A common question I am asked is ‘what’s the difference between wax polish and cream?’ and it’s very easy to confuse the two. Today I will discuss the difference between the two and at what times you should use each on your leather shoes and boots. As I’m sure once you have purchased a pair of shoes or boots you’re naturally going to want to be able to maintain them properly.
Wax Polish
Wax polish differs from cream in the effect it will have on your shoes. Typically a wax shoe polish will bring out a high glossy shine in your shoes. This is because it consists of hard waxes, which when buffed create a lovely shine. Additionally, the various ingredients will help feed the leather of your shoes as well as adding a layer of protection. If you’re looking to cover up scuff marks, protect your leather or just simply shine your shoes than I recommend wax polish for sure. It will feed the leather to some extent.
How to wax polish your shoes:
1. Brush off any excess dirt
2. Apply a dab of wax polish onto a cloth and apply in a circular motion onto your shoes or area you wish to polish. Also work the wax into the welts to help deter water ingress
3. Let the wax dry for around 3-4 minutes
4. Buff the wax with your shoe brush until you get a nice shine
Cream Polish
Cream polish is mostly used when your shoes are in a sorrier state, if your shoes are looking rather weathered and dried out. Since leather is a natural material it needs feeding. Cream provides great nourishment for your leather and helps to bring back the colour and vibrancy to your shoes. Do take note however, cream polish leaves your shoes with a satin finish rather than a high shine like wax. That’s why I advise, if you’re going to use a cream polish, then finish off by polishing your shoes with a wax polish to give them a better shine and more weather proofing.
How to use cream polish:
1. Brush off any excess dirt
2. Apply a dab of cream polish onto a cloth and apply in a circular motion onto your shoes or area you wish to polish
3. Let the cream dry for around 3-4 minutes
4. Buff the cream with your shoe brush until you get a nice satin finish
For shoes in dire need of attention
If you are wishing to resurrect old shoes that have been neglected for years or have just found a pair of your grandad’s leather boots and want to restore them. Then there are two extra products you may need. These are mink oil and Dubbin. Mink oil acts as miracle product as it will penetrate deep into your leathers and give them a new revitalised look. Dubbin is for those hard-core shoes that face whatever the elements have to offer. Dubbin will waterproof your leathers greater than a wax polish can and prevent your leather from drying out and cracking.
