Clean leather shoes to suit the leather: brush smooth leather and wet-clean if needed, brush napped leather dry. At Langer & Messmer you will find cleaners, saddle soap and cloths to lift dirt gently, without harming the leather.
How to clean leather shoes
Cleaning is the first step of any shoe care: only once dust and dirt are gone can cream and waterproofing work. How you clean depends on the leather.
Cleaning smooth leather
First brush smooth leather dry. If dirt is stubborn, clean with a slightly damp cloth or a leather cleaner. Lift winter salt and snow rings with saddle soap or a snow-stain remover, then let the leather dry before you care for it.
Cleaning napped leather
Napped leather such as suede and nubuck is cleaned dry: brush with the right brush and work stains out with a cleaning gum. Water and cream are off-limits here, they clog the nap. The full method is in our guide how to clean suede shoes.
After cleaning
Once the shoe is clean and dry, care and protect follow. The right shoe brushes handle cleaning and application; for the routine as a whole, see shoe care.
Frequently asked questions
How do you clean leather shoes properly?
First brush them dry. For stubborn dirt, clean smooth leather with a leather cleaner and a damp cloth; napped leather stays dry and is only brushed. Then let the leather dry before you care for it.
Can you clean leather shoes with household remedies?
We advise against household remedies such as washing-up liquid, vinegar or baking soda: they can leave rings or dry the leather out. A proper leather cleaner or saddle soap cleans thoroughly and is kind to the leather.
What helps against salt and snow rings?
Dampen the shoe evenly and clean it with saddle soap or a snow-stain remover so no rings are left behind. Then let it dry and care for it again.
How often should you clean shoes?
Brush briefly after any heavier wear, deep-clean only as needed. Regular brushing stops dirt settling in and keeps the leather even.