Dear untouchblz, The answers to your more recent questions are really contained within the prior answers.Is there something that is not clear about those answers? There seems to be some question or confusion or basic idea which is preventing you from seeing clearly the answer already given, so perhaps we can unearth it and find the answer you seek.
Hello, thank you for the video. I just purchased a couple of tins of beeswax in order to waterproof my leather shoes. I have several shoes that I have yet to wear. How should I apply the beeswax in order to waterproof the stitching and the leather? Will the beeswax affect the shine/wax? How should I apply the beeswax to my older shoes that have wax/shine already on them from previous cleaning and shining?
@untouchblz Thanks for your questions. Remove dust/dirt from your shoes with a stiffer brush, or mild soap and water and then dry. Rub a dollop of beeswax into the leather with your fingers using a circular motion that rubs the wax in deeply. Let it sit while you do the other shoe/boot. Then buff with a soft cloth and let sit for a few hours before wearing, so the leather can absorb the wax. No need to be concerned about past polishes/waxes. Beeswax will remove stains.
@ModernButlers Thank you for the reply! Does beeswax replace traditional shoe polish? If I want to apply polish can I do it right after the beeswax rests/absorbs?
@untouchblz Beeswax has no color, so shoe polishes are needed to maintain the color on the leather. As long as the wax has soaked in, polish could be applied to good effect.
@ModernButlers I polished my skecher black leather shoes. First cleaned with mild soap, then rinsed off, applied Kiwi black leather polish, buffed, used cloth, applied coat of leather shining spray let them dry, after I applied a spray protectant. My problem is, the shoes are mostly midnight black color with dark brown lined designs criss crossing on parts of the shoe. I think I got the original Kiwi Black polish on brown part resulting in Frost White stain color. It's very white can i fix them?
Good question. Use a shoe cleaner that does not include any acid or detergent—saddle soap is good, as is Murphy's Oil soap. Use a damp cloth to apply the cleaner. Then wipe & allow to dry before wearing.
2. Wipe it off if you can, or allow to dry at room temperature and then brush off before polishing
3. Not sure what sole protection is being referred to here. Never polish that part of the sole that touches the ground. If it becomes wet, allow it to dry at room temperature. And expect to resole from time to time, because leather does wear down, pockmarks and scratches included
Thanks for the tutorial, but I have several questions.
1. When you say use polish cream and wax alternatively, how long is the time interval between the two? (I rarely wear my leather shoes, 2-3 times a month)
2. If I accidentally step on mud, what should I do?
3. I didn't install any shoe sole protection on the sole of my shoes, and now there are quite a lot of scratches, small holes on it. Is this normal? Any way to remove them? and is it better to install some protections?
how would i polish ostrich and crocodile shoes, because buffing the polish like that would slightly tear up the skin and stretch the bumps on ostrich?
@chaunceyvioli I would follow any directions and use the polish that should have been supplied at time of purchase of the shoes. You are correct, these materials require gentle handling
@clasanova Thank you. I would polish my shoes when they are not clean and shiny. No sense in cleaning or polishing something that is already clean or polished. Often, a quick swipe with a cloth will remove small amounts of dust that may have accumulated.
great stuff, I just bought some Loakes, Robinson's and one pair of Church's and plan to take really good care of them
how would you compare this method with the shine you get from a person operatng a shoe shine stand, in Toronto in the financial district we have several places to go to, just wondering
@JerryKitich To be honest, I am not familiar with the procedures and techniques used by shoe shine experts on the street and airports, etc., as I have always cleaned my own shoes. Now that you mention it, I'll study what they do.
@JerryKitich To follow up on our earlier correspondence, I had the opportunity to see a shoe shine chap at Puerto Rico airport the other day. He pretty well followed the standard procedure, but with a lot of flourish and unnecessary motion...all part of the show, I suppose.
@lem0n2lime Do you mean how much does a butler charge to perform a variety of functions? If so, one hires a butler at a salary that ranges form 40,000 a year to ten times that amount or more. If one wants to "rent-a-butler" for a day, the fees range from $400 to $1,000 and up. Does that answer your question?
Hello wonderful video keep up the great work. I need some advice I bought some Black Doc Martens. They are wonderful shoes and I love them very much. They are also of special significance to me as they are the first thing i bought with my first paycheck. I have bought all the polishes and such and since i live in a rainy area i bought a water proofing spray as well. Is there a special way to polish boots?? (they are 14 eyed i believe) or is the way your video showed to shine shoes good enough?
How many times a day must I polish my shoes? I am currently polishing them 4 times, is that enough? Sometimes 6 times a day, because of my "condition"... I enjoyed this video, you're cool! I wish you were my Butler, and I was very rich, however, life has dealt me a tough hand, and I'm trying to put enough together for a six pack. I must not drink while polishing my boots, it's a long story, it's just that I only have to learn that lesson once.
Thank you very much for this video! I can't wait to try your technique on my shoes and then see the look on my wifes face when we go out to dinner and she notices the shine
what about when they take the shoe at the end and like whip it i would say i don't know what i am trying to say but when they rub the cloth back and forth in the front of the shoe should we do that after we wipe the polish off?
Best to use neutral on multi-colored shoes. But if not, absolutely use a single brush or cloth for each color, and consider using a toothbrush at the edge of each color so no overlap. And use each color polish sparingly.
i have a pair of white, brown, and black shoes. If i use the brush on one, should it not be used for another color or will it dry where it won't harm the others?
