The shoes that we wear are more than just fashion statements. It is more than just footwear. Shoes serve as protective barriers for our feet. It keeps our feet safe from all the potentially harmful and hazardous materials found on the ground. And since we use shoes almost every day, time will come when we will have to replace it. It would be really impractical to keep on buying shoes and so if you want to be able to save more on shoe expenses all you have to do is take good care of it.

Men's and women's shoes may vary in design or style but the materials used to manufacture it are the same. More or less the following shoe care tips are applicable to both men's and women's footwear.

1. Do not throw the original box. The boxes may take a whole lot of space inside your closet but it will help lengthen the lifespan of your shoes. Shoe boxes keep dust and moisture from building up thus protecting your shoes.

2. Shine or clean your shoes. If you have leather shoes keep them shiny and clean. By doing so you will able to maintain its original shine and keep the materials from cracking at the same time. If you went some place where mud is abundant do not forget to clean your shoes.

3. Keep your shoes dry. This is really important especially if you have sweaty feet. Perspiration can cause moisture to build up inside your shoes which will eventually weaken the materials inside it. Another thing, keep in mind that bacteria thrive on moisture. These bacteria can cause some serious feet problems. One way to keep the shoes dry is by wearing various pairs of shoes. By doing so you are giving enough time for one pair to completely dry.

4. Use shoe trees. After using your shoes place the shoe trees inside it immediately. The whole point of doing this is to help your shoes reform and reduce the creases that were formed while you're wearing it.

5. Shoe Horn. If you don't want the heel of your shoe to lose its form it would be best if you use a shoe horn while putting it on and taking it off. Shoe horns will guide your feet into the shoe by allowing your feet to slide inside. With the shoe horn you won't have to wiggle your foot as you place it inside.

6. Change the heels. When you notice that the heel of your shoe is already thin and uneven it would be better if you take it to a shoe repair shop and have it changed. You may not notice it but an uneven heel will affect the way you walk and your posture.

Taking good care of your shoes will surely extend its life. The longer the shoes last the more money you will be able to save. Aside from that do not forget that if you want to look good you should look good from head to toe.