Leather is a material that is commonly used in furniture, accessories, briefcases and shoes and is made from the skin of cow, sheep, goats or pigs. It is a very absorbent material that can stain easily when exposed to rain, snow or other substances, such as salt left on streets and sidewalks during the winter. This can leave a white residue on leather shoes, which can be cleaned effectively with a few tools. Consider applying a layer of stain protectant to leather shoes once a year to help protect the shoes against exposure to stain-causing substances.

Use a soft brush or cloth to wipe away dirt, salt or other debris on the shoes. Gently buff the surface of the shoes with a soft brush to bring up as much of the stain as possible.

Mix together ½ cup water and ½ cup white vinegar and dip a clean, soft cloth into the mixture. Do not saturate the cloth. Use the cloth to gently rub away the white stains on the shoes.

Repeat until the stains are gone. Use a clean, soft cloth to gently buff the shoes dry in circular motions.