Footwear is perhaps the most essential component of your attire. It completes your look while protecting your feet from sticks, pebbles, and other sharp objects. But what if you accidentally step into a puddle and ruin your beautiful pair of satins?
You might think your shoes are unsalvageable, but they aren’t! Keep reading to discover some tips on how to clean satin shoes in the safest and most effective ways possible.
A List of Things You’ll Need
Before jumping headfirst into cleaning your satin shoes, you need to consider a few things first. Satin shoes are substantially expensive with most varieties requiring careful and gentle cleaning. It’s essential to use the right tools before you start bringing back your heels’ long lost shine.
You’ll need:
Two Soft-Bristled Toothbrushes
A Small Cup
Mild Detergent
Cold Water
Clean Cloth or Towel
A Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Satin Shoes By Hand
Now that you’re aware of the items you’ll need for a safe and effective cleaning session, it’s time to start making those kicks shine. Here’s everything you’ll need to do:
Step 1: Gently Brush Away Any Loose Dirt or Debris
Using one of the toothbrushes, gently knock off any excess dirt from the shoes. Satin shoes are particularly susceptible to catching grit and debris, so make sure to do this at all costs.
Don’t rub the dirt into the shoes, though. This could damage the satin, which clearly isn’t ideal.
Step 2: Prepare a Cleaning Solution
Now it’s time to spot-clean your shoes. Take two to three parts cold water and mix it with one part mild detergent.
The amount of water depends on how strong you’d like the solution to be. Steer clear away from any harsh cleaners, as this could cause irreparable damage to your shoes.
Step 3: Clean the Shoes With the Solution You Made
Now, grab your other toothbrush and dip it into your solution. Tap it against your soap container to let any excess water drip away and start applying the solution to your shoes. Although it might sound trivial, this step is crucial to protect your shoes from sustaining water stains.
After that, gently clean your shoes with the brush by going over them in circular motions. Make sure that you reach every corner of your shoes, especially the part near the soles.
Step 4: Remove Stubborn Stains & Scuff Marks
Scuff marks can be pretty agitating, especially when they’re on white satin shoes. If you’re dealing with them too, it’s time to go the extra mile and get them off your footwear once and for all.
Grab yourself some baby powder and sprinkle it on the areas. Alternatively, you could use a pencil eraser and rub them off your shoes. From bridesmaids to suede shoes, these hacks can work brilliantly to get rid of those pesky stains.
Step 5: Leave the Shoes to Dry Overnight
Now, it’s time to dry your shoes. Using a soft damp cloth, dab off all the soapy residue. You could even rinse it off if you wanted to, but I feel like the using a cloth is a better idea.
Once you’re done, leave them in a secluded spot to dry overnight.
How Often Should You Clean Your Shoes?
There’s no definitive answer to this question. But ideally, people should clean their shoes once every two weeks or whenever they’re visibly dirty.
There’s a plethora of other variables people should consider too. If they brush their shoes regularly, a deep clean wouldn’t be all that necessary.
The material of the shoes matters too. More delicate ones, like those made of silk, shouldn’t be cleaned too frequently because you might risk damaging the material. Tougher shoes, like those made from leather, have greater resistance and can thus be washed more often.
Keep Your Pair of Satin Shoes Pristine By Cleaning Them Regularly!
And that, my friends, brings us to the conclusion of this succinct guide to washing footwear. Don’t forget to follow the aforementioned steps to the tee and commit to a regular cleaning regimen. This way you’ll be able to keep your satin shoes clean and in immaculate condition.
So, get ready to wear your shoes to an upcoming wedding or ball and tap the night away!
