11 Best Shoe Protector Sprays To Stain-Proof Your Sneakers
Protect your shoes and give them a perfectly polished look with these handy sprays.
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Stained shoes can ruin an entire look no matter how perfect your outfit and accessories are. That’s why you need the best shoe protector spray to keep your shoe protected as they protect you from a fashion disaster. Dirt, rain, and regular wear can deteriorate the condition of your shoes if they aren’t well maintained. A protector spray will not just make your shoes look perfect but also increase their longevity. Shoe protector sprays make your shoe care process effortless and instant.
Investing in one premium quality shoe protector spray can keep your shoes sturdy and new for a long time. They are a great solution for getting shiny shoes, stain resistance, and weatherproofing. There are different kinds of shoe materials such as suede, leather, knit, canvas, etc., and taking care of them might demand different formulas. We have listed the 11 best shoe protector sprays for all these materials. In this article, you will also learn in detail what does a shoe protector really does.
In This Article
What Does A Shoe Protector Spray Do?
A shoe protector spray is specially formulated to protect your shoes from stains, dirt, and dust. It adds an invisible coating layer that helps in staving off water or any other liquid. There is a wide variety of protector sprays available in the market, some of them designed to prevent stains while others to shield the shoe fabric from UV rays that cause discoloration and dull your shoes down.
11 Best Shoe Protector Sprays To Keep Your Footwear In Form
1. Best Overall: The Art Of Crep Protect Spray
When looking to get your favorite shoes in peak form, turn your attention to this impregnating spray from Crep Protect. It’s specially designed to eliminate stains from all types of linen, canvas, suede, and nubuck shoes. The secret to the spray’s nearly magical effect is an invisible coating, which seals pores to stave off liquids and prevent stains from forming. Whether it’s incessant rainwater or accidental coffee spills, the protector uses revolutionary nanotechnology to keep your shoes safe, dry, and polished. It’s ideal for those who inevitably end up with stained shoes after a day out. Check out the review of this product for more information.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Dries quickly
- Gives great results after 2 coats
- Works on most types of fabrics
Cons
- The quantity is slightly less.
Pro Tip2. Best For Stain Prevention: Kiwi Protect All Rain and Stain Repellant
The KIWI Protect-All Waterproofer Spray keeps water and grime out of your shoes while allowing them to breathe. It protects your sneakers against filth by forming a transparent shield on the leather, velvet, and rubber material and keeping oil- and water-based stains at bay. It protects your shoes against rain and snow and helps to keep your shoes dry. This multipurpose spray can also be used on coats, boots, bags, etc. to keep them clean and looking new.
Pros
- Suitable for all colors
- Ideal for sudden weather changes
- Safe to use
- Repels ice and mud stains
- Waterproofs the shoe surface
Cons
- May take time to dry
3. Best No-Residue Formula: Apple Brand Garde Rain & Stain Repellent
Made for all types of leather, this spray protector acts as the ultimate shield for your shoes. It’s great at preventing shoes from getting ruined by everything from salt stains and body oil to wine, coffee, water spots, and so on. The product dies quickly, doesn’t leave a sticky residue, and the best part is that it doesn’t change the shoe shade. It forms an invisible seal that keeps water as well as stains out while retaining breathability. You can try it on suede, leather, or nubuck shoes, upholstery, handbags, and even car interiors.
Pros
- Safe to use
- Minimizes rub-off
- Versatile product
- Great for expensive shoes and bags
Cons
- The bottle is slightly delicate.
4. Best Silicone-Free Formula: Rust-Oleum Clear Shield H2O Boot & Shoe Spray
The Rust-Oleum NeverWet Boot Spray is a revolutionary protector that was developed to take good care of your boots, dress shoes, tennis shoes, and casual footwear. It provides the surface with a hydrophobic coating that makes repelling liquids, including water and moisture, really easy. Created with the intention to make your daily life simpler, this special product has a clear, silicone-free formula that keeps your goods in their original form — stainless and protected from the elements. In fact, this spray does not affect the fabric of your shoes at all, making them look brand-new with no signs of environmental damage.
Pros
- Easy application
- Ideal for all types of shoes
- Repels ice and mud stains
- Waterproofs the shoe surface
Cons
- Needs to be applied in open or ventilated spaces
5. Best Color-Protecting Formula: Collonil Carbon Pro High Tech Impragnierer
Those who can’t stand even the smallest of stains will fall in love with this sneaker protector that works especially well on white. Induced with new carbon fiber technology, it keeps the fabric in prime condition and is effective on all types of materials, including leather and suede. The spray has a translucent formula that doesn’t discolor shoes and preserves the breathability of textiles while repelling liquids and enhancing the airflow. You can choose between the 300ml and 400ml variants and use them on everything from casual kicks to hiking boots.
