Read our simple step-by-step guide on how to properly clean and care for both your old and new leather shoes. With the right maintenance, they can last a lifetime.
At Memery, we want your new shoes and boots to serve you well for many years. Proper leather care is essential in achieving that goal. Regular maintenance keeps the leather soft and supple, improves its resistance to water and dirt, and—most importantly—helps preserve a shiny, fresh appearance. Looking after your shoes not only protects your investment but also supports sustainability by extending the life of your leather footwear.
Memery Leather Care
We’ve developed our own high-quality leather care product, our memery leathercare with mink oil balm, to help preserve the beauty and durability of your leather shoes, boots, and soles. With regular use, your Memery leather items will continue to look their best for years to come. The balm is transparent, making it suitable for black, brown, and all other leather colours.
Many of our footwear styles come with leather soles, just like traditional boots and shoes from the past. To help preserve them, we recommend applying leather care regularly to maintain flexibility and water resistance. This simple habit supports long-lasting quality and comfort.
Learn more about the benefits and care of leather soles here: Leather Soles: Benefits, Care, and Comparisons.
What You'll Need:
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A soft cloth or a leather brush
How to Use:
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Clean the leather: Gently remove dirt and dust using a soft cloth or brush.
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Apply the balm: Using a clean cloth or sponge, apply a small amount of mink oil balm in circular motions. Focus on dry or cracked areas, and remember to treat the outer leather soles as well.
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Let it absorb: Allow the balm to soak in for at least 30 minutes. For particularly dry leather, a second application may be needed.
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Buff the leather: Use a dry, clean cloth to buff the leather, removing any excess balm and restoring its natural shine.
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Repeat as needed: Reapply every few months, or as necessary, depending on wear and usage.
Our Ellen 1940s inspired shoes, treated with memery leather care.
How to Remove Oil Stains from Leather Shoes
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Gently dab the affected area with a paper towel to absorb any excess oil. Do this as soon as possible—avoid rubbing.
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Sprinkle baking powder or cornstarch over the stain and leave it for 30 minutes to absorb the oil.
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Carefully brush away the powder with a soft brush or toothbrush.
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Repeat the process if needed.
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Finish by applying leather care to replenish natural oils and create a protective barrier.
How to Remove Scratches from Leather Shoes
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Light scratches: Apply a thin layer of leather care to nourish the leather and even out the surface.
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Deeper scratches: Lightly dab the area with a cloth dipped in a small amount of white vinegar. Let it dry completely, then apply leather care. Repeat if necessary.
A pair of our Emma Oxfords in full-grain leather, treated with Memery Leather Care
The History of Mink Oil
Mink oil has been valued as a natural leather conditioner since the early 20th century, originally sourced as a byproduct of the fur industry. Rich in oleic acid—similar to the natural oils found in human skin—mink oil deeply conditions leather and replenishes its essential oils.
In addition to its moisturising properties, mink oil helps protect leather against water damage, making it ideal for outdoor footwear, bags, and jackets.
Ingredients:
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Mink Oil: 85%
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Beeswax: 5%
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Petroleum Jelly (Vaseline): 10%
Important: Do not use mink oil on suede styles such as Esther, Luise, Ida, or Ella. It is suitable for leather and leather soles only.
How to Clean Suede Leather Shoes
For suede shoe care, please read our dedicated guide: How To Clean Suede Shoes