The short version
Treat them like an object you want to keep. Brush after wear, condition the leather every few months, and store them on a shelf — not in their box, not on the floor.
Patent leather
Daily
Wipe with a soft cotton cloth. Do not use water on the patent unless there is dirt on it — for water, dab gently, do not rub.
Weekly
Use a dedicated patent-leather conditioner (Saphir Vernis Rife or similar). A drop on a clean cloth, work in small circles, wipe away the excess. Patent that's too dry will craze — that's the sign you've gone too long.
Never
- Standard leather wax or polish — it will dull the finish.
- Alcohol or acetone-based cleaners — they strip the patent layer.
- Direct sun for long periods — patent yellows.
Nappa & calf leather
Daily
A horsehair brush, gentle strokes. Removes dust before it lodges in the grain.
Monthly
Saphir Renovateur or a similar neutral cream. A pea-sized amount, work in with a cloth, let rest for ten minutes, buff with a soft brush.
Every 6 months
A more nourishing treatment — a small amount of Saphir Pommadier in the matching colour, followed by a light wax (Saphir Pâte de Luxe). The leather should feel supple, not greasy.
Suede
- Brushing — Crepe-rubber suede brush after each wear. Always in one direction along the nap.
- Protection — Suede protector spray (Saphir Super Invulner or similar) before first wear and once a season after.
- Stains — Let them dry completely, then brush. For stubborn marks, a clean rubber eraser will lift most.
- Water — If they get caught in rain, stuff with newspaper, dry away from heat (never on a radiator), then re-brush the nap once dry.
Vulcanised & leather soles
White rubber soles can be cleaned with a soft toothbrush, a drop of mild dish soap, and warm water. Air dry. Leather soles benefit from a thin coat of beeswax conditioner every few months to keep them from drying and cracking.
Storage
- Shoe trees — Cedar shoe trees, inserted while shoes are warm from wear. They absorb moisture and hold the silhouette.
- Rotation — Never wear the same pair two days in a row. Leather needs 24 hours to release the moisture you put in it.
- Where — On a shelf, away from direct sun. Cotton dust bags are ideal.
What we'll repair
We offer resoling and minor repairs through our atelier in Europe at cost. Email hello@maellabb.com with photos of the damage — we'll quote shipping and turnaround.
Note: The full shoe-care PDF Manuel mentioned (with brand-specific products) will live here once he sends it.