alcohol stains on leather shoe

[davidj19]

Someone spilled their drink on my on my leather shoes. Has anyone successfully removed alcohol from leather dress shoes, or should I have them dyed dark brown?

Thanks, David

 

[dv3]

I have had this problem. Take them to your cobler. I was charged $15 and after my shoes basically looked as good as new, yet shinier because of the polish. My cobbler used this (I think):

 

[MrG]

I would think it would depend heavily on the drink that was spilled. Something with a lot of coloring/mixer is going to do a lot more damage than a drink served neat or on the rocks. Think of the difference between, say, a vodka cranberry and a scotch served neat.

 

[dsarna]

hmm

 

[Flambeur]

Ugh this always happens to me. Gotta try a cobbler, there is one nearby.

 

[Bird's One View]

You could try cleaning them with either vodka or rubbing alcohol. Lexol (or whatever) and polish after.

 

[Mild Mannered]

Originally Posted by Bird's One View

You could try cleaning them with either vodka or rubbing alcohol. Lexol (or whatever) and polish after.

Vodka will stain outsides! Avoid. (Good for sterilizing the insides of used shoes though.)
I recommend Varsol if you have any. Put on old cloth. Work entire shoe. Let dry 1 hr.
Lotion (or Lexol), let dry again, polish & buff.

The gent who recommended the stain remover is probably even better advice,
though I haven't personally used that product, I trust he's right about it.

 

[f668]

very difficult duty since color has been remooved by alcohol

 

[dv3]

If the spot is properly removed the right polish will quickly restore the color. If the OP hasn't done so yet, just take the shoes to a cobbler! This is a rather easy job for them and avoids the chance that one ruins their own shoes.