I’m in love with my Jack Rogers sandals. I got my first pair in college and they broke from fatigue. This is my second pair, and I’ve had them re-soled once. However, as you can see, they have a nice patina to them from years of love and wear.
Since they are $118 sandals I can’t just throw them out and buy a new pair. Especially because Jacks take some time to wear-in and mold to your feet. But once they do, baby, they are the BEST sandals around.
Today’s DIY project will teach you how to clean your Jacks with only 3 tools!
What you need:
- Saddle Soap (I got mine at CVS)
- A clean toothbrush
- Paper towel or rag
First, wet the soles with a damp paper towel or rag. Wet them just enough so they are damp, but not soaked. Rub some of the saddle soap on the problem areas with your finger, then scrub with the toothbrush until you get a nice lather going.
Repeat the process until you are happy with the result. I went back about 4-5 times and scrubbed. They don’t look like new (they never will because of the way leather wears) but they definitely look better.
I highly recommend doing this whole process over a sink or put down some newspaper.
Be careful with the heels, as the leather pieces may fall off. I recommend using a tweezer or q-tip to thoroughly clean the heels. If the heel pads do fall off, just use some crazy glue to stick them back on. I’ve done it before and it works really well.
I will probably keep scrubbing until they get a little bit cleaner. But you get the picture.
If you like DIY projects, check out this post to make your own Moscow Mules.
–Roxanne
Currently Sipping: H2O
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When i cleaned my jacks like this they started to get worse the dirt was spreading? What did I do Wrong?
Hmmm. Sometimes when they are wet it just seems like the dirt is spreading. Wait for them to dry so you can see your result then try it again! If they are too foregone (which does happen with such well-loved shoes) then it might be time for a new pair. I recently had a to retire a pair because they were simply too worn and dirty to fix.
they look great and shiney!! Great tip!
Thank you!
I so needed this post today, my Jacks are looking busted!! I need to save this too. 🙂
Brooke
pumps and push-ups
I’m glad you find it useful! I just couldn’t bring myself to buy another pair when these are so loved. I’m sure you can relate!
Looking good! It’s also good the environment to fix, clean, etc. an old pair of shoes (or anything for that matter!) rather than toss ’em as soon as they have an issue and buy new ones. I recently took my luggage to a shoe/luggage repair because a crucial seam in the bag was ripping… They added a strip of leather into the seam for added strength and my luggage is going strong 5+ years!
Thanks, Moriah! It is definitely an investment to fix something rather than to keep buying inexpensive versions over and over. But I think it is worth it, too!