Save our soles! Cobblers on the 15 best ways to look after your shoes

March 12, 2026

TL;DR

Most shoes, including vegan ones, can be repaired by cobblers, extending their life and reducing waste.
Choosing quality footwear, checking leather lining, and looking for sturdy construction in vegan shoes are important.
Resole leather-soled shoes with rubber for durability and grip, especially for new purchases.
Nourish leather shoes with oil to keep them supple and prevent drying out.
Rotate footwear to allow midsoles to decompress and dry, which prolongs shoe life.
Prevent excessive wear by using toe and heel hole preventers before damage occurs.
Clean shoes regularly with a damp cloth and warm water; avoid washing-up liquid.
Polish leather shoes sparingly with quality products, focusing on high-wear areas like the toe and heel counter.
Never put shoes in a washing machine or tumble dryer, as heat and detergents can destroy glue and components.
Avoid direct heat for drying; instead, use newspaper or shoe trees and dry at room temperature.
Stinky shoes and squeaks can often be fixed by cobblers or with home remedies like deodorizers.
Use appropriate shoe glue for repairs; generic glues can make shoes irreparable.
Use a shoehorn to prevent damage to the heel of the shoe when putting them on.
Replace tatty laces to refresh the appearance of tired shoes.
Store shoes in their original boxes to protect them from sunlight and absorb excess moisture.

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