Bonbon Shoes
Shoe care guide
Every pair of shoes has a story to tell. From everyday favourites to those special pairs you save for unforgettable moments, a little care helps keep them looking and feeling their best. Explore our essential care guide and discover how to protect, clean and preserve your shoes, whatever the material or season.
01
What are your shoes made of?
Different materials have different needs. Choose yours to see the right care routine — it’s the first step towards keeping your shoes beautiful for longer.
How to care for
Smooth Leather
- 1Remove dust and dirt with a soft, slightly damp cloth.
- 2Apply a leather cream or conditioner suitable for the finish.
- 3Gently polish with a soft cloth or brush.
- 4Use a compatible water-repellent treatment when appropriate.
- 5Allow wet leather to dry naturally, away from direct heat.
Care tip: Avoid excessive water, harsh detergents and machine washing. A little leather cream goes a long way.
02
Everyday care, made simple
A few thoughtful habits can make a lasting difference.
Protect before wearing
Use a suitable protective treatment before the first wear, following the product instructions.
Clean after wearing
Remove dirt and dust regularly, using the right cleaning method for each material.
Use a shoehorn
Protect the heel counter and maintain the original shape of your shoes.
Rotate your shoes
Give each pair time to air out and recover between wears, especially after exposure to moisture.
03
Through the seasons
Autumn & winter
Cold weather brings rain, snow, moisture and road salt. Protect suitable footwear with a water-repellent treatment and remove salt residue promptly using a material-safe cleaning method. Allow damp boots to dry completely at room temperature before wearing them again. Avoid placing them near radiators or fireplaces.
Spring & summer
Warm weather can bring perspiration, dust and prolonged sun exposure. Allow shoes to air out after wearing and gently clean footbeds and linings with suitable products. Avoid leaving footwear in direct sunlight or hot cars for extended periods, as excessive heat may affect adhesives, colours and materials.
04
How to dry your shoes properly
Gentle drying is always the best choice. If your shoes become wet, follow these simple steps:
- 1Remove excess surface moisture gently with a soft cloth.
- 2Insert plain absorbent paper to help maintain their shape.
- 3Leave shoes to dry naturally in a well-ventilated space at room temperature.
- 4Replace damp paper when necessary.
- 5Once completely dry, apply the appropriate care product if needed.
Never speed up drying with direct heat, a hairdryer or a radiator. High temperatures can damage leather, adhesives and other footwear components.
05
Thoughtful storage
When your favourite shoes are taking a well-deserved break, store them with the same care you give them when wearing them.
Clean before storing
Always remove dirt and allow shoes to dry completely.
Keep their shape
Use suitable shoe trees or soft, acid-free tissue paper.
Choose a dry, ventilated space
Avoid excessive humidity, direct sunlight and heat.
Protect delicate finishes
Keep patent leather, metallic finishes and contrasting materials separated.
Avoid sealed plastic bags
Breathable storage helps reduce trapped moisture.
Prepare for the next season
Before long-term storage, treat smooth leather with an appropriate care product and protect wool, felt and natural fur details from moths.
06
A little extra attention
Colour transfer
Some naturally dyed leather linings may transfer colour to socks or skin, particularly when exposed to moisture or perspiration. A suitable colour-fixing treatment may help reduce transfer, but results can vary.
The perfect fit matters
Shoes should fit comfortably from the beginning. Specialist leather-stretching products may help with minor tightness in suitable leather footwear, but they cannot correct an unsuitable size or shape.
Repair, don’t replace too soon
Small scratches, worn heel tips and minor sole damage can sometimes be repaired. Consult a qualified shoe repair specialist before minor wear becomes a bigger problem.
07
Your quick checklist
- Check the fit and material care instructions
- Protect new shoes with a suitable product
- Remove dirt after wearing
- Allow damp shoes to dry naturally
- Use material-specific cleaning products
- Rotate pairs between wears
- Inspect heels and soles regularly
- Clean and dry shoes before storing
The right products for every material
Brushes, protectors and cleaners, chosen by our boutique.
Shop shoe care