<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" ?>
<feed xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom">
    <link href="https://www.collonil.com/en/magazine/shoes-more/?sAtom=1" rel="self" type="application/atom+xml" />
    <author>
        <name>Collonil EN</name>
    </author>
    <title>Blog / Atom feed</title>
    <id>https://www.collonil.com/en/magazine/shoes-more/?sRss=1</id>
    <updated>2026-05-14T08:25:56+02:00</updated>
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">Care Tips for Coloured Shoes</title>
            <id>https://www.collonil.com/en/magazine/shoes-more/care-tips-for-coloured-shoes</id>
            <link href="https://www.collonil.com/en/magazine/shoes-more/care-tips-for-coloured-shoes"/>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                
                                            Whether you’re dealing with colourful sneakers, men’s dress shoes with a colour gradient or colour-accented women’s shoes, you can’t ignore colour care if you want your shoes to last. 
                                        ]]>
            </summary>
            <content type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                 Coloured shoes quickly lose their lustre without proper care. It’s especially frustrating if you’re dealing with an expensive pair. But note: It’s not necessary for coloured shoes to fade. Caring for colourful shoes isn’t complicated. Below, you’ll find answers to some of the most important questions around the topic. 
 How do I find the correct colour of shoe cream for my coloured leather shoes? 
 It can be difficult to perfectly match the tone of a shoe cream or polish to your shoes. This is even true for classic colours such as brown. There is no need to fret if you can’t find a 100% match, however. Simply chose a tone that is one shade lighter than the colour of your shoe. 
 The lighter shoe polish won’t lighten the tone of your shoes; the pigmentation in the cream isn’t strong enough for that. However, a darker tone will eventually darken the leather over time. 
 The same principle applies to shoe wax. 
 How do I take care of shoes with a colour gradient? 
 Some shoe enthusiasts purposefully use darker shoe creams to create an antique finish. Using a range of different colour tones, they can imitate the look of high-quality, aged leather shoes. 
 To do this, begin by giving the shoe a thorough wash with  CLEAN + CARE . Then, apply a lightly-toned cream that matches the leather to the whole of your shoe. Next, apply a cream or polish with a slightly darker tone to select places (the toe, for example). 
 Seeing as you already coated the entire shoe with the lighter cream, the leather on the toe or other parts won’t absorb as much of the darker pigment. Thus, the darker tone leaves a subtler trace. The final step is to apply a bit of black polish to any parts of the shoe you desire a particularly strong gradient. Once you’ve polished your shoes with the  1909 FINE POLISHING BRUSH , you can touch-up the gradient with the two darker tones. 
 What should I do if I use the wrong coloured shoe polish? 
 Are you worried that you’ve ruined your smooth leather shoes by repeatedly using the wrong polish? Take a deep breath. Pigmentation caused by coloured creams is reversible. 
 You’ve probably learned this yourself whilst applying polish at some point. If a tone is too dark, you can simply wipe away any moist polish with a clean towel. If the cream has already dried, remove it with the  REINIGER  spray. 
 Intensive leather cleaning products such as  CLEANING CREME  also remove old shoe polish. After cleaning, apply the appropriate shoe cream and your shoe will be looking sharp once again. 
 How do I care for multi-coloured shoes? 
 Do your shoes feature various different colours or mixed materials? If so, proceed cautiously when it comes to colour care. Tape off or cover individual segments and apply one colour after the other to the respective parts. 
 If you’re dealing with a mix of materials, be sure to select the proper product for each material. Smooth leather, fabric and rougher leathers each require different colour care products. 
 How do I waterproof coloured shoes? 
 Waterproofing coloured shoes is highly recommended to prevent the colours from fading or getting damaged.  WATERSTOP CLASSIC  not only waterproofs leather shoes, but it also protects them from getting faded from exposure to UV rays. 
  NUBUK &amp;amp; VELOURS  spray is the optimal choice for protecting suede and nubuck shoes. Be sure to cover the surface beneath your shoes when applying the spray as it is a much less targeted application process when compared to a cream or polish. 
 How do I refresh colours? 
 If you’re looking to refresh the colour of your smooth leather shoes, you have a large product range to choose from. For fine leather shoes, look no further than  1909 CRÈME DE LUXE . The high-gloss cream in a jar nourishes your shoes with natural waxes and oils. 
 If you’re in a hurry, the  WATERSTOP COLOURS  line is a great option. With the convenient foam applicator, the polish is easily applied to smooth leather or other high-tech materials. An added bonus: This cream is also waterproof. 
 If your shoes are fairly worn with deep scratches and scuffs,  COLORIT  works to repair and replenish the colour. The repair cream also works on on non-dyed-through-leather&amp;nbsp;thanks to its high percentage of colour pigmentation. 
 Shoe aficionados with an extra colourful shoe collection can’t avoid the  SHOE CREAM  series. Featuring over 40 different colour tones, this series will certainly contain a polish suitable for your shoe. 
 Shoes made of suede, nubuck or fabric are well serviced by the  NUBUK &amp;amp; TEXTILE  product. 
 Whilst the  COLOUR FASHION  spray doesn’t impart a colour of its own, it gives a boost to the colours already present on your shoes. Plus, it protects mixed materials from dirt and moisture. 
 It would seem that taking care of your coloured shoes isn’t so complicated after all. There’s now nothing left standing between you and a colourful shoe collection finding its way into your closet. May you enjoy many years with your coloured shoes! 
                ]]>
            </content>