@reactor32 Of course. Anything can be done in excess, with the expected results. In this case, principally wasted time, effort, materiel, and potentially, the early demise of the shoes.
You sir, are the personification of being proper. I was in great need of learning quick polishing technique, and I thank you for providing me with that opportunity.
@PurpleLolly11 If you post, it's up there for all to see, regardless of how long ago it was posted. So don't try to hide behind how long ago you said something if you get called out. You wanted to be heard but have nothing to say. How about you get over yourself.
Hmm..I have a habbit of washing my shoes with leather soap and oiling them afterwards. This way I don't have to polish them as often and then the leather has more protection against winter and spring conditions.
@314159john Thank you. 38 years now, and counting, I believe. Applying mink oil to leather soles might seem like a good idea, but it softens them and they soon wear through! So how come 38 years? Because the first cobbler I took them to for resoling switched to rubber soles. I did not ask for it, but did not argue when I compared the longevity of each material. For shoes I wear a lot, it made sense.
@lorenzoferlinghetti Indeed it does, the old spit-and-polish routine. Apply a second, light coat of polish, sprinkle water and buff with a soft cloth.
Do you have any tips for rejuvenating old shoe polish (the non-cream kind) when it has shrivelled (and dried out?) in the tin? In my case, the round 'block' of hardened shoe polish is almost unused. Seems a waste to throw it away.
@PerryNZ You could try these three ideas, on the basis that you can always chuck the polish if they do not work. 1) Heat the polish 2) More likely, add the solvent with which it is made, as that has obviously evaporated. 3) Try a cloth dampened with water. I have not tried any of these remedies, as I use my polish before it cracks. So, an educated guess, not hard-and-fast proven techniques.
@skip8619 Not personally, no. But it is used by some people to remove scuffs from patent leather, and to rejuvenate shoe leather that has become particularly dry.
@thapagaurab Thanks for the questions: I use mink oil to help rejuvenate leather which has become dry, but neatsfoot oil, lanolin or beeswax conditioners can also be used, as long as they are natural and soak into the leather, not synthetic, sitting on top of it. Apply the oil sparingly and run a test on the bottom of the instep to ensure the conditioner does not darken the leather. I do not use waterproofing sprays on leather shoes. Regular polishing should provide all the waterproofing needed
@thapagaurab Sorry, did not see these questions: 1. I alternate cream and wax polishes to condition leather. If the leather has become saturated with water, I dry it gently in a warm room after stuffing them (i.e. shoes or boots) with newspapers. And then apply mink oil and let it soak in for a few days. 2. Using a wax polish on leather shoes waterproofs them adequately, so no, I have not used a waterproofing spray
@dodgerman16 Polish does not need to dry so much as soak into the leather. This is done as soon as you apply it with a couple of circular motions. I usually apply the polish to the first shoe, put it aside, apply the polish to the second shoe, and then the first is ready for shining/buffing.
@VNM92 Glad to assist. You probably need to polish your shoes as many times as your sargeant major tells you to. However, what I recommend is you only clean them when they look anything other than perfect. If they have been worn little, then they probably do not need a clean. Maybe they just need a quick buff to remove dust. I don't see a need to clean something that is already clean, as there are more productive things to put one's attention on.
It's a dialect issue, most Americans say "you" or "you can" in lieu of "one does" or " one can." It actually generates confusion even among Americans, as the listener can often wonder if the speaker is talking about them specifically, to a group, or making general statements.
@tongzilla You can substitute the word "person" for "one." It allows one to talk about an action without nailing it down to a specific person. Do you understand that? I do. I think he (readchomsky) does. See, there is so much one can do with the English language.There is so much you can do with it. That I can do with it. That he (readchomsky) can (and no doubt does). Maybe you can even include it in your vocabulary now, and confuse other people :-) and then clear it up for them. LOL
@berner You might want to make sure you understand what is involved by buying Butlers and Household Managers (Amazon.com) and then attend a school. It is not so easy to break into the profession, so a better bet is, as I did, to work in private service in any capacity, see if you like that lifestyle, and then do the training; moving your way up the ladder in the old style. However, it also depends on what other skills you have, which can give you a leg up.
I've searched for, and watched several, several videos on the subject of a perfect shoeshine for my daughter's upcoming wedding. In my opinion this is the best. Little things like rapidly flicking the wrist rather than using long brush strokes from the elbow. Very well done and I thank you, sir.
@mjeuuu Thanks for the enquiry. I cannot speak for the shoe maker's experience, but my shoes are 38 years old now and I think that speaks for itself. I use a conditioner if shoes or boots become saturated in the rain and need to be dried out. Otherwise, the cream and wax keep the leather in good shape.
@Andybaby I wonder if that is an indication of the quality of todays shoes, or just evidence of the importance of conditioning and polishing the leather.
@Andybaby They most likely have been resoled a few times (Goodyear welted soles help with this). That number doesn't surprise me at all. If you start off with quality materials and construction, you're halfway there. The next step is to take proper care of them. Again, those shoes could have only lasted so long if they were quality to begin with.
@3215121 One uses a soft cloth, the kind that is often supplied in hotels to buff shoes, to put on the polish (or an "on" brush). Then after polishing with a soft-bristle brush, one can and should provide a final buff with lambswool or chamois cloth (to ensure also that no last bits of polish rub off on the bottom of trousers (pants) or dresses.
