Sperry loafers should be cleaned carefully to avoid damaging the leather. For suede and nubuck leather it is sufficient to use a brush, while ordinary leather should be washed with a mild detergent. Read on to learn more.
Steps
Method 1 of 5: First Method: Brush
Step 1. Use a soft bristle brush or a mild toothbrush to remove dirt and dust
- This method is mainly used for suede and nubuck, which are more delicate and less resistant materials than leather.
- Brush in a steady motion in the same direction, or you may leave marks.
- If possible, use a rubber bristle brush instead of a nylon one - you'll prevent marks.
- Focus on the dirtiest areas.
Step 2. Boil some water and place the shoes about 12 inches away from the pot to allow the steam to dissolve the dirt
- This method is suitable for suede Sperry, not nubuck.
- Do not get them too close to the steam: the suede reacts immediately to humidity, and prolonged exposure could damage it.
Step 3. Rub the shoes with a chamois sponge; pass it especially on stains and marks
You can slightly dampen the sponge before removing the most stubborn stains; it does not get wet easily, but still pay attention
Step 4. Brush the shoes with the soft bristle brush to remove any stuck hair and restore the original look of the shoes
If you don't, the shoes will lose their texture
Step 5. Treat them with a protective spray
Apply a thin layer.
- This step is optional but will promote the longevity of your shoes.
- After spraying the product, let them dry for 24 hours.
Method 2 of 5: Second Method: Water and Soap
Step 1. Remove the laces and soles and set them aside:
they must be washed separately, or the laces will fray.
- If they are considerably dirty, replace them.
- The soles are easily removed. Grab one end, lift it up and pull it back to pop it out.
Step 2. Wet the shoes in a bucket of cold water or spray it directly on the shoes
Avoid hot water, which could cause them to shrink
Step 3. Wash them with 15ml of mild dish soap and a soft toothbrush or leather brush
Rub the shoe as much as possible.
Opt for a detergent that has no dyes or perfume - these chemicals could cause a negative reaction
Step 4. Scrub the soles
Dip the soft brush in a solution of water and dish soap and use it to scrub both sides.
For strong odors, you can sprinkle dry soles with baking soda or foot deodorant powder by scrubbing them with a soft toothbrush. Do not drop either product on the skin
Step 5. Let the footwear dry in a partially sunny place for 24 hours
- Avoid direct sunlight, or the skin may crack due to dryness.
- The soles should also be left to dry in the same way.
Step 6. Apply a softening product with a cloth
- The detergent tends to dry out the skin, so the softener will allow it to revitalize itself.
- Put the laces and soles back into the shoes.
Method 3 of 5: Third Method: Stain Removal with the Nail Polish Remover
Step 1. Wet the shoes with cold water or spray only the heavily stained areas
This method is for removing stains only, not for cleaning shoes, and is most effective on fair skin
Step 2. Dip a cotton ball into the nail polish remover and squeeze it to remove excess
For best results, use an acetone-based one
Step 3. Apply it to the stains by dabbing until they are removed
Do not rub: it would be too aggressive
Step 4. Let them dry
Place them in a partially sunny spot for 24 hours.
Avoid direct light, or they may dry out
Step 5. Apply a fabric softener following its instructions
Method 4 of 5: Fourth Method: Skin Cleanser
Step 1. Remove the soles and laces, which you will wash yourself
Step 2. Wash both sides of the soles with warm water, a mild dish soap and a soft toothbrush
Remove strong odors by sprinkling baking soda or foot deodorant powder with a dry toothbrush
Step 3. Apply the leather cleaner with a soft cloth
Gently massage it.
It is better to use a microfiber cloth. Avoid abrasive ones and paper towels
Step 4. Rub the shoes gently in a circular motion over the entire surface and focusing on the dirtiest areas
Step 5. Remove dust with a soft bristle brush or old soft toothbrush
If you don't notice any dust or debris, you can skip this step
Step 6. Apply a softening product to the skin using a cloth and massage
- Follow the instructions on the package for optimal application.
- Make small, circular movements. Apply light pressure.
Step 7. Let the shoes dry for 24 hours in indirect sunlight, or they may dry out
Method 5 of 5: Fifth Method: Washing Machine
Step 1. Remove the soles and place them in a protective washing machine bag or pillowcase you no longer use (tie them to prevent them from coming out, getting lost or damaged)
Remove the strings as well
Step 2. Put everything in the washing machine, add the detergent and set a long wash cycle in cold water
Warm or hot water could cause them to shrink or crack
Step 3. Let it dry in indirect sunlight for 24 hours
Step 4. Apply a thin layer of fabric softener or mink oil
Follow the instructions on the package carefully.
