How to Choose the Right Shoe Brush
Updated: 1 day ago
Not all brushes are alike: the wrong bristles can scratch leather instead of cleaning it. Here is how to choose.
Shoe brush bristles: what to look for
Shoe brushes differ mainly in bristle stiffness. Soft bristles (horsehair or fine nylon) are suitable for gentle cleaning and final polishing. Medium bristles remove light dirt from smooth leather. Stiff bristles are best reserved for durable materials such as rubber soles.
Golden rule
Always use the softest brush that gets the job done. Bristles that are too stiff can easily damage leather.
Brushes for different materials
Smooth leather — medium bristles for cleaning, soft bristles for final polishing
Suede and nubuck — a dedicated brush with rubber or soft metal bristles to revive the nap
Fabric and mesh — a soft brush with a small amount of mild cleaner
Rubber soles — a stiff-bristled brush, with a little water if needed
Cleaning your brushes
A dirty brush spreads dirt instead of removing it. Shake it occasionally to remove dust trapped between the bristles. From time to time, wash it with lukewarm water and mild soap, then leave it to dry horizontally with the bristles facing down.
How many brushes do you really need?
Three brushes cover most needs: a medium-bristled brush for general cleaning, a soft brush for final polishing and one for the soles. If you have suede shoes, add a brush made specifically for suede.
