Snowy weather brings its own challenges for keeping shoes clean and well-maintained. Between salt stains, moisture, and mud, your footwear can quickly lose its pristine look. Proper care is essential to protect your shoes from damage and ensure they stay stylish and functional throughout the winter season. Here’s how to clean and maintain your shoes when the snow starts falling.
Snow and road salt can cause lasting damage to shoes if not addressed promptly. After coming inside, wipe away snow and salt with a damp cloth. For leather shoes, avoid soaking the material—gently dab the surface instead. Salt stains can leave unsightly white marks, so clean them as soon as possible to prevent permanent discoloration.
Snowy conditions often lead to muddy sidewalks, which can leave your shoes dirty. Use a soft-bristle brush, such as Turms’ handmade brushes, to gently remove dirt without scratching the surface. For suede shoes, use a dedicated suede brush to restore the nap while cleaning away debris.
For deeper cleaning, apply a leather cleaner to remove stubborn stains. Work the cleaner into the surface using a soft cloth, then wipe away any excess. Be gentle to avoid overworking the leather. This step helps preserve the texture and color of your shoes during harsh winter conditions.
Winter weather can dry out leather, making it prone to cracks. Use a leather conditioner to restore moisture and keep the material supple. After conditioning, apply a water and stain repellent spray to create a protective barrier against snow, slush, and salt. Turms’ eco-friendly sprays a are perfect for shielding your shoes while maintaining their natural beauty.
Never use direct heat, such as radiators or hairdryers, to dry wet shoes. Instead, allow them to air dry at room temperature. For leather shoes, insert wooden shoe trees, like Turms’ crafted shoe trees, to maintain shape and absorb moisture from the interior.
Suede shoes require extra care in snowy weather. Use a rubber brush to remove stains and revive the nap. Avoid water-based cleaners, which can cause further damage. Instead, opt for a specialized suede cleaner to treat marks and restore the material’s original texture.
Once your leather shoes are dry, reapply a high-quality polish to restore their shine. Use a soft cloth and horsehair brush to buff the polish for a glossy finish. This step ensures your shoes stay polished and ready for any occasion, even in snowy conditions.
Snowy weather doesn’t have to mean damaged or dirty shoes. With the right care and tools, you can keep your footwear looking pristine all season long. Turms offers a range of premium products, from brushes to conditioners and protective sprays, to make winter shoe care easy and effective. Embrace the snow with confidence, knowing your shoes will stay as polished as your style.
