Proper shoe maintenance

[kbreit]

This is more of a 101 but I have a 6 month old pair of Allen Edmonds Clifton shoes and I'm trying to understand the best method to maintain them. I apply shoe conditioner first and then spread black polish on it. Using the soft cloth I put a very limited amount of water on the shoe and buff until the polish is gone and there is a shine. I don't spend 30 minutes and multiple passes on the water. Should I be using a wax on it? Should I go over it a couple more times with water?

Also, how often should I do this routine? Is this doable on a monthly basis with another set of maintenance every wear? Or is this something I do every time I wear it?

 

[Shawl Lapel]

I really only use water if I'm going to spit shine the shoe. Then I'm using wax too in addition to polish. As for how often? When they look like they need some upkeep. Otherwise you can just brush them after you wear them.

 

[Academic2]

There's a lot of good information to found in this classic thread:

http://www.styleforum.net/t/228153/the-official-shoe-care-thread-tutorials-photos-etc

Cheers,

Ac