use a banana skin
A good steam over a hot kettle will work wonders for suede shoes
If your boot zips are getting stuck simply run a lead pencil down and they'll run smoother
Stretch tight shoes by stuffing with potato peelings and leave for 48 hours
If your laces are fraying hold them over a match or lighter to fuse the fibres back together
Don't attempt to dry a wet bag with a hairdryer or place it near a radiator; stuff it with tissue paper and leave in a warm, aerated cupboard
Storing your shoes is also vital to protecting them. Most people simply throw their shoes and boots into cupboards without thinking about the damage that can be caused. The best way to store your shoes is to buy shoe storage boxes or bags that have been specially designed for different styles of shoes and boots including flats, high heels, ankle boots and knee boots. Clear shoe storage boxes are especially useful because you can see which pair is in which box and some women even love to showcase their shoes for all to see in these clear boxes!
About the author
This useful article was written and distributed by Viva La Diva - a woman's right to shoes - a leading online retailer of designer shoes, boots, bags and fashion accessories from big name brands and exclusive designers. http://www.vivaladiva.com/shop/
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