                            <updated>2018-05-29T00:00:00+02:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">Keep Running Shoes in Good Shape – Clean and Care</title>
            <id>https://www.collonil.com/en/magazine/shoes-more/keep-running-shoes-in-good-shape-clean-and-care</id>
            <link href="https://www.collonil.com/en/magazine/shoes-more/keep-running-shoes-in-good-shape-clean-and-care"/>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                
                                            Runners don’t really need much gear for their sport. A good pair of running shoes is usually enough and, of course, knowing how to clean and care for them inside and out.
                                        ]]>
            </summary>
            <content type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                 Most runners follow up a good run with a healthy meal, refreshing shower and rest. The most important gear – the running shoes – typically get abandoned in the hall. There are a few simple tricks that help keep running shoes both hygenic and in good shape, longer. 
 How to put running shoes on and take them off properly 
 When you’re racing, speed is king, but when you’re putting on your trainers, it’s better to take a little extra time. If you don’t loosen the laces, or if you depress the heel cap, you will damage the shoe over time. 
 Stepping on the back of your shoe to help your foot slip out also causes unnecessary damage to the material. It is a much better idea to loosen the laces and use a shoehorn. 
 Always let your shoes dry out 
 Many runners don’t realise that each foot can produce up to a cup of sweat per day when you’re working hard. Therefore, it’s important to give running shoes at least 24 hours rest to dry out between runs. Even casual runners, who only run short distances each week, would be wise to have a second pair of trainers. 
 Giving your shoes enough time to dry prevents bacteria and fungi from accumulating in your runners. It will also lengthen the life of your shoes. It is best to dry your running shoes in a well-ventilated room. Avoid intense heat sources such as radiators or direct sunlight. Too much heat can cause leather to become brittle and colours to fade. Other materials, such as textiles and synthetics, also benefit from slowly drying out. 
 To get the best results, loosen the laces, pull the tongue forward and remove the insoles, if possible, so they can dry separately. Crumpled newspaper is also brilliant for removing excess moisture from inside shoes. 
 Have a second pair 
 Wearing damp shoes doesn’t only make them smell poorly quicker, it can also be unhealthy for your feet. Bacteria present in damp shoes can cause skin irritation and infections. Thus, it’s a good idea to let your favourite pair of running shoes dry completely and reach for a back-up pair instead. 
 A rest period is also important for the shoe’s recovery after a run. The shoe takes a lot between the weight of the runner and the impact of the foot on the pavement, trail or track. Having a second pair of trainers is also good for the sport: Wearing different shoe models trains different muscles and helps ensure your foot doesn’t get too accustomed to one shoe. 
 Clean running shoes regularly 
 The best thing you can do to help keep your trainers clean is to waterproof them. This doesn’t only prevent rain from getting in, but also makes sure dirt and dust don’t find their way deep into the shoe materials. 
 Waterproof new running shoes two to three times before your first wear and refresh the coat after every five to eight uses – more often if the weather is poor. 
 To make sure mud doesn’t get too caked on, brush your shoes with a  CLEANING BRUSH  after running in the woods or during a rainstorm. We recommend the softer  CLEANING BRUSH  for sensitive materials such as mesh or textile. A dry cleaning with the  NUBUK BOX  usually suffices for smaller spots on suede or nubuck. The  SOFT GUM  is perfect for use with textiles or smooth leather. 
 Between dust, mud and sweat, you demand a lot of your trainers, which necessitates regular wet cleaning. Clean sole edges with a&amp;nbsp; CLEANING BRUSH  and  CLEANING SCREME  after use. 
  CLEAN &amp;amp; CARE  foam removes even the deepest dirt from all types of shoe uppers and simultaneously nourishes the materials. 
 Keep your shoe interior hygienic 
 Cleaning the inside of your shoe is especially important for sport shoes.  INSIDE FRESH &amp;amp; CLEAN  spray intensively cleans shoe interiors and provides a pleasant fresh feeling. Clean removable insoles separately. Brush them off in a wash basin using a mix of water and  SNEAKER WASH  and let them dry naturally. 
 Can you put running shoes in the washing machine? 
 Shoes with leather components should never be put in the washing machine. The leather will get warped and dry. You should likewise take caution with thermoplastic materials. Purely textile shoes can be cleaned using a washing machine so long as the manufacturer’s washing instructions don’t say otherwise.  SNEAKER WASH &amp;nbsp;is a washing detergent that is specially designed for washing trainers. Place your running shoes in a net bag and wash them at 30°C using the lowest spin cycle. 
 Proper care will lengthen the life of your running shoes 
 Many runners think they can just sit by and watch their shoes take the abuse caused by intense training, but there is a good reason why you should take care of your shoe uppers. 
 Repeated stress can cause materials, especially leather, to dry out over time. Textiles will eventually fade and become more sensitive.  BAMBOO LOTION  nourishes materials with natural extracts and provides them with the moisture they require. The lotion also provides a gentle clean between deeper cleans. 
 It’s not necessary to give your running shoes an intensive clean after each wear. Keep the exteriors clean by regularly brushing them, and avoid unpleasant odours inside with  BREEZE  shoe deodorant.&amp;nbsp; BREEZE  doesn’t just cover up odours, it neutralises odour-causing molecules. It is also great for freshening up training clothes and your gym bag between washes. 
 Taking care of your running shoes isn’t purely an aesthetic endeavour, clean shoes are more hygienic and have a longer life. Treat your shoes to the proper care, and they won’t leave you in the lurch on the track. 
                ]]>
            </content>

