How to clean patent leather shoes

Knowing how to clean patent leather shoes without damaging them ensures their longevity, allowing them to retain their dazzling appearance for a long time. Whether your loafers, ballet pumps, stilettos or other types of shoes are made from patent leather, knowing how to clean them is essential and easily managed; all you have to do is follow a few simple steps.

Alongside knowing how to clean your shoes when they need a quick spruce, it’s also worth knowing how to clean patent leather shoes with scuff marks, as well as other tough stains. At Gabor, we understand that our customers take pride in their shoes and want to keep them looking fresh, neat, and stylish.

So, if your shoes need a quick once-over or a thorough, deeper clean, read on: here’s our expert guide on how to clean patent leather shoes.

Table of contents

• What are patent leather shoes?
• How to clean patent leather shoes
• How to clean patent leather shoes with scuff marks
• How to remove tough stains from patent leather shoes

What are patent leather shoes?

Patent leather is a type of leather treated with a synthetic resin to give it a high gloss. This resin is typically made from a combination of polyurethane and acrylic, providing the leather with a mirror-like shine while making it more durable, harder to damage, and easier to clean.

Throughout history, patent leather has been popular at many different times, emerging as a symbol of sophistication during the Victorian era. It was also a popular choice for women’s shoes during the 1920s, and was used for knee-high boots and miniskirts during the 1950s and 60s.

With a recent resurgence in popularity, patent leather shoes are once again a familiar sight, their unmistakable shimmer complementing outfits of all types.

How to clean patent leather shoes

Step one: removing the dirt from your shoes

First and foremost, remove the laces from your shoes and, if you have them, insert shoe trees. You can then remove any dirt or dust using a soft-bristled brush or cloth. Using a soft material ensures you don’t scratch your shoes while easily removing any dirt picked up from regular wear. If necessary, you can remove any remaining, slightly tougher debris using a damp cloth.

Step two: cleaning your patent leather shoes

Once all the dust and dirt have been removed, mix a mild detergent, such as dishwashing detergent, with water. Put a microfiber cloth in the water, wring it out, and then rub your shoes all over in small, circular motions to clean them. Ensure that you do not saturate the leather, as excess water can damage the shoes.

Step three: drying and polishing your shoes

After cleaning your shoes, dry them with a soft, dry cloth to remove any excess moisture. You can then use a separate cloth and a small amount of shoe polish to shine them, applying the polish to the leather using the same small, circular movements you used to clean them.

How to clean patent leather shoes with scuff marks

If your shoes have scuff marks, there are two ways you can take to address them. It is essential to note that you should always attempt to remove scuff marks before cleaning them, as doing so afterwards can often necessitate re-cleaning.

There are two methods for removing scuff marks using household items: applying alcohol to the damaged area or using a pencil eraser.

Removing scuff marks using alcohol

If you happen to have rubbing alcohol at home, apply a small amount to a cotton swap and rub it gently on the scuff. Once applied, simply dry the area with a soft, absorbent cloth.

Removing scuff marks using a pencil eraser

This method is best for smaller scuff marks. Simply apply the eraser to the scuff with moderate pressure. Once the scuff is removed, wipe away any residue debris left by the eraser using a cloth.

How to remove tough stains from patent leather shoes

Your shoes may have developed tougher stains, such as those from oil-based or ink products.

Ink stains can be removed using a cotton swab doused with a small amount of rubbing alcohol. Oil-based stains can be removed by applying cornstarch and leaving it to sit on the stain for at least fifteen minutes. After this short period, simply wipe the cornstarch away using a soft brush.

A mixture of one part vinegar and two parts water can also be used to remove tough stains from your patent leather shoes—a good solution if you don’t have any rubbing alcohol to hand. And again, be sure not to over-saturate the leather with this solution to prevent damage to the shoe.

Browse our stunning range of patent leather shoes at Gabor!

In need of a fresh pair of shoes? Our selection of women’s patent leather shoes is crafted of various colours and designs, ensuring you can easily find the perfect pair to suit your taste. Whether they're part of your everyday style or needed for a special event, the options are endless with Gabor.

Choose your favourite patent leather shoes from Gabor today and qualify for Free UK Deliveries On Orders Over £40!

Related posts

• How to Clean Nubuck Shoes: the Ultimate Guide
• Party shoes you need this season
• Christmas gift guide: footwear we recommend gifting this year