Leather
Leather is cleaned to remove dust, sweat salt and old polish build-up, then conditioned so it stays supple instead of cracking. Scuffs on the surface can often be reduced; deep cuts in the leather can’t be repaired by cleaning.
Suede and nubuck
Suede is never soaked. It’s cleaned dry, spot-treated, and brushed to raise the nap. Water spots usually even out; oil and grease marks may stay faintly.
Monsoon care
If leather shoes get soaked, stuff them with newspaper and let them dry at room temperature, away from heaters and direct sun. Then send them for cleaning before white salt lines set.