                            <updated>2018-04-30T00:00:00+02:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">Tidy Comfort: How to Clean Your Sofa</title>
            <id>https://www.collonil.com/en/magazine/shoes-more/tidy-comfort-how-to-clean-your-sofa</id>
            <link href="https://www.collonil.com/en/magazine/shoes-more/tidy-comfort-how-to-clean-your-sofa"/>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                
                                            Does your favourite cosy sofa have an unsightly stain? No need to panic: Here’s how to remove oil stains, marker stains and even cat urine.
                                        ]]>
            </summary>
            <content type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                 The sofa is home to many of life’s comforts. It may serve as a place to enjoy a glass of wine while watching a television programme or your child’s favourite spot to get creative. It’s also likely your pet’s most beloved place to relax (especially if the owners aren’t around). 
 But all of these activities can certainly leave their mark on upholstered furniture and no one enjoys having drink spills, cat urine or marker stains on the couch. 
 Juice Stains on the Sofa - What to do? 
 Regardless whether your sofa is made of leather or a fabric such as microfibre, you can remove stains quickly and easily with the proper products. If you’re dealing with surface-level stains, try using dry cleaning products in order to give your sofa a more gentle clean.  SOFT GUM  is great for erasing light stains from smooth leather surfaces.  CLEANER  is a more intensive dry cleaning product that even works on set stains on suede or full-grain leather. 
 Juice or grease stains left behind from your latest telly snack can be easily removed with  LEATHER &amp;amp; TEXTILE CLEANER . As the name suggests, it can be used on both leather and fabric sofas and is great for tackling water-soluble or light grease stains. 
 Apply the cleaner directly to your smooth leather couch. If you have a suede or fabric sofa, use a  CLEANING BRUSH  after application to brush away the dirt. Finally, wipe the area clean with a damp  POLISHING CLOTH  to remove any remaining cleaning product. 
 What about more serious oil stains? 
 If you have a more serious grease or oil stain, you’ll need a stronger cleaner such as Collonil’s  REINIGER  spray. It is suitable for use on all types of leather and is easy to apply. 
 To clean a smooth leather sofa, spray the&amp;nbsp; REINIGER  on a cloth and use it to gently rub the stain away. If you have a suede or fabric couch, apply the&amp;nbsp; REINIGER  directly to the stain and brush the damp material with a  CLEANING BRUSH . Remember: Less is more in this case. You only need to apply a thin layer. 
 Even if you handle your sofa with extreme caution, it may become discoloured over time. Oils from your skin and body lotion leave traces on both leather and fabric sofas. SOFT GUM is great for erasing any small flecks. For rough leather, use the  VELOURS-BOY , for fabrics, the CLEANING BRUSH.&amp;nbsp; The REINIGER spray is perfect for more sizeable marks. 
 Special Circumstances: Markers and Cat Urine on the Sofa 
 If your biro or marker just slipped from your hand, you can remove the fresh stain with  CLEANIG CREAM . If the mark has already had time to dry, your best bet may be denatured alcohol. Of course, you run the risk of removing the finish from your leather sofa so do proceed with caution. 
 Removing cat urine is a particular challenge for pet lovers. Cats can smell lingering scents longer than humans can and may take the opportunity to mark the same spot twice. 
 To remove the stain for good, clean it with  LEATHER &amp;amp; TEXTILE CLEANER . Afterwards, apply  BREEZE  odour neutraliser to slightly damp suede or fabric surfaces. This removes odour-causing bacteria and gets rid of other unpleasant odours such as cigarette smoke. However, the finish on smooth leather surfaces may be affected by&amp;nbsp; BREEZE  and thus it’s not recommended for use with this type of leather. 
 How to Care for Your Sofa 
 Once you’ve finished cleaning, your sofa will likely require some extra care. Similar to leather shoes, leather sofas can get dry and brittle if they aren’t taken care of.  LEATHER LOTION  offers optimal nourishment for smooth leather and also helps to refresh the tone of the leather. Regularly brushing suede sofas with a&amp;nbsp; VELOURS-BOY  will help maintain the texture. 
 Once it’s all fresh and clean, your sofa will once again be the inviting heart of your home and ready for anything: movie nights, children’s playtime and the pet’s nap time. 
                ]]>
            </content>

                            <updated>2018-01-18T00:00:00+01:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">8 Tips for Clean Shoe Soles and Seams</title>
            <id>https://www.collonil.com/en/magazine/shoes-more/8-tips-for-clean-shoe-soles-and-seams</id>
            <link href="https://www.collonil.com/en/magazine/shoes-more/8-tips-for-clean-shoe-soles-and-seams"/>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                
                                            They are the vital unsung heroes that give our shoes stability. However, we often ignore the soles and seams of our shoes when we clean them. The result? Leaky or broken shoes.
                                        ]]>
            </summary>
            <content type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                 When you buy a new pair of shoes, you usually look at the overall design and materials used for the upper. Even when you clean and polish your favourites, the shaft tends to get most of the attention. But it’s important that you don’t ignore the soles or stitching, because they are two big contributors to wearing comfort. 
 Binding Element: Stitching 
 Today, many shoe uppers and soles are simply glued together. However, in classic leather shoes, the individual parts of the shaft, as well as the upper and soles, are sewn together. Synthetic threads made of polyester and polyamide are predominantly used in this day and age. Shoes that are expected to withstand a bit rougher conditions, such as trekking boots or skater shoes, have reinforced seams at certain vulnerable points. 
 Caring for Stitched Shoes 
  Seam Tip #1: Special Cleaning Brushes  
 Although seams get cleaned and sprayed when you’re cleaning your shoe uppers, they also require a bit of individualised attention. Brushing stitching with the narrow side of the  CREPE BRUSH  will allow you to clean all the cracks and crevices. 
  Seam Tip #2: Targeted Waterproofing  
 It’s important to apply waterproof spray evenly from a distance of at least 30 cm, but that’s not quite enough for seams, which require more direct waterproofing.  LEATHER GEL  is more suitable for targeted application. It absorbs into the materials and nourishes the surrounding leather. 
  Seam Tip #3: Pay Attention to Differences in Colour  
 Do your shoes have light stitching against darker leather? If so, make sure you treat your seams with neutral polishes and waxes in order to preserve these highlighted accents. L LEATHER GEL  is well suited for light-coloured seams. 
  Seam Tip #4: Shoehorns Protect Seams  
 Properly putting on and taking off your shoes also helps to protect stitching. Don’t just slide your foot into your shoe, use a shoehorn. 
 The Many Layers of the Sole 
 Seams aren’t the only things that offer your feet stability, the soles also play a major role. Most people only think about the outsole, but soles are actually comprised of several layers that serve different purposes: 
 
