How to Clean Rockport Shoes

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As you are about to take your first walk in a new pair of Rockport shoes, you might wonder briefly about the best way to keep them looking good and smelling fresh and not funky. You also want to avoid spending money on premature replacements. Rockport shoes, like most shoes, last longer, look better, keep their shape longer and retain water resistance better when given proper, regular care. A key to keeping shoes looking and smelling great is to avoid wearing them when they are wet or damp.

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Things You'll Need

  • Soft, dry cloth

  • Damp cloth

  • Scrub brush

  • Shoe polish

  • Nubuck rubber eraser

  • Suede brush

  • Soap

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Leather Shoes

Step 1

Remove, wash and dry any shoelaces.

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Step 2

Remove excess dirt by wiping leather gently with a soft, dry cloth.

Step 3

Clean by wiping leather with a damp cloth.

Step 4

Brush any fabric gently with damp scrub brush, avoiding the leather.

Step 5

Allow the leather to dry naturally.

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Step 6

Apply polish and buff.

Step 7

Replace any shoelaces.

Suede and Nubuck Shoes

Step 1

Remove, wash and dry any shoelaces.

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Step 2

Remove soil with a firm nubuck rubber eraser.

Step 3

Brush with a suede brush.

Step 4

Replace any shoelaces.

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Soles

Step 1

Remove excess dirt by wiping gently with a soft, dry cloth.

Step 2

Clean by wiping with a damp cloth.

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Step 3

Dry by wiping with a clean, soft, dry cloth.

Removable Inserts and Insoles

Step 1

Remove inserts and insoles.

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Step 2

Use minimal soap and water. Brush inserts and insoles lightly with scrub brush.

Step 3

Allow inserts and insoles to air dry before returning to shoes.

Gore-Tex Linings

Step 1

Use just a little mild soap on a damp cloth and gently rub the Gore-Tex interiors of the shoes.

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Step 2

Wipe gently with a dry cloth.

Step 3

Allow to air dry thoroughly before wearing the shoes.

Tip

Using a silicone spray on leather, suede and nubuck shoes when they are new and after each cleaning can protect them from water and stains.

To allow perspiration and any moisture to dry thoroughly, avoid wearing the same shoes two days in a row.

Clean any Gore-Tex linings every six months.

Warning

Using the washing machine to launder shoes not clearly identified as machine washable is likely to be hazardous to the health of your shoes, and perhaps your washer.

Do not attempt to dry shoes by an open fire or on a radiator.

Using protective silicone sprays can darken the leather of your shoes.

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