What Your Shoes Say About You: Care Tips for Lasting Impressions

First Impressions Start with Your Shoes

One of the first things people notice about you when you meet them for the first time is your shoes. Are they clean or dirty? Are the heels scraped and marred, or are there dirty toe marks on your open-toe shoes?

To make a lasting first impression, ensure your shoes are properly cleaned and maintained.

Removing Toe Marks from Open-Toe Shoes

Use a good microfiber cloth that you reserve specifically for this purpose. Wet one half of the cloth with warm water and wring it out thoroughly. Gently rub up and down over the toe marks, then side to side, until the toe area looks clean. If the lining has a suede-like finish, use a suede brush or nail brush to restore the nap. Dry the shoes completely, but avoid placing them in direct sunlight. Cleaning toe marks regularly, before they become severe, will make the process much quicker.

Cleaning Fabric Boots and Shoes

Fabric shoes can be cleaned with a Soot and Dirt Remover Sponge. Rub the sponge over the fabric like you would with an eraser. It’s best to do this outdoors, as the sponge will shed particles during use. For more stubborn marks, use a microfiber cloth in the same way you would clean open-toe shoes.

Maintaining Suede Leather Boots and Shoes

Frequently use a suede brush to keep them looking fresh. Brush against the grain first to remove dirt, then reset the nap by brushing in the correct direction. For tough marks, gently rub the area with a cloth wrung out in undiluted white vinegar. Always test the solution in an inconspicuous spot first to avoid discoloration. Do not over-wet the suede, and allow it to dry thoroughly before wearing.

Caring for Leather Shoes

Regular cleaning with Dove Moisturizing Bar Soap will keep leather shoes clean and conditioned. For scuffs, use the appropriate color polish occasionally. For quick touch-ups on black or brown shoes, an appropriate-colored permanent marker can work wonders.

Maintaining Unusual-Colored Shoes

For leather shoes that don’t suit traditional polish, try Leather CPR. It cleans and conditions leather of all colors and is available at retailers like Bed Bath & Beyond. Alternatively, clean the shoes with a damp cloth and Dove Bar Soap. Don’t rinse—simply buff them to a shine.

For a quick refresh, use the Kiwi Express Shine neutral sponge. Just glide it over the leather for instant brightness and shine. Be sure to clean off excess dirt before applying.

Eliminating Shoe Odor

For stinky shoes, use Odorzout™, a natural odor eliminator. Sprinkle it inside your shoes after wearing them and leave it until the next use. Shake out the powder outside or into a sink or toilet. As a preventative measure, keep the inside of your shoes dry. Allow them to air out after heavy sweating or exposure to water.

Final Thoughts

Make your first impression count. You wouldn’t expect to see a Lamborghini with cheap hubcap rims, so don’t let your shoes detract from your overall appearance.

For further questions about shoe maintenance, footwear recommendations, or general foot care, please contact us at Foot & Ankle Specialists. We’re here to keep your feet—and your shoes—in top shape! Contact us now!