 Cover sole: The lining that you see in the bottom of the shoe 
 Insole: The interior piece that connects the shaft and sole 
 Outsole: The exterior sole that keeps the shoe dry and protects your foot 
 
 Stay Neat with Fresh Insoles 
  Sole Tip #1: Clean Your Shoe Interiors  
 There isn’t any other part of a shoe that comes into contact with more sweat than the insole, and thus it should be cleaned regularly. The cover sole serves mostly aesthetic purposes and usually rests on top of the actual insole. Not only does this make shoes more comfortable, but it also ensures a balanced climate inside your shoes. If the material isn’t breathable, however, your shoe will get warm fast. The result? Hot, sweaty feet and unpleasant odours. 
  BREEZE  spray makes sure your shoes stay smelling fresh as it binds with odour-causing molecules. If you want to give the inside of your shoes a deeper clean,  INSIDE FRESH &amp;amp; CLEAN  is a suitable option. For additional levels of hygiene and comfort, you can try using replaceable insoles. 
 Keep Outsoles Looking Clean 
  Sole Tip #2: Clean Soles, Clean Shoes  
 Outsoles aren’t only worn down due to mechanical strain, but also from dirt and moisture. Stones and rocks embedded in outsoles aren’t only annoying to walk on, but they also damage the sole. You can remove these with a  CLEANING BRUSH  and then rinse the sole with water. 
 The part of the sole that you see from the side, the midsole, requires a bit of extra attention when cleaning. Use  CLEANING CREAM &amp;nbsp;to keep white soles and crepe soles looking bright.&amp;nbsp; 
 Flexible and Dry Leather Soles 
  Sole Tip #3: Clean Leather Soles that Don’t Slip  
 Leather soles are more robust that many people think. They hold their shape better and are easier to repair than rubber soles. In addition, they are more breathable and extremely comfortable. Plus, with the right treatment, they can remain sufficiently water resistant. 
 Many people use sole oils on leather soles. These help maintain elasticity, but don’t necessarily help with waterproofness. The disadvantage, of course, is that the oils often make soles more slippery and they can also soak into the upper leather. If that happens, it limits options for follow-up repairs as glued soles won’t stick anymore. 
  SOHLE TONIC  nourishes leather soles and prevents rubbing without making the material more slippery or more difficult to repair. It also waterproofs the soles and helps prevent moisture rings from forming on the upper. 
 Repairs – When are they necessary? 
  Sole Tip #4: Visit the Cobbler  
 Even well-cared-for soles get worn down every now and again and warrant replacing. Take your shoes to a trusted shoemaker if you start seeing clear signs of wear or worn down soles; at the very latest, if you can see the insole popping through. Once freshly soled, your shoes will remain comfortable, stylish companions for a good while longer. 
                ]]>
            </content>

                            <updated>2017-11-15T00:00:00+01:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">Make Your Leather Bag Shine</title>
            <id>https://www.collonil.com/en/magazine/shoes-more/make-your-leather-bag-shine</id>
            <link href="https://www.collonil.com/en/magazine/shoes-more/make-your-leather-bag-shine"/>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                
                                            Some see it as a status symbol, others as a practical everyday item, but few women leave the house without it: the handbag. However, without proper care, your purse will start to show signs of wear.
                                        ]]>
            </summary>
            <content type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                 Many women have a favourite handbag in their wardrobe. Depending on their style, it might be a high-quality leather bag from a top brand or a funky vintage handbag. However, regardless of how well protected you store a purse, it’s bound to be exposed to quite a lot out in the real world. We tend to cram them full to the brim, scrape them up again things and set them on the ground rain or shine. Yet somehow, handbags seem to withstand it all. Even so, they do require a little extra care every now and again, just like your favourite shoes. Try giving your favourite handbag a small wellness programme with proper care products and get it to shine like new. 
 Clean and Condition Your Purse 
 If your purse is only slightly dirty, try giving it a dry clean. Brush fabric bags with a  CLEANING BRUSH  and suede handbags with a  VELOURS-BOY  brush. Smooth leather is best cleaned with a soft cotton towel. The  SOFT GUM  cleaning rubber is perfect for gently cleaning smooth leather, fabric and microfibre bags. Light marks and spots on suede can be removed with the  CLEANER CLASSIC  dry cleaning rubber. 
 &amp;nbsp;If the dirt has had more time to set into the fabric, you may have to opt for a wet clean.  RUSTICAL CLASSIC  lotion is perfect for rustic-looking handbags with a wax coating.  BAMBOO LOTION  will get rid of any dust or dirt on smooth leather, suede and fabric purses. Make sure you brush the suede before and after cleaning with the&amp;nbsp; VELOURS-BOY  brush. That way, the fibres won’t stick together and the texture will stay intact. 
 We recommend using  1909 LEATHER CREAM  on smooth leather; it helps prevent cracking and keeps the fine material looking vibrant. The cream even helps repair light scratches. Another tip: Don’t use coloured polishes on your handbag. The close proximity between your purse and your clothes could cause the colour to rub off onto the fabric. 
 Shield Against Dirt 
 Last, but not least, your handbag will certainly appreciate being shielded from water. Next time you waterproof your shoes, spray your purse as well.  CARBON PRO  is suitable for use on all materials, including suede, smooth leather and textiles. Keep your favourite pieces protected from unplanned showers and all those other bumps and spots. 
                ]]>
            </content>

