How to Get Creases Out of Leather Shoes Without Damaging Them

If you’re wondering how to get creases out of leather shoes, you’re not alone. Even the best leather shoes develop creases over time from walking, pressure, or moisture.

The good news? You can reduce or remove them without damaging the leather. In this guide, we’ll show you simple, safe ways to smooth out those lines and help your shoes look clean and well-kept again.

Let’s start by understanding why leather creases happen and what they mean for your shoes.

The Truth About Leather Shoe Creases

Are creases in leather shoes normal? Yes, almost all leather shoes crease, and it’s completely normal. Leather is a natural material that moves and bends as you walk. The front of the shoe, especially around the toe area, flexes with every step. That’s where creases usually appear first.

Creases can also show up faster if the shoes get wet, are worn too often without rest, or don’t fit properly. Moisture, pressure, and motion all cause the leather to fold.

But here’s the good news: most creases can be reduced or removed if you treat them the right way. Knowing how to fix creases in leather shoes can help you keep them looking smooth and well-maintained.

And if your shoes are made like Koio’s, with premium certified leather and carefully shaped lasts, they're already built to resist deep creases better than most.

How to Get Creases Out of Leather Shoes

If your leather shoes are starting to show deep lines, don’t worry, there are easy ways to bring them back to life.

1. With Shoe Trees (Most Recommended)

One of the easiest ways to reduce creases is by using shoe trees, especially right after wearing your shoes.

Shoe trees help hold the shoe’s shape while the leather cools and dries. Over time, this gently pushes out light creases and keeps the leather from folding in the same spot over and over again. Cedar shoe trees are best because they also absorb moisture and odor.

Here’s how to use them:

• Insert shoe trees immediately after taking off your shoes
• Let the shoes rest for at least 24 hours before wearing them again
• Use them daily to maintain the shape and prevent deep creasing

Our cedar shoe trees are crafted from wood that absorbs moisture, neutralizes unwanted odors, and helps maintain the structure of your Koios over time. Simply place them inside your shoes when you’re not wearing them.

If your shoes are made with Koio’s signature lasts, shoe trees are the perfect complement, working together to protect the fit, form, and finish of every pair.

2. With a Heat Gun or Blow Dryer

If you’re dealing with mild to moderate creases, controlled heat can help relax the leather so it can return to its original shape. A blow dryer is perfect for beginners, while a heat gun may be better suited for those with experience.

Here’s how to do it safely:

1. Insert shoe trees or stuff the shoes with socks or paper to hold their shape.
2. Set the heat gun or blow dryer to low heat—never use high or direct heat.
3. Hold it 6–8 inches away and move in circular motions over the creased area.
4. As the leather warms, massage the crease gently with your fingers.
5. Once warm, let the shoes cool down with the shoe trees still inside.

This method works best on high-quality leather that’s built to hold shape, like Koio’s structured sneakers, which respond well to light heat treatments without losing their form.

Always be cautious. If the heat feels too strong on your hand, it’s too much for your shoes.

3. With an Iron & Cotton Cloth

Using an iron is a popular method to get rid of deeper creases, but it’s the riskiest, too. The trick is to never touch the leather directly and to keep the cloth slightly damp, not soaked.

Here’s the step-by-step:

1. Insert a shoe tree to hold the structure.
2. Set your iron to low heat (around 60–80°F) and turn off steam.
3. Dampen a clean cotton cloth so it’s moist, not dripping.
4. Place the cloth over the crease.
5. Gently press the iron for 2–3 seconds, then lift.
6. Move the cloth, flip it, and repeat for up to 30–40 seconds.
7. Remove the cloth, wipe away any moisture, and let the shoe cool fully with the tree still inside.

Only use this method when necessary. Too much moisture or heat can cause long-term damage, especially with shoes that aren’t built to last.

Koio’s leather is durable and well-protected, but treating it gently is still the best way to keep your shoes looking new.

What NOT to Do: Common Mistakes That Ruin Leather

Knowing how to get creases out of leather shoes is one thing, but knowing what not to do is just as important. The wrong technique can do more harm than good and even ruin a high-quality pair beyond repair.

Avoid these common mistakes:

• Using direct, high heat: Never apply an iron or heat gun directly to the leather. High temperatures can burn or dry out the material, causing it to crack.
• Soaking the shoes: Too much water weakens the leather and leaves it vulnerable to warping, fading, or permanent damage. A lightly damp cloth is enough—never soak the shoe.
• Stretching or forcing the leather: Forcing the leather into shape with stiff inserts or manual pulling can leave it misshapen. Gentle pressure and the right tools (like cedar shoe trees) work best.
• Trying DIY hacks with harsh products: Avoid household chemicals or unverified online tricks. Some products may stain, dry out, or permanently alter the finish, especially on high-quality leather like Koio’s.

Protect your investment by using only trusted, leather-safe methods. A little care goes a long way.

How to Prevent Future Creases for Leather Shoes

Creases may be inevitable over time, but the way you care for your shoes can make all the difference. With a few simple habits, you can help preserve the structure, shape, and clean lines of every pair.

• Use cedar shoe trees daily: They maintain the silhouette, absorb moisture, and gently ease out surface wrinkles.
• Rotate your shoes: Let them rest at least a full day between wears to recover their shape.
• Store them properly: Keep them upright, stuffed, and away from heat or humidity.
• Choose breathable socks: Reducing interior moisture helps keep the leather firm and fresh.
• Be mindful of movement: Avoid crouching or heavy flexing that puts pressure on the toe box.

Built with precision and intention, Koio shoes are designed to age beautifully. With the right care, they’ll carry you forward, creased less, and styled more.

For more care tips, visit our Shoe Care Guide.

How Koio Designs Around the Problem

Our shoes are made to hold their shape, even with everyday wear. We use Leather Working Group-certified leather that’s durable, flexible, and resists deep creasing. Each pair is shaped on custom lasts that reduce pressure in areas that tend to crease, like the toe box. The fit stays supportive, the structure stays clean, and the comfort lasts all day.

Koio blends modern design, Italian craftsmanship, and everyday comfort. We visited 34 factories before choosing our partner in Florence, where each shoe is handcrafted using locally sourced leather, suede, and recycled materials. It takes 42 skilled craftspeople to finish every pair.

They’re designed to look polished with tailoring and relaxed with denim, so they fit any moment, and they hold up beautifully over time.

Final Thoughts & Footwear TLC Routine

Creases are part of wearing real leather, but with a few good habits, you can keep your shoes looking clean and well cared for. Using cedar shoe trees, rotating your pairs, storing them properly, and wearing breathable socks all help reduce stress on the leather.

Regular care doesn’t have to be complicated. Light cleaning, occasional conditioning, and letting your shoes rest between wears go a long way in keeping them fresh.

If you ever need to smooth things out, remember the safe methods you’ve learned here. Whether it’s shoe trees, gentle heat, or a cloth and iron, now you know how to get creases out of leather shoes without damaging them.

Koio shoes are worth the effort. They’re built to last, easy to maintain, and made to look better with time. Explore our full collection of handcrafted men’s leather sneakers and see why Koio is the everyday pair you’ll keep coming back to.