Shoe Polishing Question

I've got the "mirror" shine thing going on my shoes finally, and am wondering what I do now for future polishing sessions? Do i use the Saphir Wax and brush with a horsehair brush? Do i not brush and just shine clean with a cotton cloth? How often do I clean with conditioner?

The method of acheiving a mirror shine I was taught was to brush first, and then finish off with a slightly dampened 'fine' cloth. Some here prefer terry cloths or chamois, but I still feel that a nylon sock or stocking does the job best. Keep the mirror shine to only the toecap area and not the vamp, because otherwise when you walk the wax on your vamp will crack and you will look... stupid.

Here's my methods:


1. Kiwi Parade Gloss polish,(just my favourite, but any good polish should be OK).
2. Good quality cotton cloth (old CK t-shirt)
3. Good horse hair "putting on" brush and horse hair polishing brush.
4. Apply polish with putting on brush. Leave to dry for a few minutes.
5. Brush vigorously with horse hair polishing brush.
6. Wrap the cloth around your index finger, and apply a small amount of polish to the toecap.
7. Go round in small circles with the cloth adding a small amount of polish until the toe cap is covered.
8. Add few drops of cold tap water (or vintage champagne according to Olga Berlutti) either flicked onto the shoe or dip the cloth in the water, and repeat step 7.
9. Add some more polish (small amount).
10. Repeat 7, 8 , and 9 until you are happy with the shine.
11. If necessary to make the shine more "uniform" over the toe cap, finish off by shining with a pair of ladies stockings (not always necessary).
12. Drink remainder of champagne.
If you mess it up, just repolish the toe cap with the polishing brush and start again. You will need to do it a few times before you see really good results.