Gather the necessary materials
To polish leather Oxford shoes, you will need a few key materials: shoe polish in the appropriate color for your shoes, a soft cloth or brush, a polish applicator brush, and a shoe tree or rolled-up newspaper. The shoe polish should be specifically designed for leather shoes to ensure the best results.
Clean the shoes
Before applying polish, it is important to clean the shoes to remove any dirt, dust, or debris that may be on the surface. Use a soft cloth or brush to gently remove any loose dirt from the shoes. If there are any stubborn stains or marks, you can use a leather cleaner or mild soap mixed with water to gently clean the area. Be sure to let the shoes dry completely before moving on to the next step.
Apply the polish
Once the shoes are clean and dry, it’s time to apply the polish. Take a small amount of shoe polish on the polish applicator brush and start applying it to the shoes in small circular motions. Make sure to cover the entire surface of the leather, including the toe, sides, and heel. Use a light touch and build up the polish gradually for a more even finish.
Buff the shoes
After the polish has been applied, it’s time to buff the shoes to achieve a high shine. Take a soft cloth or brush and begin buffing the shoes using quick back-and-forth motions. This will help to distribute the polish evenly and remove any excess. Continue buffing until the shoes have a smooth, glossy finish. If desired, you can also use a horsehair brush for an extra shine.
Maintain the shine
To maintain the shine of your leather Oxford shoes, it is important to regularly clean and polish them. Use a soft cloth or brush to remove any dirt or dust before applying polish. Additionally, consider using a leather conditioner or cleaner to keep the leather nourished and prevent it from drying out or cracking. It is also recommended to store your shoes with a shoe tree or rolled-up newspaper to help maintain their shape.