How to Restore Baby Shoes

The methods used to restore baby shoes depend on whether or not your munchkin will still be wearing them when you're done. If you're cleaning them to bronze them, you don't have to be as careful with the solutions used on the shoes. However, if your child will be wearing the shoes again, make some modifications to the shoe restoration process to ensure no harsh chemicals get anywhere near her feet -- or in her mouth if she's still testing out the taste of her toes.

Remove the laces from the shoes and wash them separately. Most shoelaces can be thrown in the washing machine. Alternatively, wash the shoelaces by hand, using a gentle laundry detergent and water.

Remove dirt from leather baby shoes by applying leather cleaner made for smooth leather material, using the applicator tip on the cleaner. Follow the manufacturer's instructions to remove excess cleaner. Dry the shoes. Shine the shoes with a soft cloth if the shoes look restored. Alternatively, if you're concerned about harsh chemicals, make leather cleaner from 1 tablespoon of vinegar and 2 tablespoons of food-grade linseed oil. Dab a clean, white cloth into the mixture and scrub the shoes gently, using small, circular motions. Allow the shoes to dry overnight. Shine the shoes, using a soft cloth.

Spritz ground-in stains with aerosol hairspray. Clean the area gently in circular motions, using a soft cloth. Alternatively, if the hairspray is ineffective, moisten a melamine foam eraser and rub the stains gently with the foam.

Combat mold and mildew on your baby's leather shoes if they've been packed away in storage 2. Combine 1/4 cup rubbing alcohol with 1/4 cup water. Apply a little of the mixture to a damp, white cloth. Apply the mixture to the shoes, using a circular motion. Allow the shoes to dry completely.