Shoe care products are meant to keep your shoes clean; however, some of the ingredients in these products may be negatively affecting your health. If you are not sure about what exactly is going on your shoes, the team at Sofia Shoe Repair Service in Rochester, NY, recommends getting help from a professional. Here, they outline a few different products and explain why they aren’t safe for at-home use.

The Safety of Your Shoe Care Products

1. Polish & Shine Kits

Shoe polish is made from various ingredients including petroleum jelly and silicone oil. While this mixture gives your shoes a beautiful shine, it may contain a harmful ingredient called turpentine oil. Originating from pine trees, this substance negatively affects the kidneys, heart, lungs, and nervous system if ingested or inhaled. It may be difficult to notice these harmful substances because numerous fragrances are used to cover up the strong odors; so, it is crucial to have your shoes shined by a cobbler who implements safety measures while using shine kits.

2. Cleaning Kits

Cleaning kits effectively get rid of dirt on your shoes. However, using these products may come at a price. In recent years, cleaners that have been produced in liquid and aerosol forms also contain ingredients that are harmful to people and the Earth. For example, solvents that dissolve dirt can cause severe allergic reactions if they come in contact with the skin. Going to a shoe care professional who is well-versed in cleaning safety practices will keep you from sustaining injuries.

3. Natural Options

There are a few natural shoe cleaning options if you are looking to clean your shoes at home without harming your health. White distilled vinegar is a natural cleaner that will help bring shine to your leather shoes. Alternatively, toothpaste cleans small marks on canvas shoes. For a deeper cleaning, however, going to a professional shoe repair store is highly recommended.

If you have a pair of shoes that you would like to have cleaned, contact Sofia Shoe Repair Service. With over 72 years of experience in shoe repair and recoloring their team guarantees expert craftsmanship and customer service. For more information about the shoe care products that they use, visit their website or call them at (585) 244-5907.