Pros
- Premium quality
- No color change involved
- Protects from rain and dirt
- Ideal for leather items
- No discernible smell
Cons
- Slightly expensive
6. Best For Leather: Bickmore Gard-More Water & Stain Repellent
Bickmore is a renowned name in leather production and protection. The spray comes with a special formula that tops your shoes with a protective layer to serve as a guard against water, dirt, oil, grass stains, and more. Incredibly versatile, it works like a charm on suede, leather, felt, fabric, and nubuck. The protector’s effectiveness extends beyond shoes to coats, hats, gloves, upholstery, luggage, and furniture, so you literally never have to worry about specks and smears again. Since the formula is invisible, the original fabric of items will remain unaffected. Leather in particular is highly compatible with it, which means your shoes won’t stiffen up after application.
Check out the video by this YouTuber for a detailed review on this product.
Pros
- Minimizes rub-off
- Reduces scuffing
- Silicon-free protector
- Breathable
- Versatile uses
Cons
- The quantity is slightly low.
7. Best Hydrophobic Formula: Tarrago High Tech Nano Protector
Formulated on the basis of revolutionary nanotechnology, this protector is way more effective than your usual sprays. The formula, when applied to shoes, handbags, or other accessories, creates an imperceptible layer that protects the surface from impurities like water, dirt, and oil. This process, also known as the lotus flower effect due to the spray’s superhydrophobic nature, keeps things dry and in great condition. With the use of nano elements, the material fibers of all your suede, nubuck, and leather items will repel moisture effectively. However, it’s not suited to patent or metallic leather, so check the material carefully before using it.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Ultra-hydrophobic
- Available in 2 sizes
- Enhances breathability
Cons
- Might stain if overused
Pro Tip8. Best For Multipurpose Use: Moneysworth & Best Pro-Tex Water + Stain Protector
This water and stain protector is specially formulated to keep your favorite shoes and accessories as glossy as the day you bought them. Made for genuine and faux leather as well as other fabrics, the spray is ideal for prolonging the life of your products. From fading and discoloration to cracking and premature aging, it’s capable of tackling the majority of problems that plague most shoes. The protectant creates a translucent layer of protection that staves off water, dirt, salt, and oil without altering any colors or textures. While the lanolin in the formula is great at conditioning leather, the silicone serves as a waterproofing agent, making it ideal for year-round protection.
Pros
- Safe to use
- Quick-drying
- Silicone-based spray
- Preserves breathability
- Keeps footwear looking new
Cons
- It’s not suitable for vinyl or patent leather.
9. Best Quick-Drying Formula: Woosh Shoe Defender V2.0
If you’re looking for a way to make sure your shoes never get dirty again, Woosh is all you need. It has the power of a highly concentrated formula that protects fabrics with only 2 coats, making them look newly bought. In fact, the manufacturer advises against a heavier dosage than that to prevent over-saturation. The product rinses away stains and revives your shoe’s original texture when dried, which doesn’t take too long. With 15 minutes of the second layer, you’re good to go! This formula is ideal for canvas, suede, and nubuck, but unfortunately not for leather.
Pros
- Dries in 15 minutes
- Higher quantity
- Extra-strong formula
- Water and stain-resistant
Cons
- Not suitable for leather
10. Best Easy-To-Apply: Gold Standard Premium Water-Repellent Shoe Protector Spray
The Gold Standard Premium Water-Repellent Shoe Protector Spray keeps your shoes looking fresh and clean. This spray’s nanotech composition fights moisture and keeps water at bay. Any water that drops on it beads up and rolls off. This way your feet stay dry, comfortable, and safe from infections. This spray is perfect for any shoe material, whether it is leather or mesh. It prevents stains, delays degradation, and preserves the neat look of your sneakers for longer.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Affordable
- Quick drying
- Works on exotic fabrics
- Versatile
Cons
- Very strong smell
11. Best For Exotic Fabrics: Simple Shine Water + Stain Repellent
Here’s a quick and easy solution that gets rid of water, oil, and dirt stains so well, you won’t realize they were ever there. Formulated for providing protection to designer and luxury goods, this spray has a lot to offer. Not only does it protect your shoes from the elements, but it also improves their longevity. The liquid-repelling, stain-prevention treatment is safe for use on all colors since it doesn’t darken the material. If anything, it enhances the natural beauty of leather, suede, nubuck, and other fabrics. Providing a smooth finish, the spray is dye-free, breathable, safety-tested, and works perfectly on exotic skins, vinyl, and colorfast fabrics.
Pros
- Dye-free
- Safe to use
- Works on exotic fabrics
- Leaves no residue
Cons
- At least 2 coats of spray are needed.
Now that you know how different shoe protection sprays perform different functions, you might be wondering how to choose the one that works for the bulk of your shoe closet. Here’s a quick list of factors to consider for a better pick:
Things To Consider When Choosing A Shoe Protector Spray
- Versatility
A shoe protector must be versatile enough to protect a wide variety of materials and fabrics, especially common ones like leather, suede, and canvas. If its range is limited to just one or two types, you might end up wearing only those shoes and neglecting the harder-to-clean sneakers. Additionally, your shoe protector spray should work in all types of weather conditions and last long. Multifunctional sprays that can be used for other household items like furniture and bags are definitely a practical choice.