@3215121 One uses a soft cloth, the kind that is often supplied in hotels to buff shoes, to put on the polish (or an "on" brush). Then after polishing with a soft-bristle brush, one can and should provide a final buff with lambswool or chamois cloth (to ensure also that no last bits of polish rub off on the bottom of trousers (pants) or dresses.
You got me on that one. I was using the table as a workbench, which is a standard action, in case anyone takes away from this post that one cannot place a shoe on a table while cleaning shoes. One would normally use a newspaper or similar to protect the table surface. In this case, I found it expedient to clean the table thoroughly after finishing the videoing.
with this kind of care, combined with a lack of stress upon the shoe, can we not assume these shoes will be dug up in 1 million years in near perfect condition?
We have two choices, flash freezing, which will result in a soggy shoe upon thawing that perhaps can be salvaged with proper drying and rejuvenating with mink oil. But the likelihood is that it will disintegrate under foot rather rapidly...a condition it would share with many modern shoes.
Alternatively, we can drop the shoes in the La Brea tar pits, with a note to someone to dig them up, chisel out the insides, and wear the rock shoes as a fashionable statement.
Well done, thank you for taking the time for this video. I was wondering though, I have black shoes that have white stitching on them, do you have any tips/comments so that I can keep the stitching visible?
Good question. We usually recommend you use a neutral polish to avoid blackening the stitching. However, over time, the leather will lose its color from scuffs and scratches. Next best is to use black polish with a cloth in small motions that easily avoid areas of stitching, so that the coloring is retained on the leather.
Excellent video! Is there any preference of polish/cream brand that you prefer (as you mention inferior synthetic ones in the sidebar which I didn't know about).
Thank you. We always use Meltonian for the cream polishes (good range of colors, too) and Kiwi for the wax polishes. No, we do not have shares in these companies, but we would like to see them continuing in business because enough people know the score.
I'm sure my comment is more of the same but thank you for taking the time to explain this. A truly excellent explanation of how to stay looking your sharpest!
You are welcome. I suppose it is too much to hope that the leather is also white? Usually, in order to avoid discoloring stitches, one is obliged to use neutral polish, but even then the white stitching will discolor over time just as the shoes themselves will lose their color, as one is not using the appropriate color polish. Sorry, I have no complete solution to offer except avoid such shoes in the future.
Mr. Butler. First let me thank you for posting this informative video. I've recently come into possession of a pair of leather shoes. They have wonderfully aesthetic, but otherwise quite bothersome, white stitches that run down the length of the shoe. Do you have any advice for polishing these finicky shoes?
It depends where you live. Usually the best source, if any exist in your country/area, are cobblers or better shoe stores. Otherwise, one generally has to put up with limited offerings.
As for web-based resources, try Googling "shoe cleaning supplies" and you will have plenty to choose from.
It depends on how much time you have and how small the areas of differing colors are. I usually recommend using a neutral polish, which does nothing to restore lost color. The thorough way to do it is use some system to mask one color while polishing with the other color using a small brush, such as a bristle/soft toothbrush, and then switch. But this becomes impractical when the colored areas are small or intricate
This appears to be much less dramatic and messy than my current method (liquefying the polish by setting fire to it prior to application as taught by some military guys years ago). I'm going to have to try this on my work boots.
Question: If the shoes in question are two-toned leather, what would you recommend for shining them up?
Thanks! I'd never polished shoes till today and I did it all thanks to your video. I'm sure I could have done a better job, but my shoes are now all black, not black with scuffed spots :)
leather sole shoes are only made for sitting behind a desk or inside a car. they are not practical, especially with rain. just walking a minute on a sidewalk and the sole already starts to scratch. And then there are the blisters when the shoes are new. I can't understand how some people wear them like they were born with them on. I know people who only take them off when its bedtime or in the shower.
Indeed, although it is now 37 years...the cracks on the inside inside ball of foot are starting to deepen a bit, but still 100% usable and used, and my most comfortable pair
Want an excellent shine?... Use a spray bottle and finely mist the shoes after a base coat has been applied and polished... the water droplets will really bring out a mirror shine.
In practice, after each day of wear, but it could be more often if one is engaged in dusty or dirty environments and needing to look sharp.If one has worn a pair in a clean environment, then a quick buff should sufffice. In other words, it is the shoes, not the clock, that determines when to polish.
nice british accent......
pbzkfdt11 1 week ago
thank you for posting this
revpgesq 3 weeks ago
Dear untouchblz, The answers to your more recent questions are really contained within the prior answers.Is there something that is not clear about those answers? There seems to be some question or confusion or basic idea which is preventing you from seeing clearly the answer already given, so perhaps we can unearth it and find the answer you seek.
ModernButlers 1 month ago
Hello, thank you for the video. I just purchased a couple of tins of beeswax in order to waterproof my leather shoes. I have several shoes that I have yet to wear. How should I apply the beeswax in order to waterproof the stitching and the leather? Will the beeswax affect the shine/wax? How should I apply the beeswax to my older shoes that have wax/shine already on them from previous cleaning and shining?
untouchblz 1 month ago
@untouchblz Thanks for your questions. Remove dust/dirt from your shoes with a stiffer brush, or mild soap and water and then dry. Rub a dollop of beeswax into the leather with your fingers using a circular motion that rubs the wax in deeply. Let it sit while you do the other shoe/boot. Then buff with a soft cloth and let sit for a few hours before wearing, so the leather can absorb the wax. No need to be concerned about past polishes/waxes. Beeswax will remove stains.
