HOW SHOULD I CLEAN MY LEATHER SHOES?
09/23/2025

Just like the saying your Dad probably pounded into you a Million times:
“Take care of it and it’ll take care of you!”
Car. Relationship. Teeth. …and it’s the SAME with Leather Shoes.
ANSWER: USE GOOD LEATHER CONDITIONER!
Brush off the dirt from shoes/boots. You will want conditioners that remove dirt and stains without drying or damaging the leather. Here are some of the best-regarded leather shoe conditioners across different categories:
General Leather Shoe Conditioner (Safe for Most Smooth Leathers):
- Cadillac Leather Lotion – cleans, polishes, protects, conditions for all colors of leather, vinyl, reptile, and other exotic skins
- Fiebing’s Saddle Soap – clean and renew handbags, holsters, belts, saddles, sports gear, shoes, luggage, and leather furniture
For Protecting from Barn Yard Acid and Waterproofing Boots/Shoes:
- Nor-V-Gen Shoe Oil – is a leather conditioner especially prepared to preserve the life of all leather goods, such as: Boots and shoes, harnesses, saddles, chaps, straps, baseball mitts, grips, bags, etc. (Light colored leather may darken with application of oil.)
- Red Wing Boot Oil– lubricates and preserves quality while repelling water, this tried-and-true formula restores dried-out leather to its natural softness and flexibility. (May darken light colored leather)
For Water and Stain Repellent:
- Cadillac All Weather Shield – All season protection for leather, suede and nubuck. Helps prevent stains, water, and salt damage. Use year round to protect all materials except patents or vinyls. Ideal for shoes, boots, sneakers, coats, hats, gloves, backpacks, and other outdoor gear. Lets leather breathe.
- Atsko Heavy Duty Silicone Water-Guard – Suitable for outerwear, footwear, tents, sleeping bags, and suede. May make the product darker with use but only have to apply once.
**Always test on a small hidden area first, since different finishes (patent, nubuck, suede, oiled leather, etc.) may react differently.
