Items made of snakeskin are often costly and require a cleaner and conditioner formulated for reptile skin. Use of smooth leather products may result in a buildup of residue that can cause the scales to fall off or crack. Whether the fashion accessory is a jacket, vest, purse, wallet, belt or shoes, proper cleaning results in the item lasting for many years. Snakes, lizards and crocodile skins require more frequent cleanings to keep healthy the membranes that hold together the scales.

Dust the leather every time you wear shoes or other fashion accessories made of snakeskin. Rub against the scales with a soft cloth to get rid of dirt, oils and debris before storing it.

Clean with a cleaner formulated for reptile or snakeskin. Read the instructions on the label and use only a minimal amount of the product. Wipe the cleaner on the snakeskin in the direction of the scales. Use a clean, soft cloth to remove any excess.

Condition by using an exotic leather conditioner formulated for snake or reptile skins. Always rub in the conditioner with a soft cloth, and wipe in the direction of the scales. It only takes a small amount of the product to do an effective job.

Polish by applying a snakeskin or exotic leather cream polish in the same shade as the snakeskin. Rub on the polish in the direction of the scales. The frequency depends on how often you wear the snakeskin accessory. Polishing twice a year is acceptable if you only wear the item occasionally.