SHOE CARE TIPS
Leonard Da Vinci, artist and engineer said that “the human foot is a masterpiece of engineering and a work of art.”
Shoes are an extension of clothing. Whether practical or fashion footwear, your favourite pair of shoes will last longer and afford more comfort if they are properly cared for.
- Rotate your footwear – Shoes need a day off. If you want your shoes to last longer, rotate your shoes everyday.
- Protective soles - By fitting a protective sole such as a Multisole, Topy or Philips, life of your shoes is prolonged. Stylishly thin, this top sole protects the outer sole from wear and tear. Protective soles are also water resistant and slip proof.
- Repair - Replace worn down heels and soles before irreparable damage is done to the structure of the sole or heel block.
- Clean and polish - Do not let dirt build up. Clean your shoes regularly and keep the leather lustre. “Polish, polish, polish ….” All types of shoes can be cleaned, however, there are different products designed to be used on different materials. Some cleaners and polishes are too harsh on some materials while others are not strong enough. Choosing the right cleaner and polish or cream makes all the difference.
- Drying out shoes - Never force dry your shoes if they happen to get wet. Let the shoes air dry naturally. Exposing them to excessive heat will ruin the leather. Also use a protector regularly to protect against stains and moisture.
- Takkies - Takkie shampoo is better that throwing them into the laundry or washing machine, which causes deterioration of the components of the shoe. Never put your takkies into the dryer, rather allow them to dry naturally.
- Exotic shoes - Exotic skins such as snake and crocodile skin shoes need extra care. Use special cleaners and conditioners on these.
- In shape - Keep your shoes in shape by loosening the laces or buckles before removing them. Also use a shoe tree for those good expensive shoes.
- Protect - Rain, mud and grease stains quickly spoil the natural appearance of good leather shoes. A protector provides an invisible protective layer to keep shoes looking good.
- Shoe cream - Coloured shoe cream should be used for fine leather shoes. This rich wax emulsion will feed and nourish the leather and will help maintain the beauty of your shoes.
- Patent leather - Never use a solvent or detergent to clean patent leather. ‘All Leather’ aerosol is a blend of silicon and lanolin which gives a nourishing high gloss shine to all smooth patent or synthetic leather shoes
- Ouch!! - Don’t suffer with tight shoes – have your shoes stretched to avoid discomfort. Balled, slightly damp newspaper stuffed overnight into the shoe by the affected area will offer some relief.
- Suede and nubuck - Suede and nubuck cleaners are specifically formulated for these special materials. This along with a nylon or soft wire brush will bring new life to your shoes. Be gentle when brushing nubuck. It is more delicate than suede and easily damaged. Prevention is better than cure so use a protective spray against water and stains. Colour renew suede sprays are available to bring back the life and colour of old suede shoes.
Multiserv with the largest network of specialist shoe repair and shoe care outlets in South Africa are at your service to assist and advice you how to care for those special shoes and keep them “AS GOOD AS NEW”.
For more information please visit your nearest store or call the Support Centre on 011 315 4904.
