Back to school is just around the corner and it's time pick up those school uniform essentials. It's a great idea to start your school shop before the rush exists, but to make those new shoes last all school year, you have to care for them right.
Term school shoes are high quality and built to last. They use double-dyed premium leather and memory foam insole and they also have stylish finishes like patent. But daily wear can take its toll. Here’s how to keep your child’s school shoes looking fresh and lasting longer.
1. Know Your Material: Patent vs Leather
Before you begin, it’s important to know what type of material you care for. Term have a variety of styles to suit your child and their uniform and many of these come in both patent and leather.
Patent leather shoes have a glossy, high-shine finish that looks sharp but can dull or scuff easily without the right maintenance.
Traditional leather shoes are breathable and durable. However, they need regular cleaning and conditioning to stay in good shape!
2. Daily Care Tips
A simple daily wipe-down can go a long way. Mud and playground dust should be removed with a slightly damp cloth (but never a soaking wet one) to prevent damage to both patent and leather finishes. For patent shoes, skip the harsh chemical cleaners. Instead, gently buff with a microfiber cloth and, when needed, use a small amount of patent cleaner or petroleum jelly to restore shine without risking damage.
3. Weekly Cleaning Routine
Once a week, set aside a few minutes to give school shoes a deeper clean. Leather shoe styles benefit from a gentle brush to remove surface dirt, followed by a leather cream to condition and nourish the material. Finish with a polish, neutral or colour-matched, to keep them looking smart and to help protect against scuffs.
Patent shoes don’t need quite as much attention but still deserve some care. A soft buff with a cloth is usually enough to restore their shine. Every few weeks, consider using a patent leather conditioner to maintain their signature glossy look.
4. Prevent and Treat Scuffs
Scuffs are a fact of school life, especially with kids shoes, but they don’t have to ruin the look. On leather styles, most small marks can be gently buffed away using a touch of polish. Patent shoes respond well to a dab of petroleum jelly applied with a cotton swab, rub it in gently, then wipe clean to reduce the appearance of surface scratches.
5. Storage Tips
When shoes aren’t being worn, proper storage helps preserve their shape and finish. Using shoe trees or simply stuffing them with paper will keep their form. Always store school shoes in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and radiators, as heat can dry out leather and cause damage over time.
With just a little regular attention, your kids' school shoes can stay looking polished and smart from the first bell of the term right through to the last. Whether they’re made of glossy patent or traditional leather, these care tips will help ensure they go the distance in comfort and style.
