Choose shoe care by material first, then the job. A product that works on smooth leather may change the texture of suede, and a cleaner does a different job from a conditioner, colour spray or adhesive.
Which care does my footwear need?
Smooth leather
Remove loose dirt, then choose a cleaner labelled for the finish. Condition when appropriate, polish if you want colour or shine, and use a compatible protector. Test first: oils and creams can change the tone.
Explore leather careSuede and nubuck
Use a suede brush or cleaning block for suitable surface marks. Choose a suede-specific cleaner when needed and allow the material to dry as directed. Smooth-leather wax and cream can flatten the nap.
Find cleaners and prepPainted or customised shoes
Identify the underlying material and the paint system. For compatible smooth leather, Angelus recommends preparation followed by light paint coats. Fabric and rigid surfaces can require different additives and finishing methods.
Explore Angelus paint and preparationA practical routine
- Identify the surface. Check the shoe’s care label and distinguish smooth leather, suede, nubuck, patent, fabric or synthetic material.
- Choose one task at a time. Clean before conditioning or refinishing. A shoe horn, brush or correctly sized insert may solve your problem without a chemical treatment.
- Test a hidden area. Check colour, texture and finish after the test has dried.
- Follow the product label. Use the stated amount, ventilation, drying and curing instructions. Let footwear dry away from direct heat.
Common buying questions
Paint or dye?
Paint creates a surface colour layer. Dye colours compatible absorbent leather. The existing finish determines what will work; dye is not a way to turn dark leather into a lighter colour. Check the product’s material instructions before choosing.
Wax, cream or protector?
Choose polish for the colour and shine you want. Choose a conditioner for compatible leather care, and a protector for added resistance to moisture or stains. These functions can overlap, but the label should determine the order and compatibility.
Does a spray make shoes waterproof?
A protector can improve resistance on compatible material. It does not seal every seam or make all footwear waterproof. Match the product to your shoes and follow reapplication guidance.
Can I trim every insole?
No. Only trim an insole if that model is designed for trimming. Compare the size range, available shoe space and fitting instructions. A heel grip and a full-length insole solve different fit problems.
What should I buy for winter salt?
Choose a salt-stain remover labelled for your material. Follow its instructions and test for colourfastness. Once footwear is clean and dry, decide whether compatible conditioning or protection is needed.
How can I avoid buying the wrong item?
Check the selected size, colour, pack quantity and SKU. Read any product-photo note: a family image may show a different colour or bottle size. Contact us with the material and the job if you want help choosing.
Build your care kit
Start with the tools and products your footwear actually needs. Browse cleaners, polish and protection, insoles and comfort, or the Moneysworth & Best range.
Guidance checked against product information from Angelus and the Moneysworth & Best suede-care range. Product labels take precedence for application instructions. Reviewed September 2026.