How to clean and care for faux leather shoes – complete guide

Faux leather shoes are popular because they are durable, affordable, and often easier to maintain than real leather. But while faux leather doesn't require the same type of care as natural leather, the material still needs the right treatment to stay looking good, clean, and protected from everyday wear and tear.

Here you will find a simple and effective guide on how to clean and care for artificial leather shoes using Sneakers Leather Cleaner and Natural Leather Conditioner – two nature-based products that make the process simple, gentle and extremely effective.

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Why does artificial leather require proper care?

Faux leather is typically made from:

• PU (polyurethane)

• PVC (vinyl)

• Synthetic microfiber materials

Although it cannot dry out like natural leather, synthetic leather can:

• Become discolored

• Cracked and dull

• Collect sweat, dirt and dust

• Develop hard surfaces

Therefore, regular cleaning and protective care are essential.

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Products you need

For the most effective and safe treatment, we recommend:

• Sneakers Leather Cleaner – for cleaning

• Natural Leather Conditioner – for protection, care and impregnation

• 2 sponges – one for each product (important: never the same sponge)

• Microfiber cloth – should be damp , not dry

• Shoe tree – to keep the shape of the shoe while drying

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Step-by-step guide: How to clean faux leather shoes

1. Put shoe trees in the shoes

This helps to:

• Staying in shape

• Lift folds for better access

• Avoid new wrinkles during cleansing

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2. Remove loose dirt

Wipe the shoes with the damp microfiber cloth to remove dust, soil, and surface dirt.

This makes cleaning easier and more efficient.

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3. Clean the shoes with Sneakers Leather Cleaner

Sneakers Leather Cleaner is a Danish handmade natural product that cleans gently and effectively - perfect for artificial leather, plastic, vinyl and smooth surfaces.

How to do it:

1. Lightly dampen a sponge with water (it should not drip).

2. Apply a little Sneakers Leather Cleaner to the sponge.

3. Lather the product onto the shoe in circular motions .

4. Wipe off soap residue with a damp microfiber cloth .

5. Repeat the process if there are deeper stains.

6. Let the shoes air dry , completely away from heat.

The result is clean, fresh and matte artificial leather shoes – without damaging the material.

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4. Care and protect with Natural Leather Conditioner

Once the shoes are clean and completely dry, they are ready to be protected.

Natural Leather Balm is Denmark's #1 best-selling natural product for leather and artificial leather - and a fantastic solution for:

• Care

• Moisturize

• Protect

• Renew color

• Waterproof against water and salt spray

It contains only natural ingredients:

• Beeswax

• Coconut fat

• Lanolin

• Vegetable oils

How to use Natural Leather Conditioner on artificial leather:

1. Use a clean sponge that is only for conditioner.

2. Lightly swipe the sponge over the surface of the conditioner.

3. Remove the excess on the edge of the bucket (you will need very little).

4. Spread the conditioner in thin layers in circular motions.

5. Let the product penetrate – it dries quickly.

6. No post-polishing necessary.

Natural Leather Conditioner gives the shoes a beautiful, even finish without being greasy and at the same time protects against everyday wear and tear.

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5. Let the shoes rest

After applying conditioner, the shoes should be left alone for 10–20 minutes so that the product can work optimally.

The shoe tree can be left in place so that the shape is kept perfect.

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How often should artificial leather shoes be cleaned and cared for?

It depends on the usage, but as a rule of thumb:

• Light use: 1 time per month

• Normal daily use: Every 2 weeks

• Rainy weather/extra wear: Weekly

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Summary: The perfect routine for faux leather shoes

To keep faux leather shoes in top shape, you need:

1. Sneakers Leather Cleaner – cleans gently and effectively

2. Natural Leather Balm – nourishes, protects and impregnates

3. Damp microfiber cloth – important for removing foam

4. 2 sponges – one for each product

5. Shoe tree – provides the best shape and drying

This routine ensures that artificial leather lasts:

• Flexible

• Free from cracks

• Resistant to water and salt

• Nice and colorful