Personal Grooming – Keeping Shoes Clean

Keeping Shoes Clean

Over the last month we have had lots of rain in the UK and from seeing on the news the United States have also suffered with horrendous storms.  It means that we often need to change our shoes for walking outside particularly when walking through muddy areas.

Clean Shoes

During wet weather or during snowy winter weather it is important to take extra care that our shoes are kept in good condition.

Reminders:

1. Good repair – ensure you shoes are in good repair, this includes wellies. Worn rubber soles can cause you to slip in wet or icy weather.
2. Polishing shoes not only keeps them clean but provides a protective layer that repels water and dirt, keeping your leather shoes impeccably clean and presentable.
3. Suede shoes – waterproof when new to prevent suede and nubuck from becoming damaged. Use a soft bristled brush or a suede bar to lightly lift away dirt. However, avoid wearing them in very wet weather.
4. Casual, Sport or Walking shoes – these days often they are suitable to be cleaned in the washing machine. Check label when you purchase them.
5. Shoe trees – to keep shoes in shape use shoe trees and when damp use newspaper.
6. Spare kit – keep a shoe cleaning kit in the office to ensure your shoes are kept in supreme condition.
7. Salt Stains – during the snow you may find your shoes have salt stains. Use equal parts white vinegar and water and dampening a small cloth.  Then use the cloth  to scrub the stained area.

Smelly or Stinky shoes

To avoid bad odour put baking soda into your shoes every night when you take them off. In the morning, take the shoes outside and clap the soles together to get rid of excess powder. Alternatively, use odour-controlling insoles or put your shoes in a sealable plastic bag and put them in the freezer overnight. The cold should kill any fungus or bacteria causing the odour. Always avoid wearing the same shoes two days in a row.

Looking after shoes enables them to last longer and shoes clean and in good condition form part of your personal grooming routine. People notice your shoes!

Picture Credits: http://www.clarks.co.uk/

Tags: Etiquette Friday, manners, Personal Grooming, personal image, wardrobe, Wardrobe Personality