How to clean thrifted leather shoes?

Submitted by AM03__ t3_11cm0pm in BuyItForLife

I bought a pair of Bostonian leather shoes at goodwill the other day, I can’t tell if it’s a bifl brand but they look decently sturdy. Anywho, I’m wondering how I can clean them. They are in good condition, but the sole has some cakes on dirt, edges of the soles are peeling, and the inside of the shoes are clearly a bit worn. I’ve been looking at getting saddle soap and leather conditioner, I’m wondering if I clean the sole the same as the rest of the shoe? How about the inside? Thank you!

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Thumper1k92 t1_ja3uq2w wrote

Bostonians are fine, but they will fall apart after a few years, and I don't think they can be resoled

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mad_dog_94 t1_ja4kwtr wrote

Isopropyl alcohol will clean them really well. You need to condition them after though because otherwise the alcohol will dry out the leather a lot. Can't speak to the brand but that's how I clean my boots and sneakers

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Muncie4 t1_ja57r8b wrote

Take them to a cobbler, say, "Make dis good". Return in 7 days and get good shoes for 10-20 bucks. It will likely be cheaper and easier in the long run.

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F-21 t1_ja6ljcy wrote

I'd clean the rubber parts with regular detergent, and the leather with saddle soap. Then apply mink oil or neatsfoot oil to the leather to condition it and they should be like new.

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