                            <updated>2017-11-02T00:00:00+01:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">Stay Safe with Proper Care - Cleaning Work Shoes</title>
            <id>https://www.collonil.com/en/magazine/shoes-more/stay-safe-with-proper-care-cleaning-work-shoes</id>
            <link href="https://www.collonil.com/en/magazine/shoes-more/stay-safe-with-proper-care-cleaning-work-shoes"/>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                
                                            Safety shoes are considered a tool of the trade and yet, they’re rarely taken care of. Regular cleaning doesn’t just prevent unpleasant odours from forming, it also offers improved protection.
                                        ]]>
            </summary>
            <content type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                  Whether you’re working in construction, restaurants or laboratories, work shoes are often a required part of the uniform. Some countries even have laws demanding employers provide their staff with suitable and well-maintained safety shoes. But it’s also in your own best interest to keep your work shoes clean and in tip-top shape.  
  4 Good Reasons to Clean Your Work Shoes  
  Clean and well-maintained work shoes offer you numerous benefits:  
 
  No unpleasant odours  
  Improved wearing comfort  
  Ensured safety  
  Longer shoe life  
 
  Work boots or shoes are often exposed to a wide range of stressors. If you don’t keep them in good shape, they will wear down faster, which also threatens their level of safety. Here are some easily tips that can help you keep them in proper shape.  
  Smelly Work Boots - What To Do?  
  Despite your best efforts to shower daily and always wear fresh socks, your shoes will still likely develop unpleasant odours over time. These occur when bacteria start breaking down the sweat left behind in shoes. Please don’t make any rash decisions like soaking your work boots in a strong disinfectant solution or tossing them into the washing machine! Both of these methods can seriously damage the shoe material. There are a limited number of shoe types that are truly machine washable and they will be clearly labelled by the manufacturer.  
  If sweaty odours have already taken hold in your safety shoes, try cleaning their interiors with  &amp;nbsp;INSIDE FRESH &amp;amp; CLEAN  . Repeat this treatment on a regular basis. To keep things even fresher, spray your shoes with &amp;nbsp; BREEZE &amp;nbsp; after every wear. This spray isn’t simply a shoe deodorant, it actually binds with the odour-causing molecules and prevents them from smelling.  
  Avoid Odours With Thorough Drying  
  One very easy and effective odour-fighting measure is properly airing out your work boots. Despite the fact that many shoes are made of breathable materials, moisture can easily start to gather inside frequently-worn work shoes. Freshly-removed work shoes do not belong in the wardrobe, nor do they belong next to powerful heat sources like radiators or direct sunlight. Ideally, you should air out your shoes for at least 24 hours in a warm and dry environment after each wear. The best way to do this is to have two pairs so you can alternate each day.  
  Loosen your laces after taking off your work boots and pull the tongue forward so the interior has a fair chance to dry out. Also, don’t forget to remove any insoles. Shoe trees, such as the&amp;gt; &amp;nbsp; FORMA  , are also useful for keeping shoes open and airy, which allows them to dry and helps maintain their shape.  
  Comfortable Work Shoes - Interior Care  
 The interiors of your work shoes don’t only appreciate a good cleaning, they also require regular upkeep. This is especially true if you wear leather work boots. Leather interiors can become rough and brittle from repeated exposure to moisture and dirt. The result: The leather rubs and eventually splits. Properly caring for your work shoes with products like  ORGANIC CREAM  helps nourish the smooth leather, which in turn offers a higher level of wearing comfort. 
  Unfortunately, replacing insoles for hygienic or comfort purposes is not always advisable for work boots. Many safety shoes shouldn’t be altered as this could impair their safety functions. Risk of injury could increase if your shoes have different levels of insulation/conductivity or if you alter the distance between your toes and the steel cap, for example.  
  How to Clean Leather and Fabric Work Shoes  
 Brush leather work shoes with a  CLEANING BRUSH  after each wear. Fabric shoes can be brushed with a  CLEANING BRUSH . If your shoes aren’t just dusty, but really dirty, you should really do a wet clean. 
  Some shoes are treated with a coloured outer coating. This layer may be more easily removed than other finishes and thus, you should proceed with caution when cleaning your shoes with moisture and coloured polishes. Apply any polish as thinly as possible and use very little pressure. It’s best to test new products on less visible parts of the shoe first.  
 Leather and fabric safety shoes can be cleaned with  CLEAN &amp;amp; CARE CLASSIC . Smooth leather, synthetic materials and rubber shoes are best treated with  LEATHER SOAP CLASSIC , which has lipid replenishing properties. This means that nourishing oils are returned to and rebalanced in the shoes materials. You can even clean the sole of your work shoes with this product. 
 Do you work in an environment where oil and grease is constantly landing on your shoes? Our  REINIGER  special cleaner was developed specifically with you in mind! 
  Maintaining Waterproof Work Shoes  
 To protect your shoes from moisture and dirt, you should treat them with  CARBON PRO  waterproofing spray before your first wear and after each wash. Afterwards, you can start looking at other care products. 
  When choosing shoe care products, it’s important to remember that some oils and creams will make leather shoes softer. This could cause safety shoes to lose some of their necessary stability. Wax-based products are an alternative in this case. (Please note: If your shoes have a special membrane like Gore-Tex, for example, you should avoid both oils and waxes because they will impair the material’s breathability.)  
 It’s important that shoes made of smooth leather, nubuk or suede are kept supple in order to protect them from tears or splits.  RUSTICAL CLASSIC  cream is well suited for use on this type of work shoe. 
  Regular Care = Safe Work Boots  
  You may think the biggest advantage of caring for your work shoes is that they stay looking presentable. However, it’s even more important that you immediately notice any signs of damage that could hinder your level of foot protection. Regular cleaning and care will help you do this.  
  When you clean the outside of your shoes, take the opportunity to also wash your laces. Check to see if there are any tears or worn spots and exchange them if necessary. Damaged laces can impede the safety functions of your shoes.  
  If you notice extreme signs of wear like the toe pulling away or stitching coming loose, it’s really time for a new pair. But until it comes to that, you can keep your work shoes clean, comfortable and safe with relatively little effort.  
                ]]>
            </content>

