How to Clean Scuff Marks on Patent Leather

Clean scuff marks from patent leather shoes with regular household products.

Patent leather's glossy appearance results from a coating of lacquer on the surface. This eye-catching material is commonly used to make shoes, handbags, boots and accessories. To remove scuff marks on patent leather, there's no need to buy special cleaners. "Good Housekeeping" recommends that you use common household products.

Things You'll Need

• 3 microfiber cloths
• Mild soap
• Cotton swabs
• Rubbing alcohol
• Mineral oil

Instructions

1. Dampen a microfiber cloth with warm water and two or three drops of mild soap. Wipe down the entire leather part of the shoe, including the scuff marks.

2. Wipe the shoe with a clean, wet cloth.

3. Dip a cotton swab in rubbing alcohol. Rub the scuff marks gently until they disappear.

4. Dampen a microfiber cloth with a small amount of mineral oil. Wipe down the outside of the shoe for a glossy shine. Buff away any excess with a clean, dry cloth.

References

• Good Housekeeping: How to Clean Patent-Leather Shoes
• Good Housekeeping: Removing Scuff Marks from Patent Leather