A pair of leather ballet shoes is an investment for any dancer. Not only are they essential for practice and performance, but they can also last for years with proper care and maintenance. Cleaning leather ballet shoes is an important part of proper care, as it can help them to maintain their look and feel after each use.
Steps to Clean Leather Ballet Shoes
1. Remove the shoe laces from the shoes. This makes it easier to clean around the eyelets and tongue of the shoe.
2. Use a soft brush or cloth to brush off any dirt or debris from the surface of the shoe.
3.
Make a solution of mild soap and warm water in a bowl. Soak a washcloth in this solution and wring out any excess water.
4. Gently scrub the cloth over the surface of the shoe, using small circular motions, avoiding any harsh scrubbing that could damage the leather.
5. Use a dry cloth to wipe away any remaining soap residue.
6. Stuff newspapers into each shoe to absorb moisture then leave overnight to air dry in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or heat sources.
Optional Steps
- Conditioning:
- Polishing:
- Using Leather Protector:
- (Optional) Condition your leather ballet shoes with a dedicated leather conditioner, using a cotton ball or soft cloth to apply it evenly across the surface of your shoes.
- (Optional) Polish your leather ballet shoes with a dedicated leather polish, using small circular motions with a soft cloth until all scuff marks are removed and you have achieved an even shine.
- (Optional) Apply a leather protector spray or cream to your shoes before storing them away for long periods of time, as this will help them stay looking new for longer.