ModernButlers 1 month ago
@ModernButlers Thank you for the reply! Does beeswax replace traditional shoe polish? If I want to apply polish can I do it right after the beeswax rests/absorbs?
untouchblz 1 month ago
@untouchblz Beeswax has no color, so shoe polishes are needed to maintain the color on the leather. As long as the wax has soaked in, polish could be applied to good effect.
ModernButlers 1 month ago
@ModernButlers I polished my skecher black leather shoes. First cleaned with mild soap, then rinsed off, applied Kiwi black leather polish, buffed, used cloth, applied coat of leather shining spray let them dry, after I applied a spray protectant. My problem is, the shoes are mostly midnight black color with dark brown lined designs criss crossing on parts of the shoe. I think I got the original Kiwi Black polish on brown part resulting in Frost White stain color. It's very white can i fix them?
rjksoccer06 1 month ago
Good question. Use a shoe cleaner that does not include any acid or detergent—saddle soap is good, as is Murphy's Oil soap. Use a damp cloth to apply the cleaner. Then wipe & allow to dry before wearing.
ModernButlers 3 months ago 2
Was wondering if you know of any way to deal with polish build up?
ncguy28348 3 months ago
Hey, love the video. Used the chamois technique on my Allen and edmonds, and the shine was outstanding. Thanks again
ncguy28348 3 months ago
Thanks a bunch.
Toxic63 3 months ago
1. Time frame between polishings not an issue.
2. Wipe it off if you can, or allow to dry at room temperature and then brush off before polishing
3. Not sure what sole protection is being referred to here. Never polish that part of the sole that touches the ground. If it becomes wet, allow it to dry at room temperature. And expect to resole from time to time, because leather does wear down, pockmarks and scratches included
ModernButlers 3 months ago
Thanks for the tutorial, but I have several questions.
1. When you say use polish cream and wax alternatively, how long is the time interval between the two? (I rarely wear my leather shoes, 2-3 times a month)
2. If I accidentally step on mud, what should I do?
3. I didn't install any shoe sole protection on the sole of my shoes, and now there are quite a lot of scratches, small holes on it. Is this normal? Any way to remove them? and is it better to install some protections?
Thanks a lot sir.
rtj182 3 months ago
"ONE" count of 23
Williambramble 4 months ago
Where was this filmed?
HAMILTON994 4 months ago
@HAMILTON994 On the veranda of one of the suites at the One & Only Ocean Club in Nassau, Bahamas.
ModernButlers 4 months ago
36 Years! My word.
thedonraja 4 months ago
Well done, and educational. I've been polishing my shoes for 25+ years and have never used a chamois, only a cotton rag. Thanks much for the tip.
bryanjamesl 4 months ago
THIRTY SIX YEARS! DAMN!
lwrncc 5 months ago
how would i polish ostrich and crocodile shoes, because buffing the polish like that would slightly tear up the skin and stretch the bumps on ostrich?
chaunceyvioli 5 months ago
@chaunceyvioli I would follow any directions and use the polish that should have been supplied at time of purchase of the shoes. You are correct, these materials require gentle handling
ModernButlers 4 months ago
9 people don't find polishing therapeutic or pleasurable
u12h8me 6 months ago
Thanks for the information. I had no idea there was such a thing as The
International Institute of Modern Butlers.
coffeebean3000 7 months ago
If you want to get them real shiny use a plastic wrap for polishing after using the brush.
A little trick I picked up when I was in the army but it works for business shoes as good as for boots.
patiencebear 8 months ago
How often should I polish my shoes? Before each I wear them? Even if I wear them on a daily basis? Can I polish my shoes too often? Great video btw
clasanova 8 months ago
@clasanova Thank you. I would polish my shoes when they are not clean and shiny. No sense in cleaning or polishing something that is already clean or polished. Often, a quick swipe with a cloth will remove small amounts of dust that may have accumulated.
ModernButlers 8 months ago
I also have a shoe maker putting a thin topy on the sole of each, it apparently helps with waterproofing and may make them easier to clean
JerryKitich 8 months ago
great stuff, I just bought some Loakes, Robinson's and one pair of Church's and plan to take really good care of them
how would you compare this method with the shine you get from a person operatng a shoe shine stand, in Toronto in the financial district we have several places to go to, just wondering
JerryKitich 8 months ago
@JerryKitich To be honest, I am not familiar with the procedures and techniques used by shoe shine experts on the street and airports, etc., as I have always cleaned my own shoes. Now that you mention it, I'll study what they do.
ModernButlers 8 months ago
@JerryKitich To follow up on our earlier correspondence, I had the opportunity to see a shoe shine chap at Puerto Rico airport the other day. He pretty well followed the standard procedure, but with a lot of flourish and unnecessary motion...all part of the show, I suppose.
ModernButlers 6 months ago
@ModernButlers Great thanks for checking and thanks again for the informative video.
JerryKitich 6 months ago
How much are the charges of the Modern Butler?
lem0n2lime 9 months ago
@lem0n2lime If you'd care to be a bit more specific, I'd be happy to answer your question(s).
ModernButlers 8 months ago
@ModernButlers What I meant was how much must I pay for a Butler Service?
lem0n2lime 8 months ago
@lem0n2lime Do you mean how much does a butler charge to perform a variety of functions? If so, one hires a butler at a salary that ranges form 40,000 a year to ten times that amount or more. If one wants to "rent-a-butler" for a day, the fees range from $400 to $1,000 and up. Does that answer your question?
