How to Care for Handcrafted Footwear – Radiarte Guide

Handcrafted footwear is not just an accessory — it is an investment. Every Radiarte pair is made by skilled artisans using premium materials and traditional techniques. With the right care, your handcrafted footwear can last for years and only get more beautiful with time.

Here is your complete guide to caring for your Radiarte footwear.

Why Handcrafted Footwear Needs Special Care

Unlike mass-produced footwear, handcrafted pieces use natural materials like leather, fabric, embroidery thread, and traditional embellishments. These materials are beautiful and durable — but they do require a little extra attention to stay looking their best.

The good news? Caring for handcrafted footwear is simple once you know the basics.

General Care Tips for All Radiarte Footwear

• Always store your footwear in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight
• Avoid wearing handcrafted footwear in heavy rain or wet conditions
• Never machine wash or submerge in water
• Allow your footwear to air out after each wear before storing
• Use a soft cloth to wipe away dust and dirt after every use
• Store in the original dust bag or a cloth bag to prevent scratches

How to Care for Juttis

Juttis are traditionally made with fabric, embroidery, and sometimes leather soles — each requiring gentle care.

Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to gently wipe the surface after each wear. For light stains, use a barely damp cloth and blot — never rub. Allow to air dry completely before storing.

Embroidery care: Never scrub embroidered areas. If the embroidery gets dirty, use a soft toothbrush dipped in mild soapy water and gently brush in the direction of the thread. Pat dry immediately.

Breaking in your juttis: New juttis may feel snug initially — this is completely normal. Wear them for short periods at first, and they will soften and mould to your foot beautifully within a few wears.

How to Care for Mules and Slides

Mules and slides are everyday footwear — and with simple care, they will stay looking fresh for a long time.

Cleaning: Wipe the footbed and straps with a soft damp cloth after each wear. For stubborn marks, use a mild soap solution and a soft cloth. Always air dry — never use a hairdryer or direct heat.

Footbed care: The footbed absorbs sweat over time. Sprinkle a small amount of baking soda inside and leave overnight to absorb odours. Tap out before wearing.

Sole care: Check the soles periodically for wear. If you wear your mules frequently on rough surfaces, consider adding a thin rubber sole protector from a cobbler — it significantly extends the life of the footwear.

How to Care for Heels

Heels require the most attention as the heel tip bears the most pressure during wear.

Heel tip maintenance: The heel tip is the first part to wear out. Get it replaced at a cobbler as soon as you notice significant wear — do not wait until the metal pin is exposed, as this can damage floors and make the heel unstable.

Cleaning: Use a soft cloth to clean the upper and heel. For fabric heels, use a dry cloth only. For any embellishments, handle gently with a soft brush.

Storage: Always store heels upright or in individual shoe compartments to prevent the heel from bending or breaking under pressure.

How to Store Your Radiarte Footwear

Proper storage is just as important as cleaning.

• Store each pair in its dust bag or wrap in soft cloth
• Keep pairs separated to prevent color transfer between embellishments
• Stuff juttis lightly with tissue paper to help them hold their shape
• Store heels in an upright position
• Keep all footwear away from damp areas, humidity, and direct sunlight
• If storing for a long period, air them out every few weeks

What to Avoid

• ❌ Never machine wash
• ❌ Never use harsh chemicals or bleach
• ❌ Never dry in direct sunlight — colours will fade
• ❌ Never store in plastic bags — footwear needs to breathe
• ❌ Never wear in heavy rain without protection
• ❌ Never stack footwear on top of each other without protection

When to Visit a Cobbler

Even the best-cared-for footwear will eventually need professional attention. Visit a cobbler when:

• The heel tip is significantly worn
• The sole is separating from the upper
• The insole has worn thin and needs replacing
• The straps need tightening or restitching

A good cobbler can extend the life of your handcrafted footwear by years.

Shop Radiarte — Pan India Delivery 🇮🇳

Every Radiarte pair is crafted to last — with the right care, your footwear will be a cherished part of your wardrobe for years to come. Browse our full collection at www.radiarte.in

Each pair is handcrafted with love — Radiarte, Swadesi Luxury.