CARING FOR YOUR FIORENTINI + BAKER LEATHER AND SUEDE FOOTWEAR
Welcome to our guide on maintaining the beauty and longevity of your Fiorentini+Baker leather and suede footwear. Crafted with the finest materials and meticulous attention to detail, our artisanal footwear deserve the best care to keep them looking their best for years to come.
At Fiorentini+Baker, we take pride in using vegetable-tanned leather for our footwear. This traditional and eco-friendly method not only enhances the durability of our products but also imbues each piece with unique character and richness.
LEATHER FOOTWEAR CARE ESSENTIALS
1. Clean Gently with a Damp Sponge
Start by gently wiping your Fiorentini+Baker leather shoes/boots with a damp sponge to remove surface dirt and grime. This simple step ensures your shoes/boots are ready for deeper care.
2. Air Dry Naturally
Allow your leather footwear to air dry in a cool, shaded area. Avoid placing them near heat sources or direct sunlight, as this can cause the leather to crack or warp.
3. Buff with a Woollen Cloth
Once dry, use a woollen cloth to buff the surface. This restores the natural shine and texture, enhancing the inherent beauty of your high-quality shoes/boots.
4. Nourish with Natural Cream or Grease
For an added touch of elegance, apply a small amount of natural (animal fat-based) grease or shoe cream. This keeps the leather supple and hydrated.
5. Brush with Natural Bristles
After the product has been absorbed, gently brush your shoes/boots with a shoe brush featuring natural bristles. This ensures even distribution and brings out a rich shine.
6. Polish with a Wool or Cashmere Cloth
Finish the process by polishing your shoes/boots with a wool or cashmere cloth, adding an extra layer of sophistication to their appearance.
Regular application of beeswax or natural cream will maintain the elasticity and hydration of the leather. Remember to store your shoes/boots in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight, to preserve their quality. Our leather is vegetable tanned using natural pigments and that they can fade if left in strong sunlight for long periods of time.
SUEDE FOOTWEAR CARE TECHNIQUE
Our suede footwear requires a delicate touch to maintain its unique texture and look.
1. Use a Soft Brush
Gently brush your Fiorentini+Baker suede shoes/boots with a rubber or brass-bristled brush to remove dust and surface dirt. Always brush in the direction of the fiber to prevent damage.
2. Handle Mud Carefully
If your suede footwear has mud residue, let it dry completely before brushing it off. This prevents smearing and further staining.
3. Avoid Harsh Cleaners
Refrain from using harsh chemical cleaners or overly hard brushes. These can discolour or damage the suede, compromising its natural beauty.
4. Dry Naturally
Never expose wet suede shoes/boots to direct heat sources like stoves or radiators. Instead, allow them to dry naturally to prevent shrinkage or warping.
5. Minimise Water Exposure
Suede and water don’t mix well. Avoid getting your suede shoes/boots wet. If they do get wet, dry them naturally and stuff them with newspaper to maintain their shape.
6. Use Specialised Products
Invest in products specifically designed for suede care. These cleaners and sprays not only clean but also hydrate and protect the material.
7. Treat Stains Immediately
Act quickly when stains occur. Gently dab the affected area with a damp cloth or use a specialised suede stain remover.
HOW TO PREVENT LEATHER FROM CRACKING:
1. Clean and Condition Regularly: Use a leather conditioner to keep the material supple and moisturized.
2. Avoid Water Exposure: Protect leather from rain or spills. If it does get wet, dry it gently and condition it afterward.
3. Store Properly: Keep leather items in a cool, dry place with good ventilation. Avoid plastic covers, as they can trap moisture.
4. Protect from Sun and Heat: Use leather protectants and avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight or heat sources.
5. Use High-Quality Leather Products: Investing in full-grain or high-quality leather can significantly reduce the risk of cracking.
EMBRACE THE CRAFTSMANSHIP OF FIORENTINI+ BAKER
By following these shoe care tips, you ensure that your Fiorentini+Baker footwear retains its elegance and durability. Our shoes are crafted with care in Italy, embodying the perfect blend of heritage and contemporary style. Proper maintenance not only enhances their appearance but also honours the craftsmanship that goes into every pair.
Thank you for choosing Fiorentini+Baker. Your leather and suede footwear is more than just an accessory – it's a testament to timeless style and quality. Enjoy every step in your high-quality, artisanal shoes.
THE LEGACY OF FIORENTINI+BAKER
Fiorentini+Baker’s commitment to quality and craftsmanship is evident in every pair of boots we create. Our use of natural vegetable-tanned leather not only reflects our dedication to sustainable practices but also ensures that each boot ages gracefully, gaining a unique character over time. This dedication to traditional methods is what sets Fiorentini+Baker apart, creating footwear that is not only stylish but also built to last.
Proper care for your Fiorentini+Baker footwear is essential to maintain their beauty and extend their lifespan. Whether you own a pair of our exquisite leather boots or our delicate suede shoes, following these care instructions will help you preserve their quality and craftsmanship. From the art of vegetable tanning to the meticulous attention to detail in every stitch, Fiorentini+Baker footwear is designed to be cherished and enjoyed for years to come.