Steve Madden shoes epitomize style, blending contemporary design with timeless elegance. As treasured fashion statements, maintaining their cleanliness ensures not only a polished appearance but also prolongs their durability. A well-kept pair of Steve Maddens showcases one’s commitment to fashion and attention to detail.
General Guide to Clean Steve Madden Shoes
Supplies Required
- Mild soap or shoe cleaner
- Soft bristle brush or toothbrush
- Soft cloth or sponge
- Warm water
- Bowl or small container
- Newspaper or shoe trees
- Towel
Detailed Instructions
Prepare the Cleaning Solution
Mix a few drops of the mild soap or shoe cleaner in the bowl or small container with warm water. Stir until you get a soapy mixture.
Remove Excess Dirt
Before you start cleaning, knock the soles of the shoes together gently to remove any loose dirt. For stubborn dirt, use a dry, soft bristle brush or toothbrush.
Wet the Cloth or Sponge
Dip the soft cloth or sponge into the soapy water. Make sure it’s damp, not soaked. Wring out excess water if needed.
Clean the Shoe
Gently scrub the shoe with the damp cloth or sponge in circular motions. Pay extra attention to stains or heavily soiled areas. If necessary, use the soft bristle brush or toothbrush for these areas.
Wipe and Rinse
After cleaning, use a clean, damp cloth to wipe off any soapy residue from the shoe. If needed, rinse the cloth in clean water and wipe again.
Dry the Shoes
Never expose shoes to direct heat, as it can warp them. Instead, place crumpled newspaper inside the shoes to maintain shape and absorb moisture. Let them air dry in a well-ventilated area.
Final Touch
Once the shoes are dry, if they have laces, re-lace them. For leather shoes, give them one more quick buff with a soft cloth for added shine.
Cleaning Steve Madden Shoes made from Different Materials
Steve Madden’s official website recommends the following methods to clean the shoes according to the material from which shoes are made. Sometimes, the stains are so stubborn that they won’t come off with a simple cleaning. Hence, you need a more potent way of cleaning your shoes like the one explained above.
Fabric Shoes: Hand wash fabric shoes monthly to maintain their fresh appearance. To retain their form, fill them with newspaper, swapping it out as it becomes saturated. Using newspaper can also hasten the drying time.
Nubuck: Use a soft brush or wipe with a soft cloth to remove surface dirt.
Patent Leather: Wipe away surface dirt using a moist cloth. From time to time, use a light cream polish or a slight layer of Vaseline. To ensure the leather remains supple, use a conditioner or protector. For effective cleaning of patent leather, utilize Windex.
Satin: Steve Madden recommends only dry cleaning for their satin shoes. However, cleaning the satin shoes at home is safe and equally beneficial.
Suede: Use a suede brush or fine-grit sandpaper to clean and rejuvenate the texture of the suede while dislodging dirt. Avoid using water on the suede to prevent mineral-induced spots. For stubborn marks like paint or glue, fine sandpaper can be effective. Utilize a gum eraser or the smoother side of an emery board to tackle specific spots.
Spot Cleaning Steve Madden Shoes
Spot cleaning focuses on addressing specific stains or areas of dirt without cleaning the entire shoe. This method is efficient for quick touch-ups and ensuring that Steve Madden shoes retain their original look without excessive washing.
Oil/Grease Stains
Blot the stain gently with an absorbent cloth to lift off excess oil. Sprinkle some cornstarch or baby powder on the stain and let it sit for a few hours, then brush off. The powder helps absorb the grease, making it easier to remove.
Ink/Paint Stains
Dab the stain with a cloth dipped in isopropyl alcohol or nail polish remover. Gently blot, don’t rub, as rubbing can spread the stain. Rinse the area with cold water after treating.
Grass Stains
Mix a solution of warm water and a few drops of mild detergent. Using a soft brush, scrub the stained area gently in a circular motion. Rinse with cold water and blot dry with a towel.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I wash my Steve Madden shoes?
Steve Madden shoes should be cleaned as needed, depending on wear. For regular use, a monthly spot cleaning or gentle wash is recommended to maintain their appearance and integrity.
How do you clean buckles on Steve Madden shoes?
A simple and effective method is to utilize an old toothbrush paired with toothpaste. Gently scrub the buckle and wipe off the residue using a damp rag or give it a quick rinse under cold water.
How do you remove smells from Steve Madden shoes?
To eliminate odors, sprinkle the inside of the shoes with baking soda and let it sit overnight. In the morning, tap out the excess. Baking soda acts as a natural deodorizer, absorbing unpleasant smells.
How to clean the inside and insole of Steve Madden Shoes?
For the inside and insole, use a mixture of warm water and mild soap. Gently scrub using a soft brush, then wipe with a damp cloth. Allow the shoes to air dry completely, ensuring moisture doesn’t remain, which can lead to odors or mold.