Cream shoe polish nourishes, restores color, and gives leather shoes a soft natural shine. It’s easy to apply and safer for delicate leathers than wax polish, making it a go-to for regular leather care.
Does Dubbin Waterproof Leather?
Saphir produces several variants of dubbin, each made for specific leather needs.
Step-by-Step: How to Use Cream Shoe Polish Properly
Follow these simple steps to get the best results — or watch the video below for a complete visual guide.
1. Clean the surface
Remove dirt and old polish using a soft brush or damp cloth.
Let the shoes dry completely before applying any cream.
2. Apply a small amount of cream polish
Take a pea-sized amount of cream with a soft cloth or applicator brush.
Rub it gently in small circular motions to allow the cream to penetrate the leather.
Use keywords like how to use shoe cream and how do you use shoe cream here — apply evenly and avoid over-coating.
3. Let it absorb
Wait about 10–15 minutes so the cream nourishes the leather.
4. Buff and shine
Use a horsehair brush or microfiber cloth to buff the surface.
Continue polishing until you get a soft, satin-like shine.
5. Optional — add a wax finish
For extra shine and water resistance, top it off with a thin layer of wax polish (see our guide: [How to Use Dubbin Wax: Step-by-Step Guide for Leather Boots and Shoes]).
Can You Use Shoe Cream on Other Materials?
| Material | Suitable for Cream Polish? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Smooth Leather | ✅ Yes | Ideal for nourishing and recoloring. |
| Nubuck & Suede | ❌ No | These leathers need special sprays, not creams. |
| Patent Leather | ⚠️ Not Recommended | Use mild cleaners for glossy finish. |
| Synthetic Leather | ⚠️ Use Caution | Cream may not absorb properly; use a synthetic-safe conditioner instead. |
If your shoes are made of nubuck or suede, use a dedicated suede cleaner or spray protector instead of cream polish to avoid staining.
Best Shoe Creams You Can Buy (2025)
Here are some of the best-rated shoe creams available in the U.S.:
Saphir Médaille d’Or Pommadier Cream – Premium French cream, rich pigments, nourishes deep leather layers.
Kiwi Leather Cream Polish – Affordable, easy to find, perfect for everyday maintenance.
Dr. Martens Shoe Polish Cream – Designed for Dr. Martens leather, prevents cracks and fading.
Angelus Leather Cream – Great for restoring faded colors on both dress and casual shoes.
(Related: Dubbin vs Wonder Balsam – Which Is Better for Leather?)
How Often Should You Use Cream Shoe Polish?
For regular wear, polish your shoes every 2–3 weeks.
Apply cream first for nourishment, then wax for waterproofing.
Key Tips for Best Results
Match the cream color with your shoe color (e.g., use brown shoe polish for brown shoes).
Never mix cream and wax in one step — let each absorb fully.
Always test new creams on a hidden area first.
How to Use Dr. Martens Shoe Polish Cream
If you own Dr. Martens boots, use their official cream polish.
Apply a thin coat with a cloth.
Let it sit for 10 minutes.
Buff it using a soft brush.
This product is formulated specifically for smooth leather Dr. Martens, helping retain their signature finish without over-darkening.
Also read: [Dr. Martens Dubbin – Is It Good for Dr. Martens Shoes?]
Conclusion
Cream shoe polish is the best way to restore color, nourish leather, and keep your shoes looking new. Whether you use Dr. Martens, Kiwi, or Saphir, regular polishing keeps your leather soft and prevents cracks — a must for long-lasting care.
