How To Protect Shoes From Salt & Grit Damage 

As the weather gets colder, sorry freezing, grit and salt are spread on roads and pavements to help provide some grip beneath shoes and car tyres. As the UK prepares for “the big freeze”, with some areas hitting -4, grit is already being laid on our pavements and roads in preparation.  However, this salt can cause unsightly marks on suede and leather shoes. Salt-damaged shoes mean ghastly white stains on leather shoes; the salt spreads with water into leathers and suedes. 

We’ll explain what leather and suede salt stains actually are, how to remove shoe salt stains and how to prevent them. Salt-damaged shoes can be cleaned and restored to their original glory it’ll just take a little patience in getting there. 

How road salt and grit damage footwear

When temperatures are predicted to drop below freezing salt and grit will be used on roads to improve road safety. Road salt prevents ice from forming on a road's surface by dissolving in any water present on the surface. This new solution of salt and water has a much lower freezing point than water alone. Cars and pedestrians experience better grip thanks to the rough road surfaces and ice won’t form as easily either - if it does it’ll be far less slippery.

However great for grip, these road salts are actually corrosive, leaving white stains on leather shoes: drying out leather and suede on contact. If you’ve noticed white staining on your leather shoes, we still recommend cleaning the affected area to preserve the leather. 

How salt damages shoes 

1. Staining

Salt can stain shoes, especially leather shoes, which can be unsightly and ruin their appearance. They often have a white ring around the toes and heels where grit has stained footwear, which can scar leather shoes. 

2. Weakening

Salt can weaken the finish of shoes, particularly leather shoes. Due to the nature of grit and salt, it can cause cracking and scarring, which can be incredibly damaging and difficult to repair.

3. Drying out

Leather is porous and requires moisture to maintain a shiny, healthy appearance. Salt can dry out leather, which can cause it to crack, split, and become brittle. 

How to prevent and remove salt stains from shoes

Applying a thin layer of wax polish can protect shoe leather from salt and grit by creating a healthy barrier, helping the leather stay moisturised and supple. Use a damp cloth and the methods outlined below to remove salt from your shoes to prevent salt damage.

For a DIY option, mix equal parts water, vinegar, and lemon juice, apply the mixture to a cloth, and wipe the shoes. This solution is very effective in removing dirt and stains without damaging the shoes.

How to remove shoe salt stains 

To remove salt stains from leather and suede we recommend using the Saphir Salt Stain Remover which works at dissolving the salt sat in the stain. Simply apply sparingly to your shoes focus on the white salt-stained areas, wipe away and buff the area with a suede brush or cloth.  

Alternatively, you can always try cleaning the salt stain with a damp cloth, this can be done while your shoes are still wet. Gently work the area being careful not to scrub as this will damage the leather. Use a shoe conditioner/cream to replenish the leather's lost oils. Salt is extremely drying so you’ll need to rectify this with a quality conditioner. 

Cleaning leather salt stains 

1. Remove excess salt and grit by simply brushing the shoes 

2. Make a cleaning solution of white vinegar and water or use  Saphir Salt Stain Remover

3. Apply the solution with a soft cloth wiping the affected area gently in one single direction. Move in a top-down motion, this moves the salt to the edge of the sole, use a fresh part of the cloth every time you do so. Pay special attention to this area once you’ve finished cleaning the leather, with a clean cloth work into this area, again using the one-direction method

4. Allow the leather to air dry naturally and repeat the steps if you’re still left with white salt stains 

5. Apply and re-apply leather conditioner as often as needed 

6. Protect with a final spray of invulner spray

Cleaning suede salt stains 

1. Remove excess salt and grit by brushing the suede of any salt crystals 

2. Mix a very small amount of mild cleaning detergent and warm water or use  Saphir Salt Stain Remove 

3. Dab the solution onto the stained suede with a soft cloth, gently working the stain. Wipe in one direction, top-down, moving the salt to the edge of the sole, using a fresh part of the cloth with every swipe. Focus on this area when you’ve finished cleaning the salt stain - again using a one-direction sweep, clean this area with a clean/fresh damp cloth 

4. Allow the shoes to dry naturally and repeat the process if you’re still seeing white stains on your leather shoes 

5. Using a suede brush, brush the suede to restore 

6. Protect with a final spray of Invulner spray