                            <updated>2017-09-08T00:00:00+02:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">Shoeshine Shop in Bangkok: The Dandy of Shoe Polishers</title>
            <id>https://www.collonil.com/en/magazine/shoes-more/shoeshine-shop-in-bangkok-the-dandy-of-shoe-polishers</id>
            <link href="https://www.collonil.com/en/magazine/shoes-more/shoeshine-shop-in-bangkok-the-dandy-of-shoe-polishers"/>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                
                                            Aon is a shoeshine specialist, shoe collector and an atypical character in Bangkok. Here he tells us why well-cared-for shoes are so important to him and why he is a fan of Collonil products.
                                        ]]>
            </summary>
            <content type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                 Aon stands out amongst the lines of food stands, market stalls with metre-high piles of clothes, and the concert of beeping tuk tuks and cars on the busy streets of Bangkok, population: eight million and counting. While his fellow Thais tend to opt for functional runners, simple t-shirts and jeans in the best case, and sequined Hello Kitty ears in the worst, Aon catches your eye with his classic elegance. 
  The shoeshine specialist’s style makes it obvious that he’s a bit different; he looks as though he’s from another era. Aon values quality and attention to detail over knock-off name brand clothes, bright cartoon prints or worn runners. His fervour for finery doesn’t stop with his selection of clothes, however, it runs deeper; he isn’t just scratching the surface. You can get a good sense of this when Aon speaks about his passion for shoes or when he gets started on the merits of traditional Thai cuisine. 
 Striving for the perfect shoeshine 
 Aon endeavours to form long-term relationships with the people and objects in his life. As he puts it himself, he would like to ‘do things properly’. Thus, the 27-year-old shoe fanatic spends much of his free time searching out rare treasures in vintage shops and flea markets that he later meticulously restores and cares for. His collection ranges from leather shoes and bags to cameras and typewriters. Next to his other projects and interests, including running his pipe club and his band in which he plays drums, Aon has taken it upon himself to polish the footwear of Thailand’s capital city to a high lustre. The modern dandy – as he calls himself – is Bangkok’s one and only professional shoeshiner. 
 The man behind the Vulture Shoeshine Shop in Bangkok makes house calls to his clients. An exquisite collection of shoe waxes, leather cleaners and shoe polishes in a range of nuanced colours resides in his brown calf leather bag. He won’t settle for any one brand since he searches out the best of each product, however, he did briefly wax lyrical about Collonil’s line of products. ‘The large assortment of polish colours is particularly outstanding’, he said. According to Aon, his clients are ‘shoe snobs’, as is he, and thus they often speak exclusively about shoes. ‘Our passion for shoes connects us. They’re much more like friends than clients now. We exchange information and tips on how to perfectly polish a shoe’, said Aon, whose actual name is Prote Sakuntalak. 
   
  ‘Clients from India always buy the same shoes’ 
 Aon’s customers are primarily businessmen from outside of Thailand who boast large collections of high-quality leather shoes in their wardrobes at home. He floats away into a dream world just thinking about them. He counts 25 pairs of sleek leather shoes as his own. The majority of his collection are leather loafers and oxfords. He discovered his favourite pair in a second hand shop. They’re ‘Made in Germany’, but he can’t decipher the manufacturer name since the inner lining is so well worn. 
 Is there a difference in the way clients from different countries and cultures handle their shoes? ‘Yes, definitely!’, Aon cried out. ‘My clients from India, for example, wear the same shoes every day and have only a few pairs. Then they call me at least every two months in desperate need of my advice and service. Some wear their shoes out completely and then buy the same ones new again’, explained the shoe aficionado. 
 The streets of Bangkok: A shoe’s worst nightmare 
 Apparently his French clients are the total opposite. They have sizeable collections of shoes and know how to take care of them. They also change their footwear at least three times a week. ‘Funnily enough’, he said, ‘the French always wear brown shoes. No one has been able to tell me why that is’. On the other hand, Japanese businessmen in Bangkok are too busy to take care of their shoes. Thus, Aon is responsible for much of their shoe care. 
 His own people? They like wearing runners and black shoes that will go with anything. ‘Thais will buy a nice pair of shoes for special occasions, but not necessarily for work’, said Aon. Many – especially men – buy their first pair of fine shoes for their own wedding. A good pair of leather shoes is an expensive luxury item for most people in Thailand. After all, they’re a little less than practical on the hot, dusty and bumpy streets of Bangkok. 
 Show me your shoes and I’ll tell you… 
 A typical pair of leather shoes costs around 10,000 baht (approx. 270 euro) in Thailand. Aon recommends individuals spend nearly twice that on a nicer pair so they can pass their treasured footwear onto their children and grandchildren. He suggests wearing a shoe with a rubber sole for daily use around Bangkok and believes in using shoe trees rather than newspaper for storage. He relies on wax and polish in nuanced colours to get the perfect shine. ‘Begin a little lighter, and then go darker’, he recommends. ‘Especially as the colour begins to change over time’. 
 Regularly nourishing your leather shoes will keep them moist and supple and help guarantee they enjoy a long life, just like human skin. Moreover, ‘take a look at a man’s shoes, and you’ll have an idea of how he treats his wife’, laughed Aon, shoe polisher, modern dandy and a true gentleman who adds a touch of style and stoic thoughtfulness to our fast-paced world. 
 Kristina Machalke 
 Title pictures:   Vulture Shoeshine Shop  
                ]]>
            </content>