ModernButlers 8 months ago
@ModernButlers Good Lord! That's a lot to pay for. I guess you are making a good living.
lem0n2lime 8 months ago
Great Video! I just bought a pair of doc martens and i was wondering does the method as described above work on boots as well?
dugusomun 9 months ago
@dugusomun Hello. The same method applies to all leather shoes. Patent leather being different, as with more exotic materials such as alligator skin.
ModernButlers 9 months ago
Hello wonderful video keep up the great work. I need some advice I bought some Black Doc Martens. They are wonderful shoes and I love them very much. They are also of special significance to me as they are the first thing i bought with my first paycheck. I have bought all the polishes and such and since i live in a rainy area i bought a water proofing spray as well. Is there a special way to polish boots?? (they are 14 eyed i believe) or is the way your video showed to shine shoes good enough?
dugusomun 9 months ago
@dugusomun Sorry I did not answer the question soon enough and you had to repeat it. The answer is the same.
ModernButlers 9 months ago
Your sense is spot on! It was shot at Paradise Island, Nassau, Bahamas.
ModernButlers 9 months ago
Im not sure if this has been asked but where was this video taken? It looks like paradise to me
g3n3tics 10 months ago
Dat 'stache..
XxCRIMSONGHOSTxX 10 months ago
30+ years WoW still great video
BenShotZz 10 months ago
Great information. Thank you for providing it!
lungstruck 10 months ago
Very nice video. Thank you very much sir.
ebrown87 10 months ago
How many times a day must I polish my shoes? I am currently polishing them 4 times, is that enough? Sometimes 6 times a day, because of my "condition"... I enjoyed this video, you're cool! I wish you were my Butler, and I was very rich, however, life has dealt me a tough hand, and I'm trying to put enough together for a six pack. I must not drink while polishing my boots, it's a long story, it's just that I only have to learn that lesson once.
Bullsight2020 10 months ago
Thank you very much for this video! I can't wait to try your technique on my shoes and then see the look on my wifes face when we go out to dinner and she notices the shine
mmpapabear5150 10 months ago
what about when they take the shoe at the end and like whip it i would say i don't know what i am trying to say but when they rub the cloth back and forth in the front of the shoe should we do that after we wipe the polish off?
virginiatechfanx 10 months ago
@virginiatechfanx You can buff it extra if you want
ModernButlers 10 months ago
Best to use neutral on multi-colored shoes. But if not, absolutely use a single brush or cloth for each color, and consider using a toothbrush at the edge of each color so no overlap. And use each color polish sparingly.
ModernButlers 10 months ago
i have a pair of white, brown, and black shoes. If i use the brush on one, should it not be used for another color or will it dry where it won't harm the others?
istoleyourpie 10 months ago
great video very very helpful!
1150mega 10 months ago
Is there such thing as over polishing?
reactor32 11 months ago
@reactor32 Of course. Anything can be done in excess, with the expected results. In this case, principally wasted time, effort, materiel, and potentially, the early demise of the shoes.
ModernButlers 11 months ago
You sir, are the personification of being proper. I was in great need of learning quick polishing technique, and I thank you for providing me with that opportunity.
DanielWydner 11 months ago
Comment removed
PurpleLolly11 11 months ago
@PurpleLolly11 according to who and based on what specifics?
ModernButlers 10 months ago 8
Comment removed
PurpleLolly11 10 months ago
@PurpleLolly11 If you're going to voice your opinion, at least back it up with something. By your own admission, your opinion has no basis.
baekken 8 months ago
Comment removed
PurpleLolly11 8 months ago
@PurpleLolly11 If you post, it's up there for all to see, regardless of how long ago it was posted. So don't try to hide behind how long ago you said something if you get called out. You wanted to be heard but have nothing to say. How about you get over yourself.
baekken 8 months ago
Hello, How many times should one polish shoes? Everyday, weekly, monthly?
PianoKwanMan 1 year ago
@PianoKwanMan As often as needed to maintain a shine without scuff marks
ModernButlers 1 year ago 4
@ModernButlers
Thank you for such a prompt reply
PianoKwanMan 1 year ago
Hmm..I have a habbit of washing my shoes with leather soap and oiling them afterwards. This way I don't have to polish them as often and then the leather has more protection against winter and spring conditions.
tuulenkukkasia 1 year ago
@tuulenkukkasia Doesn't using leather soap remove the polish from the shoe?
missdarque 1 year ago
@tuulenkukkasia Which brand of leather soap? Kiwi? saddle soap?
FerchoNeutron 1 year ago
I wanna be a butler now...
8BitAwesome 1 year ago
36 years: brilliant!!
Assume you have leather soles? If so, do you do anything to condition them? eg, apply mink oil?
314159john 1 year ago
@314159john Thank you. 38 years now, and counting, I believe. Applying mink oil to leather soles might seem like a good idea, but it softens them and they soon wear through! So how come 38 years? Because the first cobbler I took them to for resoling switched to rubber soles. I did not ask for it, but did not argue when I compared the longevity of each material. For shoes I wear a lot, it made sense.
ModernButlers 1 year ago
Doesn't sprinkling with water (once the polish is sufficiently dry) give the shoes a much brighter shine?
lorenzoferlinghetti 1 year ago
@lorenzoferlinghetti Indeed it does, the old spit-and-polish routine. Apply a second, light coat of polish, sprinkle water and buff with a soft cloth.
