How to Protect Light-Colored Leather Shoes

By: Chance Henson

Julien M. Hekimian/Getty Images Entertainment/Getty Images

A pair of high-quality shoes may cost a pretty penny, but they can last for years -- if properly maintained. Less expensive shoes can be easily replaced, so it's best to think of your leather shoes as an investment. Although damage such as scuffs, water stains and cracks can depreciate both the quality and value of the shoes, such problems can be avoided or fixed. You can keep your light-colored shoes supple, smooth and comfortable by using time honored and professionally proven maintenance methods.

Step 1

Remove the laces from the shoes and store them nearby. Lay the shoes on an old towel or on newspapers to keep the leather out of contact with loose dust and dirt.

Step 2

Brush the leather surfaces of the shoes with a soft-bristled brush to remove surface dirt. Insert one hand inside the shoe and drop a nickel-sized amount of saddle-soap or mild body soap directly onto the leather. Brush the soap into the leather, including creases, seams and scuffs, until the shoes are thoroughly clean. Wipe the shoes with a clean, damp cloth and let them dry for 20 minutes.

Step 3

Dip a clean cotton or linen cloth into a jar of leather conditioner and scoop out a half-dollar-sized amount. Apply the conditioner directly to the leather, working it in with gentle, circular motions until the whole upper of the shoe has been conditioned.

Step 4

Choose a paste or cream shoe polish that matches the light tone of the shoes -- choosing a darker color will permanently stain the leather. Apply the polish with the conditioning cloth, using circular motions over the leather surfaces until the entire shoe has been polished.

Step 5

Buff the shoes with a buffing cloth or polishing brush using short, rapid motions to give it shine.

Step 6

Wipe the shoes with a warm sponge to open the pores of the leather and help the shoes absorb the water repellent. Spray the leather surfaces of the shoes with a spray-on water repellent and gently wipe them with a clean cloth.