Looking after your shoes leads to a great first impression.
That’s the reason we wear our nicest brogues to the office or old trainers for gardening. But in today’s stressful environment neglecting our shoes is becoming a more common occurrence.
Here are five common shoe care mistakes that, if avoided, will save you money and make your best shoes last longer than you ever imagined.
1. Keep Them Clean
Without cleaning your shoes, they are only going to deteriorate rapidly. Dirty shoes also make for a poor first impression, not least in the workplace.
You can opt for a classic technique such as water and spray. Alternatively, if your shoes need a deeper clean, companies like Pathogen Solutions are pioneering new technologies to make sure your shoes remain germ-free and well-maintained.
2. Store Them Respectfully
Your shoes deserve a home, to be placed neatly in their own place.
You might choose to use a shoe rack or shoe tree. Or, if you live the life of a minimalist, having a tidy home for them will make sure that any damage is minimized, and they keep their shape for longer.
Tip: Don’t store leather shoes near a radiator. Your shoes will dry out in no time.
3. Make Sure They Fit
Wearing a pair of shoes that are fitted correctly has many benefits. Firstly, they will support your feet better and result in fewer back problems later in life. But well-fitting shoes will also retain their shape and look for longer, as they won’t stretch in places they shouldn’t.
You will find newfound confidence comes with well-fitting shoes, and you’ll want to spend more time looking after them as a result.
4. Dress for the Weather
It’s easy to overlook, but it’s a good idea to have shoes for every occasion. Seasons can affect the quality of your shoes more than you think.
Wearing your work shoes in the snow, for example, will not only end up with wet feet, but you’ll end up swapping them out quicker than you hoped. So, make sure you always have a back-up pair, just in case.
5. Fix Your Shoes if They Break
If your shoes get damaged for whatever reason, freshen them up by giving them some TLC.
Whether it’s as simple as replacing dirty laces or taking them to a professional to have them repaired and reconditioned to look like new, it may seem costly at first, but you wouldn’t swap your car because you had a chipped windscreen.
Fewer Shoe Care Mistakes Means Fewer Shoes
Your shoes are a reflection of your identity. A well-kept, tidy pair of shoes goes a long way, especially in a professional setting.
Taking care of your shoes should be seen as a financial investment. Ultimately it means you will get more enjoyment out of your attire, be taken more seriously at work, and feel good about saving money.
Make these shoe care mistakes a thing of the past and keep reading for more fashion advice to keep your professional attire in the best shape.