ModernButlers 1 year ago
Do you have any tips for rejuvenating old shoe polish (the non-cream kind) when it has shrivelled (and dried out?) in the tin? In my case, the round 'block' of hardened shoe polish is almost unused. Seems a waste to throw it away.
PerryNZ 1 year ago
@PerryNZ You could try these three ideas, on the basis that you can always chuck the polish if they do not work. 1) Heat the polish 2) More likely, add the solvent with which it is made, as that has obviously evaporated. 3) Try a cloth dampened with water. I have not tried any of these remedies, as I use my polish before it cracks. So, an educated guess, not hard-and-fast proven techniques.
ModernButlers 1 year ago
Have you had any experience with using mineral oil on shoes? Thanks
skip8619 1 year ago
@skip8619 Not personally, no. But it is used by some people to remove scuffs from patent leather, and to rejuvenate shoe leather that has become particularly dry.
ModernButlers 1 year ago
Very nice video. Thanks a lot. A couple of questions.
1. What do you use to condition leather and how do you do it?
2. Have you used waterproofing sprays to waterproof shoes? If you have, do you need to keep on using wax polish on them?
thapagaurab 1 year ago
@thapagaurab Thanks for the questions: I use mink oil to help rejuvenate leather which has become dry, but neatsfoot oil, lanolin or beeswax conditioners can also be used, as long as they are natural and soak into the leather, not synthetic, sitting on top of it. Apply the oil sparingly and run a test on the bottom of the instep to ensure the conditioner does not darken the leather. I do not use waterproofing sprays on leather shoes. Regular polishing should provide all the waterproofing needed
ModernButlers 1 year ago
Very nice video. Thanks a lot. A couple of questions.
1. What do you use to condition leather and how do you do it?
2. Have you used waterproofing sprays to waterproof shoes? If you have, do you need to keep on using wax polish on them?
thapagaurab 1 year ago
@thapagaurab Sorry, did not see these questions: 1. I alternate cream and wax polishes to condition leather. If the leather has become saturated with water, I dry it gently in a warm room after stuffing them (i.e. shoes or boots) with newspapers. And then apply mink oil and let it soak in for a few days. 2. Using a wax polish on leather shoes waterproofs them adequately, so no, I have not used a waterproofing spray
ModernButlers 10 months ago
How long will it take for it to dry?
dodgerman16 1 year ago
@dodgerman16 Polish does not need to dry so much as soak into the leather. This is done as soon as you apply it with a couple of circular motions. I usually apply the polish to the first shoe, put it aside, apply the polish to the second shoe, and then the first is ready for shining/buffing.
ModernButlers 1 year ago
Thank you sir, this helped me alot! I'm a new cadet in AFJROTC, and we need to keep our uniform clean!
P.S: How often should I polish my shoes?
VNM92 1 year ago
@VNM92 Glad to assist. You probably need to polish your shoes as many times as your sargeant major tells you to. However, what I recommend is you only clean them when they look anything other than perfect. If they have been worn little, then they probably do not need a clean. Maybe they just need a quick buff to remove dust. I don't see a need to clean something that is already clean, as there are more productive things to put one's attention on.
ModernButlers 1 year ago
Hit the toe, hit the sides and hit the heel. You're a well-mannered Hit Man!
lem0n2lime 1 year ago
You remind me of my English teacher. That guy was so Victorian.
pliskin100 1 year ago
your shoes are shiny.
forthelulz87 1 year ago
He shined the bottoms. A man after my own heart.
customerjon 1 year ago
you are a gentleman and a scholar, great video chap!
aerosurferlv 1 year ago
How does on go about Obtaining a Butler that is Knowledgeable as yourself?
xavier3961 1 year ago
@xavier3961 You could contact us Xavier, we know quite a few. we need to know the duties and remuneration package.
ModernButlers 1 year ago
you can contact us at infoatmodernbutlersdotcom Respond to this video...
ModernButlers 1 year ago
@ModernButlers Thank you, I will be contacting you in the very near Future.
xavier3961 1 year ago
i can not here your voice ok please repeat this video ok
Bappy525 1 year ago
@Bappy525 Sorry bappy.I am not planning to reshoot. Have you tried to turn up the volume to full, or use earphones?
ModernButlers 1 year ago
thank you sir well done
Jackcc5 1 year ago
lol, he says "one does..." or "one can...", etc. in almost every sentence.
tongzilla 1 year ago
@tongzilla
It's a dialect issue, most Americans say "you" or "you can" in lieu of "one does" or " one can." It actually generates confusion even among Americans, as the listener can often wonder if the speaker is talking about them specifically, to a group, or making general statements.
readchomsky 1 year ago
@tongzilla You can substitute the word "person" for "one." It allows one to talk about an action without nailing it down to a specific person. Do you understand that? I do. I think he (readchomsky) does. See, there is so much one can do with the English language.There is so much you can do with it. That I can do with it. That he (readchomsky) can (and no doubt does). Maybe you can even include it in your vocabulary now, and confuse other people :-) and then clear it up for them. LOL
ModernButlers 1 year ago
@tongzilla you must be uneducated
geneisms 1 year ago
How does one become a butler?
berner 1 year ago
@berner You might want to make sure you understand what is involved by buying Butlers and Household Managers (Amazon.com) and then attend a school. It is not so easy to break into the profession, so a better bet is, as I did, to work in private service in any capacity, see if you like that lifestyle, and then do the training; moving your way up the ladder in the old style. However, it also depends on what other skills you have, which can give you a leg up.
