How to get wrinkles out of leather shoes?
People love wearing leather shoes because why not? Leather is one of the best materials for making shoes thanks to its natural properties. However, it’s not all good when wrinkles appear on leather shoes. Personally, I like wrinkles in leather as they show the character of real leather, and I’m sure some people would agree with me. But usually, people don’t like creases or wrinkles on their shoes.
Worry not! In this article, we will discuss some very effective ways to get wrinkles out of leather shoes. But before that, let’s understand the factors that cause wrinkles in leather shoes.
Table of Contents
What causes shoe wrinkles or creases?
There can be multiple causes of creases and wrinkles in leather shoes. Here’s an overview of some common causes:
Walking and movement: The most common reason for wrinkles is the movement of shoes with our feet. When we walk or run, our toes bend periodically, causing creases on the shoes and the crease pattern can vary from person to person.
1.| Material
The material also plays an important role in causing creases. Smooth-finished leather is more prone to creasing than napped-finished leather. For instance, suede is far less susceptible to creases than top grain or nubuck leather.
2.| Size and fit
The fit of shoes also plays a significant role in causing wrinkles, which obviously depends on the size of the shoes. If the size is too large, it will cause a straight line crease, and believe me, that looks really ugly. On the other hand, if it’s too small, it will be very uncomfortable to wear.
3.| Storage
Always ensure proper storage, as improper storage can cause wrinkles and damage to the leather. If you have multiple pairs of leather shoes that you don’t use often, you should ensure proper storage for those not in use. Later, we will discuss how to store them properly.
4.| Lack of care
Lack of proper care not conditioning the leather, exposure to moisture or improper storage can cause wrinkles in leather shoes.
How to get wrinkles out of leather shoes?
Well, there are multiple ways you can remove wrinkles from your leather shoes. We have listed some of the most effective ways to do that without causing damage to the leather. Here’s the overview of the methods
1.| Put a shoe tree when storing
If you have a very expensive pair of shoes or multiple pairs of leather shoes that you don’t wear daily, you should ensure proper storage by using a shoe tree adjusted to your shoe size and shape. Be careful when choosing a shoe tree; it should be designed according to the shape of the shoe. Ideally, use one from the shoemaker itself.
2.| Apply conditioner and then stuff them with newspaper
You can also use newspapers to maintain the shape of your shoes. Just make sure the newspaper doesn’t contain acidic ink, or use plain paper to stuff your leather shoes. Before stuffing with paper, apply some leather conditioner and polish the shoes. Newspaper stuffing is a substitute for a shoe tree and can be used when you cannot find the right shoe tree for your shoes, as paper can take the shape of any shoe type.
3.| Try shoe stretching spray
You can use a good shoe stretching spray to remove wrinkles, as it makes leather more pliable and softer, making it easy to even out any creases. Spray both the inside and outside of the wrinkled area with stretching spray before putting them in a shoe tree, or alternatively, stuff them with newspaper if you don’t have a shoe tree. Then, press the wrinkles with your fingers against the stuffing to make the wrinkled surface smooth. Leave it to dry naturally before removing the shoe tree. Just make sure not to stuff it too hard, as it can cause the whole leather shoe to stretch.
4.| Try silicon based product
You can also consider using silicon-based products like toothpaste to remove wrinkles, but only as a last resort if other methods fail. Keep in mind that silicon-based products can dry out leather and cause cracks. Apply a small amount of toothpaste inside the leather and let it sit for a few minutes. Then, wipe it off with a rag. Avoid using toothpaste on the outside of the shoe.
5.| Use steam
You can use steam to remove creases, but it should be considered as a last resort when none of the above methods seem to work. Move the steamer over the wrinkled area, but avoid using it for too long, as excessive heat can damage the leather.
Conclusion
We hope you find our article useful, eliminating the need to ask anyone else how to get wrinkles out of leather shoes. These methods are among the most effective for maintaining your shoes and removing creases. However, keep in mind that the last two methods (silicon and heat) should only be used when none of the others seem to work.
In my opinion, mild wrinkles add character to leather shoes, showcasing the flexible nature of animal skin. However, deep wrinkles that alter the shoe’s shape can appear shabby and should be addressed.
You can also seek professional help to remove wrinkles, although this method can be expensive. A professional can ensure proper treatment, but be sure to conduct thorough research to find a reputable shoe repair service.
For more information on leather products, you can check our other articles or you can contact us. LeatherBlues is known as one of the best stores for real leather products. Explore our amazing collection of leather garments and services.
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