Care instructions

Keep your pair in perfect condition.

Handmade footwear improves with age. Learn how to clean, protect, and store your D'FOOTPRINT so it lasts for years of everyday wear.

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By material

Cleaning guides for each material

Each material responds differently to moisture, oils, and light. Follow the guide for your pair to keep it looking and feeling fresh.

Full-grain leather

Premium durable leather that develops a natural patina over time.

Brush off dirt with a soft, dry cloth or soft-bristled brush after each wear.

For stains, mix equal parts white vinegar and water; dab gently with a clean cloth.

Let air-dry completely away from direct heat or sunlight.

Every 2–3 months, condition with leather conditioner to prevent cracking.

Suede

Soft, delicate finish that requires gentle care and protection.

Brush with a dedicated suede brush to restore the nap (direction of the fibers).

For fresh stains, use a suede eraser or a pencil eraser gently.

For wet stains, let dry fully, then brush. Never rub while wet.

Apply suede protector spray every 6 months to repel water and dirt.

Fabric & textiles

Ankara, adire, linen, and other woven fabrics used in custom pairs.

Vacuum or brush gently to remove dust and loose dirt.

For stains, blot (don't rub) with a damp cloth and mild soap solution.

Rinse with distilled water on a cloth; press gently to remove excess moisture.

Air-dry completely away from heat. Steam or iron on low if needed after drying.

Patent leather

Glossy, waterproof finish that demands minimal care but shines with attention.

Wipe with a soft, damp cloth immediately after wear to remove dust.

For shine, use a microfiber cloth or dedicated patent leather cleaner.

Avoid abrasive materials; they dull the finish quickly.

Store in a cool place; excessive heat can warp or crack the coating.

Storage & preservation

Long-term care between wears

Daily storage

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Use shoe trees or stuff with tissue paper to maintain shape.
Keep in a dust bag or open container; plastic traps moisture.
Rotate between pairs to let each rest and breathe.

Seasonal storage

Before long storage, clean and condition leather thoroughly.
Ensure fully dry before packing; trapped moisture causes mold.
Wrap in acid-free tissue paper, not newspaper (ink transfers).
Store at 60–75°F and 30–50% humidity for best preservation.

Environment matters

Sunlight fades and cracks leather; keep pairs in shade.
High heat warps soles and degrades adhesives; avoid near radiators.
Humidity above 60% encourages mold; use desiccant packs if needed.
Temperature swings cause material expansion and contraction; keep stable.

Travel care

Pack in a soft dust bag to avoid scuffs during transport.
Stuff with socks or tissue to retain shape while in luggage.
Bring a microfiber cloth for quick cleanups away from home.
Upon return, let air out and clean before storing again.

Best practices

Do's and don'ts by material

Leather

✓ Do

✓Clean spills immediately with a soft cloth.
✓Use leather-specific conditioners and protectors.
✓Allow leather to breathe; avoid plastic bags.
✓Embrace the patina; it tells your story.

✗ Don't

✗Don't soak leather or submerge in water.
✗Don't use harsh chemicals, bleach, or acetone.
✗Don't dry near heat sources; let air dry.
✗Don't apply conditioner too frequently (every 3–6 months is enough).

Suede

✓ Do

✓Use a suede brush in one direction to restore texture.
✓Apply suede protector spray regularly.
✓Blot wet stains with a soft cloth.
✓Use specialized suede erasers for marks.

✗ Don't

✗Don't use water-based cleaners on suede.
✗Don't rub or scrub; suede is delicate.
✗Don't use a regular stiff brush.
✗Don't expose to rain without protective spray.

Fabric & Textile

✓ Do

✓Vacuum gently or brush away dust regularly.
✓Blot liquid spills immediately.
✓Use mild soap and cool water for stains.
✓Air-dry completely before wearing again.

✗ Don't

✗Don't rub or scrub fabric; you'll spread the stain.
✗Don't use bleach or strong detergents.
✗Don't machine wash or dry clean without checking care label.
✗Don't expose damp fabric to heat.

Product-specific

Care for different styles

Should I clean my slides differently than closed footwear?

Slides dry faster and accumulate less dirt inside, so weekly brushing is often enough. Closed styles need more attention to insoles; let them air out after each wear.

How do I care for custom-order pieces with mixed materials?

Treat each section according to its material. If your pair has leather and fabric, condition the leather separately and brush the fabric gently.

Can I wear my D'FOOTPRINT in the rain?

Leather and suede pairs should have protective spray applied before exposure. Fabric pairs with protective coating can handle light rain, but avoid puddles. Always dry thoroughly afterward.

What should I do if my pair gets wet?

Remove insoles and stuff with plain tissue paper or paper towels; change them every few hours. Let air-dry at room temperature away from heat. Never use a hairdryer or heater.

How often should I condition my leather pair?

Every 3–6 months with regular wear, or every 2–3 months if worn frequently. Conditioning prevents cracking and maintains suppleness.

My suede has lost its softness. Can I revive it?

Yes. Use a suede brush to restore the nap, then apply a suede protector. If that doesn't work, contact us—we can refresh the finish.

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