                            <updated>2017-07-27T00:00:00+02:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">Stay Fit for Outdoor Activities: Waterproof Your Sportswear</title>
            <id>https://www.collonil.com/en/magazine/shoes-more/stay-fit-for-outdoor-activities-waterproof-your-sportswear</id>
            <link href="https://www.collonil.com/en/magazine/shoes-more/stay-fit-for-outdoor-activities-waterproof-your-sportswear"/>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                
                                            Top-quality sportswear and outdoor clothing is both breathable and water repellent. However, these properties gradually fade over time. However, applying the proper treatment to your fabrics can revitalise them in no time at all.
                                        ]]>
            </summary>
            <content type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                 As the winter fades into spring there is little that can keep outdoor fans cooped up indoors any longer. Nature is calling, and cool temperatures and unexpected spring showers are par for the course. As the saying goes, “There’s no such thing as bad weather, only inappropriate clothing”.   But what exactly is appropriate outdoor clothing? For one, it needs to shield against cold, rain and wind, and yet it still needs to be breathable. No wonder practical functional clothing has become the standard in nearly all outdoor sporting activities. 
  Membranes and DWR Coating: How They Work  
   
  Functional hydrophobic textiles feature an internal semipermeable membrane that allows excess body heat to escape and sweat to evaporate whilst block ing external moisture from entering. Closed cell membranes like Sympatex®, for instance, function via osmosis, whereas microporous hydrophobic membranes like Gore-Tex® only allow small water vapour molecules to pass. 
  However, these membranes aren’t the sole contributors to outdoor clothing’s waterproofness. Most functional clothing is coated with a thin outer layer of polyurethane. This so-called durable water repellent (DWR) prevents sportswear from getting soaked through by external moisture which prevents heat exchange from taking place.  
  Regular wear and laundering gradually breaks down even the most robust water-repellent coating. If you’re regularly freezing because your outer layer is soaking through and pulling all the heat away from your body, or condensation is starting to build up inside your outdoor wear, it’s time to make some changes.  
 
 Refresh Your Hydrophobic Coating: Heat or Water-Repellent Sprays 
 Your well-worn sportswear may be far from water-repellent now, but it doesn’t necessarily mean it’s time to throw it in the bin. The first step in refreshing your clothes’ hydrophobic coating is to pop them in the dryer or iron them on a low heat setting. Make sure to place a towel over the clothing for protection before ironing.   If these measures don’t seem to impact the water-resistance, try applying the  UNIVERSAL PROTECTOR  spray or  OUTDOOR SPORT PROOF  for a refreshed layer of protection. Follow this rule of thumb: Less is more. Applying a series of thin layers is more effective than drenching your sportswear with the spray. 
 Easier Still with Water Repellent Detergent 
 Another option is using detergent-based hydrophobic coating. Select a delicate laundry cycle without spinning and add  OUTDOOR WASH IN PROTECTOR  to the fabric softener compartment. Make sure you avoid using any traditional fabric softener as it tends to clog membrane fibres and hinder fabric breathability.    You should likewise stay away from normal laundry detergents, particularly powdered detergents, as they weaken the surface-active agents of the wash-in water-repellent detergent. Powdered soaps clog microporous membranes and roughen the material’s surface. Instead, try using  OUTDOOR TEXTILE WASH  for a gentle clean that maintains both the breathability and functionality of semipermeable membranes.   Regular treatment and laundering will help prevent buildup of sweat and dirt from negatively impacting your outdoor clothing. As long as your sportswear is well coated, the occasional shower won’t rain on your sport parade. 
  Make sure your shoes are also equipped for all-weather by reading expert tips in our monthly newsletter. There you will also find timely updates and discounts for your favourite products.  
 
