The leather fabric is a go-to for shoes. Most women feel that it makes the shoe comfortable, stylish and usually more durable than others. However, as most people know, once you go outside in your sandals they are prone to show: dirt, water stains, and any other marks that cause them to lose that new look.

Clothing or any other thing made out of leather cannot be tossed into the laundry machine no matter how advanced the machine is. Instead, you must identify what needs to be done and what tools you need to do the job properly. Once you have everything thought through, you can take those sandals and get them looking fresh for the new season in no time.

Locate the Problems

Stains and discolorations can happen due to a lot of things, so you need to be sure you know where the problem is coming from and that you can fix the sandals - and protect them. For anyone who lives in a country where it rains a lot, you will notice that water is an unwelcome culprit at times. The sandal isn’t dirty, but it is not looking up to standard. One quick remedy involves a 1:1 ratio of white vinegar and water, which you can light blot on the discolored areas - this also works on salt stains on leather boots in the winter.[1] Make sure that you do not drown the leather in the cleanser. Only focus on the areas needed.

Clean the Shoe First

Before trying to fix anything, it is best to check your sandals and remove any dry debris or mud. If you do not do this, and you apply soap or conditioner, you will end up creating a muddy lather that will spread all over the shoes. Make sure you use a dry cloth or a dry soft-bristled brush to remove the debris. The ones with the wood handle are the best. An old toothbrush can also work wonders. Don’t forget that the leather might be soft. If this is the case, it can easily be scratched. Try to remove excess dirt without any force to prevent scratches or any other permanent damage on your delicate shoe.

Remove the Stains

When you look at the stains on your sandals and think - god knows where that came from - you are not alone. Stains can range from dirt, mud, or deeper stains of oil or wine. Start with something simple like dish soap or liquid hand soap. You will see that usually, this is enough. Refrain from using soap bar which has a higher HP level than leather,[2] and can end up drying it out instead - leaving you with a new problem. For larger, tougher stains you can go out a buy a leather conditioner that is available in most shoe stores or online eventually.

Give them a Wash

Begin by dampening a clean, soft cloth, then apply a small amount of the cleanser or leather conditioner to it. In small, even circles, gently rub the spot where there is dirt and create a small pool of lather. With another clean and even less damp piece of cloth, wipe away the lather and remove the product from the leather. Double check that you have removed everything completely the best you can. Do not make the cloth too wet or dirty. If the cloth that removes the product needs more water or gets too dirty, then grab another damp cloth and continue the process.

Dry them Out

Before you can slip on your sandals and strut your stuff, you need to make sure that they are thoroughly dry. If this is not certain and you venture outdoors, you risk getting dirt or debris stuck to the shoe which will seep in with the moisture and stain. This leaves you having to start the process all over again. Avoid that, make sure they are dry, and be ready to clean them again in a week or two depending.

Natural light is the best way to dry sandals,  but they cannot be left out directly in the sun. Find a nice spot for them where they are protected from the sun breaking them down and causing them to crack. Drying your sandals with a towel or rubbing with a cloth will not speed up the process. Just wait. You can clean your shoes two days before you need them so that the chances of the sandals being dry are higher and you can use them when you need them.