2 Very Important Topics

When you have a versatile, long lasting wardrobe a key element to keeping it looking good is maintenance.

I was recently asked about a stain removal protocol as well as the proper color of shoe polish.

I thought I'd share as it is super important to get these right.

Spot Cleaning Protocol

Here is a good cleaning protocol....what is the stain made of?

Blot with Water

Water is generally safe and won’t cause discoloration or other damage to your jacket. Therefore, you should first attempt to clean the stain by blotting it with a clean washcloth or paper towel and water. If the stain is new and hasn’t "set in" yet, this method may suffice. I’d use soda water…just seems to work better for me. So start with water…

Use Light Pressure

The general idea is to remove the stain by blotting it up instead of scrubbing it. The harder you scrub, the more set in the stain will become.

Don’t Use Hot Water on Wool Suit Jackets

If your wool jacket develops a stain, you shouldn’t attempt to clean it with hot water. Exposure to hot water can cause severe damage to a wool jacket.

Vinegar or Lemon Juice

You can’t go wrong when using vinegar or lemon juice to remove stains on a suit jacket. Because of their acidic properties, these substances are highly effective at removing most stains. As an added benefit, the acidic properties of vinegar and lemon juice will kill germs while leaving your jacket nice and clean afterward.

Dry-Cleaning

When in doubt, you can always take your suit jacket to the dry cleaners. Dry-cleaning is generally a safe and effective way to remove stains. Especially oil…they may have a commercial-grade cleaner to get that out.

Test Stain-Removing Products in Discreet Area

Depending on what caused the stain on your suit jacket, you may have to use a stronger cleaning agent, such as a chemical-based stain-removing product. If your suit jacket has a big stain on the front, for instance, test the stain-removing product on the interior before using it on the front.

Proper Polish

As far as the shoe polish especially for any color other than black...I'd go with a neutral cream...something with no color.

If you'd like your brown shoes darker, you can use a darker shade...but tread with caution. Start out with a shade darker...not more.

The general purpose of a shine is we just want the protection and to bring the luster back. It’s like moisturizing your skin. Something like this works well... https://www.kiwicare.com/en-us/products/kiwi-shoe-polish

So the next time you get them shined, or shine them yourself...stay neutral.

All the best-

DW