CARE & MAINTENANCE
Congratulations, you’re the proud owner of O’Keeffe shoes!
They are designed to be with you for a long time, but in order to preserve their good looks you need to know how to care for them.
Our care guide will answer the most common questions about shoe care.
If you don’t find what you’re looking for, don’t hesitate to reach out to our friendly customer service team.
General Care
Our shoes are made by hand using the best natural leathers, colours, and components. Due to their artisanal crafting, you might find tiny differences in the leather patination of each shoe. People who love fine craftsmanship don’t see these marks as imperfections. They are signs of uniqueness and add to the character of each pair of shoes.
If they get wet, for instance with rain, do not expose them directly to heat or hot air – for instance, a radiator or hair dryer – but allow them to dry naturally.
Always use the dust bag provided to store your shoes. A shoe tree would be useful either.
Try to avoid wearing your shoes for more than two days in a row. Like human beings, they need time to rest and breathe.


Waxed Leather Care
Waxed leather does not have a natural shine, so it should be treated with wax, not polish. We suggest using natural wax, which offers protection against dirt and stains and keeps the leather supple.
The first time you use wax try it on a small, not too visible area, to see how it looks on your boots. If you are satisfied with the result, proceed as follows. First, clean your boots thoroughly to remove any dirt, mud or grime, then apply a small amount of wax to a cloth and rub evenly over the entire shoe.
Leave to rest for at least 45-60 minutes – overnight is best – before wearing your boots again
Artisan Hand Polished
Our shoes undergo many intricate processes to achieve their distinctive patina, so take extra care when cleaning their surface.
Do not use ready-made polish sponges, as these could damage the hand-polished finishing. Follow these steps, instead. First, gently remove any dirt with a cotton cloth. Then, using a small amount of natural wax polish and a soft, clean cloth, massage the shoe with circular motions to allow the wax to penetrate the pores of the leather. This helps the polish to hydrate and nourish the leisure.
And don’t forget to clean the welt and the heel too! When finished, remove any excess wax and leave to dry.


Suede
We know it’s tempting, but resist the urge to use a suede brush when cleaning suede shoes. Wire brushes are quite harsh and can mark the leather. Instead, try carefully steaming your suede shoes, taking care not to scald yourself.
Please note that, due to the colouring process, some suedes can transfer colour onto light fabrics, so remember to take off your shoes when lounging on light sofas or armchairs.
Aged & Washed
These shoes have been washed and distressed by hand, and we recommend not polishing or treating them to retain their distinctive good looks.
If they get wet, don’t panic! Allow them to dry naturally, and that scruffy charm will return in no time.

If you have any other questions about how to clean and maintain your shoes, don’t take risks and write to us first at customerservice@okeeffe-shoes.com. We’ll help you.