                ]]>
            </content>

                            <updated>2017-05-10T00:00:00+02:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">Kids Hiking Boots: Shoe Care for Little Adventurers</title>
            <id>https://www.collonil.com/en/magazine/shoes-more/kids-hiking-boots-shoe-care-for-little-adventurers</id>
            <link href="https://www.collonil.com/en/magazine/shoes-more/kids-hiking-boots-shoe-care-for-little-adventurers"/>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                
                                            Kids don&#039;t need head-to-toe premium outdoor gear, but you shouldn’t cut corners with their hiking boots. Here are some care tips from the blogger behind
                                        ]]>
            </summary>
            <content type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                 Every trek through the mountains is an adventure for kids, especially when you take them on interesting trails beyond wide, cleared forest paths. They like to discover nature on snakey routes, rocky climbs and off-road explorations – and if a stream or two crosses their path, all the better! However, adventures like these do demand quite a bit when it comes to cleaning and caring for kids hiking boots. 
 Waterproofing: Extra protection for young explorers 
 Before heading out on a trip, you should give your children&#039;s hiking shoes a solid waterproofing treatment. As you know, your kids won’t pass on any opportunity to splash in a puddle or walk straight through a stream. Mud and muck are also tempting places for children’s feet to explore. Instead of constantly reprimanding your children to keep their boots dry, simply treat their footwear with a quality waterproofing spray. The treatment will also make the boots easier to clean later on. 
 Kids hiking boots are typically made of a combination of light mesh and suede. Many also include a Gore-Tex membrane or similar water-resistant material. Make sure to use waterproofing spray that is suitable for these materials (i.e.  SPORT PROOF ). 
 Kids hiking boots: Cleaning made easy 
 If your little adventurers fall into bed exhausted, mucky hiking boots cast into a corner somewhere not to be found till morning, there’s no need to panic. Even if the dirt and mud has dried, you can apply specialised cleaner (e.g.  OUTDOOR CLEANER ) to the suede with a brush and the rest nearly takes care of itself. 
 If, despite your best efforts, their hiking boots do manage to get wet during a trek, remove the inner soles and stuff the boots full of absorbent paper to soak up excess moisture. Do your best to keep your kids hiking boots warm and dry; that way, they are less likely to develop unpleasant odours. 
 Children’s hiking boots smell too 
 In midsummer, when temperatures are at their peak, even kids shoes can start to stink. To make sure your children can don their hiking boots for the next trek without wrinkling their noses, treat their shoes with a shoe deodorant. No scents will remain in the way of your next adventure. 
  Ute Watzl, age 41, loves exploring in the mountains, whether by foot, mountain bike or skis. For the past few years, she’s been bringing her children along with her. She is the family group leader for the German Alpine Association and blogs about her mountain experiences at: www.zwerg-am-berg.de (in German).  
                ]]>
            </content>

                            <updated>2016-10-26T00:00:00+02:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">Care and protection of vintage leather jackets</title>
            <id>https://www.collonil.com/en/magazine/shoes-more/care-and-protection-of-vintage-leather-jackets</id>
            <link href="https://www.collonil.com/en/magazine/shoes-more/care-and-protection-of-vintage-leather-jackets"/>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                
                                            Spring has arrived at last. And with the proper outfit it is all the more beautiful. At long last the thick winter coats and pullovers can be exchanged for less weighty leather jackets and cheerful colours.
                                        ]]>
            </summary>
            <content type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                 Hip, hip hooray –springtide has come! Away with the thick winter coats and off to the cellar with them! Now is the time to get out the sexy leather jackets and to greet the first rays of the spring sun. What could be cooler than a high quality vintage leather jacket combined with a hip pair of pilot’s spectacles in shimmering bright colours? 
 The trend in the spring and summer of 2015 keeps one warm on cool nights and nestles against one like a second skin. Everyone makes a lasting impression in the proper leather jacket. Cool and nonetheless timeless – once one has found one’s dream model, one will glean pleasure from it for one’s whole life! 
 Whether in biker-look, studded or an elegant model as an alternative to the blazer in the office – the good old leather jacket is as versatile as no other item of clothing. And it joins in with just about any type of fun. These hot items only reveal their true character over the course of time, however. After having been worn a few times they ingratiate themselves to an ever-increasing degree and become softer. 
 Leather jackets in Shabby Chic are anything but shabby 
 Retro-items from the second-hand shop or mummy’s wardrobe are particularly coveted unique specimens that admirers know how to appreciate and take care of. For ugly stains or scratches, dull dry colours and cheap fake materials ensure that the cool leather jacket is turned into an optical nightmare. 
 As paradox as it might sound: the Shabby Style as celebrated by fashion icons such as Kate Moss requires, alongside courage and style, a particularly high degree of care. 
 Only he who, at the heart of his being, is an orderly type is able to afford the disorderly look. This is because a dirty leather jacket soon appears uncool – along with its wearer, whether masculine or feminine. A respectable used leather jacket is characterised by the fact that its surface is not dried out, scratched or stained. 
 Cleaning vintage leather jackets properly 
 After purchasing a vintage leather jacket the first thing it should be subjected to is dry-cleaning. What can be washed and brushed off will not be unnecessarily rubbed in during subsequent wet cleaning. 
 Brushes, cleaning stones or towels assist you in this. Should wet leather care be required, apply a cleansing foam with a cloth or sponge. Most cleansing foams are suitable for all types of materials. The milder they are the better. After cleaning you should, under all circumstances, allow your leather jacket to dry out properly! 
 If, after cleaning, dry patches are recognisable or should the leather make a dull impression, a nurturing cream that supplies the material with moisture can help. Leather, in the course of time and through being worn, loses nutrients which can be replenished in such a simple manner. The result is that the colour gains in depth once more and the leather becomes more supple. 
 Proper waterproofing also affords protection against water stains caused by rain or accidents involving drinks at parties. This causes wetness to be repelled and any dirt will remain on the surface and not penetrate deep into the pores. 
 More tips on the topics of the cleaning of and caring for your favourite articles can be found in our monthly newsletter. 
  by Kristina Machalke  
                ]]>
            </content>

                            <updated>2016-04-01T00:00:00+02:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
</feed>
