What steps should I take to care for my leather dress shoes?

Question

Usually, they don't last me a year and I think that may have to do with my carelessness. I want to stretch them out as long as I can and have them still look at the same time.

Answer 1

Invest in some shoe trees (you can find them at Target, Wal Mart or any store that sells shoes, really). I know they may sound like a superficial accessory to some, but my father used them on his good Florsheim shoes and the leather never cracked or wrinkled and the shoes usually lasted him an average of three years. I used to work at Kenneth Cole, where men's shoes were our biggest seller, and we always sold shoe trees as an add-on accessory. The customers really loved them and swore by them.
Petroleum jelly is a quick fix, but not good for long term because the oil in the jelly will build up and stain the shoes after awhile. A good leather care lotion will keep the leather hydrated and clean.

Answer 2

You could buy a spray specifically for leather goods. It's sold in all Leather stores and is pretty cheap, about $10

Answer 3

Use shoe trees. Keep your shoes clean and polished.Above all don't get them wet. You do these things and your shoes will last a long time, that is if they are quality shoes to begin with.

Answer 4

make sure the leather does not dry out or else it will crack. try rubbing some petroleum jelly on your shoes time and again. or, as an alternative, you can rub some candle wax to prevent chapping

Answer 5

Stay out of the water as much as possible when wearing them... stuffing them with crumbled newspaper when not wearing helps with the interior drying.....

Answer 6

Try some vaseline. The jar will be very handy for this and other items too. Pocketbooks, wallets. etc.