- Formula
The formula of a shoe protector has to be strong enough to keep your footwear stainless and provide great coverage. Also, it must be shoe-friendly and not leave any residue behind. You can opt for sprays with a natural composition as such formulas are eco-friendly. The ones with chemical ingredients might smell weird when used in closed spaces, so try to avoid them.
- Application
The whole point of a shoe protector spray is to make shoe-cleaning simple and hassle-free. Go for options that don’t require multiple applications and repel liquids easily. Also, think about what kind of use you want out of it. If you live somewhere snowy or rainy, prioritize waterproofing over other functions. Similarly, for the specific purpose of sprucing up white shoes, you might want to buy a spray that emphasizes stain resistance.
Using a shoe protector spray is really easy, but there are some things to keep in mind before you press that magic nozzle. Below is a quick, step-by-step guide for first-time users.
How To Use A Shoe Protector Spray?
Step 1: Check the instructions
Always read the manufacturer’s instructions before using the spray. Most of them are designed for specific fabrics and can be damaging to others. Additionally, some sprays can be used indoors while others only in wide-open spaces.
Step 2: Hold the spray at an arm’s length
You need to maintain a distance of at least 8 to 9 inches between the nozzle and your shoes.
Steps 3: Apply and let dry
Spray all over your shoes and give them some time to dry. It usually takes 15 to 30 minutes for the sneaker to be ready for the outside world.
Life becomes simpler (and glossier) when you get your hands on the best shoe protector spray for all your precious shoes. You won’t have to toss them for a wash every time you wear them, which is a great way to increase their longevity. These formulas give your shoes the care they deserve after enduring the harshest parts of the outside world while keeping your everyday look on point. Before buying, however, keep in mind what you’d like your spray to do, whether that is waterproofing, stain repelling, crack smoothening, or everything at once. If you want the biggest bang for your buck, pick a spray that can be used on other items like a leather jacket or a couch.
Infographic: How To Choose The Right Shoe Protector Spray
No matter how beautiful your clothing and accessories are, dirty shoes can ruin your appearance. This is why you need the finest protector spray to keep your shoes safe. A shoe protection spray will not only make your shoes look great, but it will also extend their life. It will keep your shoes clean and fresh for a long time. This infographic lists a few factors you must consider while selecting the best shoe protector spray. Check it out! Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
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Why Trust StyleCraze?
Shoes play a vital role in giving us a refined look. While it is fun to buy, maintaining them, in the long run, is essential too. Our experienced writer Priyam Gupta, who is also a fashion enthusiast, brings you this list of the best shoe protector sprays after thorough research on various e-commerce websites and studying numerous reviews of existing users.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the best waterproof spray for shoes?
If you’re looking for all-rounders, the Collonil, Bickmore, and Rust-Oleum sprays are some of the best sprays in the market that give your shoes protection against water.
How long does a shoe protector spray last?
A shoe protector’s longevity depends on factors like quality and weather conditions. For example, in winters, you might need to spray just once or twice, while during the rainy season, you might have to spray more to stave off the water stains.
How far away should I be from the shoe when spraying?
One should hold the spray at a distance of 8 to 12 inches while spraying. If the product description says it needs to be sprayed in an open space, make sure to follow the instructions.
How often do I need to apply the shoe protector spray?
You might need to apply a shoe protector spray after every 2 to 4 weeks. Again, this depends on how frequently you wear the same pair and what the weather conditions are like.
Do different climates and conditions affect the spray’s functions?
Yes, they do. Shoes worn in rain or snow-heavy regions will demand more frequent application, whereas shoes that aren’t exposed to much dirt or moisture can go 2 to 4 weeks before the next spray.
How often should you spray your shoes?
Spray your shoes after every four weeks if you wear them regularly to retain their look. Shoes that you wear rarely should be sprayed after every eight weeks.
What is the best shoe spray protector?
The Art Of Crep Protect Spray is the best spray protector as it can keep your shoes dry, safe, and polished. This spray can increase the shelf life of your shoes and keep all the stains away.
How can I keep my shoes protected?
Apart from using a protectant spray, try the following ways to protect your shoes:
• Paste rubber sole guards to prevent the soles from wearing out.
• Use leather creams to condition your leather shoes.
• Stuff your shoes with charcoal pouches to keep away bad odor and moisture.
• Store your shoes in a cool and dry place inside dust bags or boxes.
How do you spray waterproof spray?
• Wipe dirt off your shoes.
• Shake the spray bottle and spray from a distance of 10 cm onto the surface of the shoes.
• Use a brush with soft bristles to rub the coating on the surface
• Use a soft cloth to rub off any excess product.
How long does a waterproof spray last?
On average, waterproof sprays last for four months. But, it also depends on the environmental factors. Regular exposure to sun and rainfall can wear off sprays faster and you will need to spray more often.
How long does a waterproof spray take to dry?
Usually, a waterproof spray takes a minimum of twenty minutes to dry. But, some instant sprayers can dry within a few minutes.
How do you remove waterproof spray from shoes?
You can remove waterproof sprays from shoes by rubbing either ether or alcohol with a microfiber towel onto the surface. This way you can easily break down the waterproof sprays.
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