How to Remove Salt and Deposits from Leather Goods

February 11, 2019

Although the calendar may say spring has come, in northern climes a glance out the window may still reveal more than a few stubborn snow banks and some persistent sleet. As weary as you may be with the long, drawn out winter, a quick glance down at your trusty footwear may give you a different kind of concern.
Take stock right now of the situation. Water damage is worrisome enough, but the ice and snow of a harsh winter poses a more serious issue: salt and sand may have saved a tumble on the glare ice, but dissolved and deposited deep into the pores of your footwear’s leather uppers it can spell disaster for the future of your favorite boots and shoes.
If you notice streaks of gray or white on your leather footwear, chances are good dissolved salts have been deposited after walks through snow, slush and water during the past winter. A treatment with Valentino Garemi’s Organic Eco Cleaner helps dissolve the residue which can then be removed from the shoes or boots with a soft cloth, beginning the revitalization of the leather. Along with a cleaning shoe brush and a cloth you can do a healthy need it elimination of those residues. For all napped leather footwear or garments, Valentino Garemi’s has the perfect and convenient all in one cleaning kit – see the Suede Cleaning Kit – Natural Leather Stain Remover.
Once the salt is removed, assess any water damage. The leather may seem tight or wrinkled -- think about how your fingers look after a long soak and you have an idea what you might see. The irony of water damage is the soaking actually dries out the leather, so look carefully for signs of cracking or flaking.
As the more temperate months of the year are approaching, we challenge you to commit yourself to a routine of regular shoe and boot care, no matter the weather. Browse our product lines for ideas, and be assured your valuable leathers will reward your efforts with years of comfortable and handsome service.

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