ModernButlers 1 year ago
I've searched for, and watched several, several videos on the subject of a perfect shoeshine for my daughter's upcoming wedding. In my opinion this is the best. Little things like rapidly flicking the wrist rather than using long brush strokes from the elbow. Very well done and I thank you, sir.
caffeinejo 1 year ago
very good video. relaxing to watch thank you :)
MrHappyshadow 1 year ago
@mjeuuu Thanks for the enquiry. I cannot speak for the shoe maker's experience, but my shoes are 38 years old now and I think that speaks for itself. I use a conditioner if shoes or boots become saturated in the rain and need to be dried out. Otherwise, the cream and wax keep the leather in good shape.
ModernButlers 1 year ago
36 years?!?!?!
Andybaby 1 year ago
@Andybaby I wonder if that is an indication of the quality of todays shoes, or just evidence of the importance of conditioning and polishing the leather.
shaftahoy 1 year ago
@shaftahoy
yes.. don't shows eventually they get scuffed and scratched and fall apart? Or can they always be repaired?
Andybaby 1 year ago
@Andybaby They most likely have been resoled a few times (Goodyear welted soles help with this). That number doesn't surprise me at all. If you start off with quality materials and construction, you're halfway there. The next step is to take proper care of them. Again, those shoes could have only lasted so long if they were quality to begin with.
HankLafayette 1 year ago
On the subject of polishing ones shoes, i can recommend proprietory carpet cleaner (in a trigger spray pack) for cleaning ones trainers.
bluebus270 1 year ago
It would be beneficial for one to view this video....
ChrisTripp 1 year ago
Do you have shoe polish for polish shoes
Serdikhan 1 year ago
@Serdikhan I am afraid not, but there are plenty of places online from which polish can be ordered.
ModernButlers 1 year ago
You're extreme politeness was very refreshing!
TheLostSuperman 1 year ago
Your mustache is epic!
HitaroX 1 year ago 27
can i use any type of cloth or do i need a special type of cloth?
3215121 1 year ago
@3215121 One uses a soft cloth, the kind that is often supplied in hotels to buff shoes, to put on the polish (or an "on" brush). Then after polishing with a soft-bristle brush, one can and should provide a final buff with lambswool or chamois cloth (to ensure also that no last bits of polish rub off on the bottom of trousers (pants) or dresses.
ModernButlers 1 year ago
@3215121 One uses a soft cloth, the kind that is often supplied in hotels to buff shoes, to put on the polish (or an "on" brush). Then after polishing with a soft-bristle brush, one can and should provide a final buff with lambswool or chamois cloth (to ensure also that no last bits of polish rub off on the bottom of trousers (pants) or dresses.
ModernButlers 1 year ago
You got me on that one. I was using the table as a workbench, which is a standard action, in case anyone takes away from this post that one cannot place a shoe on a table while cleaning shoes. One would normally use a newspaper or similar to protect the table surface. In this case, I found it expedient to clean the table thoroughly after finishing the videoing.
ModernButlers 1 year ago
Most educational, but points are seriously lost due to the fact the gentleman places a shoe upon a table.
wieyabuggaman 1 year ago
You are a scholar and a gentleman. Thank you, Sir.
voltageclamp2001 1 year ago
with this kind of care, combined with a lack of stress upon the shoe, can we not assume these shoes will be dug up in 1 million years in near perfect condition?
aegisgfx 1 year ago
We have two choices, flash freezing, which will result in a soggy shoe upon thawing that perhaps can be salvaged with proper drying and rejuvenating with mink oil. But the likelihood is that it will disintegrate under foot rather rapidly...a condition it would share with many modern shoes.
Alternatively, we can drop the shoes in the La Brea tar pits, with a note to someone to dig them up, chisel out the insides, and wear the rock shoes as a fashionable statement.
Which do you prefer?
ModernButlers 1 year ago
This is one classy guy
andrew12361 1 year ago
should wipe off first with a moist paper towel or something
matelotgeek 1 year ago
@matelotgeek One uses a brush to take off caked mud and dust. A paper towel would generally disintegrate on non-smooth surfaces or over caked mud.
ModernButlers 1 year ago
It's a fine art....shoe polishing :)) thanks for the video
strainuldinvalearegi 1 year ago
good show!
MAKootage 1 year ago
Thank you, modern butlers.
It's great to find a great video like this from such a cool person who knows what he is doing.
ferraristallion08 1 year ago
Well done, thank you for taking the time for this video. I was wondering though, I have black shoes that have white stitching on them, do you have any tips/comments so that I can keep the stitching visible?
superpaqman 1 year ago 2
Good question. We usually recommend you use a neutral polish to avoid blackening the stitching. However, over time, the leather will lose its color from scuffs and scratches. Next best is to use black polish with a cloth in small motions that easily avoid areas of stitching, so that the coloring is retained on the leather.
ModernButlers 1 year ago
Excellent video! Is there any preference of polish/cream brand that you prefer (as you mention inferior synthetic ones in the sidebar which I didn't know about).
Many thanks ModernButlers
i10Blog 1 year ago
Thank you. We always use Meltonian for the cream polishes (good range of colors, too) and Kiwi for the wax polishes. No, we do not have shares in these companies, but we would like to see them continuing in business because enough people know the score.
ModernButlers 1 year ago
Very nice, and attractive background. But the lighting and the audio could be better.
carolinajessamine 2 years ago
You are quite right. Sorry. Home made job.
ModernButlers 1 year ago
First class and frank presentation. Five stars.
LEOPARDTWO 2 years ago
I'm sure my comment is more of the same but thank you for taking the time to explain this. A truly excellent explanation of how to stay looking your sharpest!
mattarrr 2 years ago
such a simple way of explaining it....its just superb! thank u sir!
ponnu1984 2 years ago
Well spoken Mr Butler you are most proper :D
antsrealm 2 years ago
wow thanks very much! i love the guys tache aswell. wish i could have one like that!
xthewallhitmex 2 years ago
It's all in the fertilizer...
ModernButlers 1 year ago
36 years?!
swiftprov 2 years ago
An appropriately efficient video for a very efficient technique. Wonderfully explained. Thank you very much.
Xaintrix 2 years ago
To all of you who have written kind comments, we appreciate the feedback :-)
ModernButlers 2 years ago
This has been flagged as spam show
you are stupid! stop copying videos from voyspace
parkerum 2 years ago
Very useful, thank you!
TheJapanChannelDcom 2 years ago
Oh thanks :) Now i Can polish my own shoes without my mom doing it for me :D
fusionbernard 2 years ago
very helpful. thank you
marcr61 2 years ago 2
I have this video favorited, and watch it everytime I polish my shoes (once a month). Best polishing video on Youtube.
bigndpants 2 years ago 3
Best polishing video I've ever seen.
HelloMarco 2 years ago 17
You are welcome. I suppose it is too much to hope that the leather is also white? Usually, in order to avoid discoloring stitches, one is obliged to use neutral polish, but even then the white stitching will discolor over time just as the shoes themselves will lose their color, as one is not using the appropriate color polish. Sorry, I have no complete solution to offer except avoid such shoes in the future.
ModernButlers 2 years ago
Mr. Butler. First let me thank you for posting this informative video. I've recently come into possession of a pair of leather shoes. They have wonderfully aesthetic, but otherwise quite bothersome, white stitches that run down the length of the shoe. Do you have any advice for polishing these finicky shoes?
lordrawlings 2 years ago
It depends where you live. Usually the best source, if any exist in your country/area, are cobblers or better shoe stores. Otherwise, one generally has to put up with limited offerings.
As for web-based resources, try Googling "shoe cleaning supplies" and you will have plenty to choose from.
ModernButlers 2 years ago
Great Video!
Are there any websites or stores that you recommend to get the supplies seen in the video?
happyhopper 2 years ago
It depends on how much time you have and how small the areas of differing colors are. I usually recommend using a neutral polish, which does nothing to restore lost color. The thorough way to do it is use some system to mask one color while polishing with the other color using a small brush, such as a bristle/soft toothbrush, and then switch. But this becomes impractical when the colored areas are small or intricate
ModernButlers 2 years ago
This appears to be much less dramatic and messy than my current method (liquefying the polish by setting fire to it prior to application as taught by some military guys years ago). I'm going to have to try this on my work boots.
Question: If the shoes in question are two-toned leather, what would you recommend for shining them up?
solo76 2 years ago
Great vid but I had to laugh at "one's shoe"!!
Conorooney 2 years ago
Excellent!
ModernButlers 2 years ago
Thanks! I'd never polished shoes till today and I did it all thanks to your video. I'm sure I could have done a better job, but my shoes are now all black, not black with scuffed spots :)
ianloic 2 years ago
This has been flagged as spam show
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jeamsanna 2 years ago
leather sole shoes are only made for sitting behind a desk or inside a car. they are not practical, especially with rain. just walking a minute on a sidewalk and the sole already starts to scratch. And then there are the blisters when the shoes are new. I can't understand how some people wear them like they were born with them on. I know people who only take them off when its bedtime or in the shower.
antiiraqwar 2 years ago
Indeed, although it is now 37 years...the cracks on the inside inside ball of foot are starting to deepen a bit, but still 100% usable and used, and my most comfortable pair
ModernButlers 2 years ago
36 years? did i hear it correctly?
heisen715 2 years ago
Want an excellent shine?... Use a spray bottle and finely mist the shoes after a base coat has been applied and polished... the water droplets will really bring out a mirror shine.
rednoseroxy 2 years ago
Interesting. I take it this is a light buffing motion, or I'd think the nylon would rub off the polish?
ModernButlers 2 years ago
Very informative, thank you. Iv used an old pair of lady's tights wrapped in a ball to shine shoes after polishing. Results are very good.
markirish37 2 years ago 2
Great video, thank you so much.
One question: how often should a pair be polished?
Daminov 2 years ago 2
In practice, after each day of wear, but it could be more often if one is engaged in dusty or dirty environments and needing to look sharp.If one has worn a pair in a clean environment, then a quick buff should sufffice. In other words, it is the shoes, not the clock, that determines when to polish.
ModernButlers 2 years ago
Thanks for the video.
bigndpants 2 years ago 2
I use Meltonian
ModernButlers 2 years ago
What brand of cream polish would you recommend?
DukeDukeDuke 2 years ago
Very good & simply explained video. Thank you.
Jpaq0308 2 years ago 3
Excellent, many thanks for this video.Very informative.
007vauxhall 2 years ago 2
Great instructional. Thanks!
CMalone007 2 years ago
Well, thank you very much for the reassurance.
ModernButlers 2 years ago
Oh and yes this is on a black pair of shoes!
Philo68 2 years ago