The shoes are scratched. Scratches are a common problem for everyone — from white sneakers and expensive leather shoes to athletic shoes. Scratches degrade the appearance and value of shoes. The good news: most scratches can be repaired — from touch-ups at home to professional repainting. This article guides you on how to treat scratched shoes according to material and when to take them to a professional repair shop.

Causes and types of scratches · Home treatment based on material · When should you go to the shop? · Restoration price list · Prevent scratches · Q&A
Causes and types of scratches
Understanding the type of scratch helps in choosing the right treatment:
- Surface scratches (minor scratches) — Only the finish/gloss is visible, the underlying material isn't yet exposed. Easy to handle.
- Deep scratches, chipped paint/skin — The base layer is a different color; it needs touching up or repainting.
- White scratches on the skin — The coating is torn, commonly seen on smooth/glossy leather.
- Scratches/scratches on the rubber midsole — The white sole is yellowed, blackened, or scratched.
Common causes include rubbing against hard objects, bumping into things while walking, stacking shoes, and improper storage.
How to treat scratched shoes at home (according to material)
Smooth leather shoes
Wipe clean, then use. skin cream Apply evenly to the scratched area (the warmth of your hand helps the skin absorb the cream). Use only if the scratch is colored. scratch cover/polish in the same shade, polish it again. Test it in an inconspicuous area first.
Suede shoes
Use suede brush + specialized eraser Brush gently in one direction to even out the surface. Avoid water and harsh chemicals.
Canvas sneakers
Small scratches are usually dirt—cleaning them will make them less noticeable. Faded areas need repainting.
Rubber midsole
Remove stains and clean thoroughly; if there are many scratches/yellowing, repaint the base Make it evenly white.
See also How to clean leather shoes at home and yellow stain remover for white shoes.
When should I take it to the repair shop?
DIY is only suitable for minor scratches. When shoes get... Deep scratches, extensive paint/skin chipping, color bleeding, expensive designer shoes. — should take it to a repair shop. repaint or apply a protective layer, avoiding self-treatment which may cause smudging/damage to the surface. Instructions for handling within the group. shoe repair & customization: Repaint, touch-up color, leather patching, sole painting — restoring scratched shoes to near-original condition.
Price list for restoring scratched shoes (excluding VAT)
| Category | Price |
|---|---|
| Touch up color / cover minor scratches | Contact |
| Shoe sole paint | 400,000 VND |
| Shoe upper paintDepending on color and area | 500,000 – 700,000 VND |
| Paint both the base and the body. | 800,000 – 1,000,000 VND |
| Apply a skin dressing to the scraped/torn area. | 250,000 – 350,000 VND |
See full price list or shoe repainting service.
How to prevent shoes from getting scratched
- Spray nano surface protection For new shoes (leather & fabric).
- Do not stack shoes; use separate box/rack, Stuff with paper to maintain its shape.
- Avoid bumping into hard objects or wall edges when walking.
- Regular leather conditioning will keep the surface soft and less prone to cracking.
- Treat minor scratches early — it's cheaper than letting them get deeper.
See also characteristics of different skin types to provide proper care.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can shoes that are scratched be restored?
Yes. Minor scratches can be polished/conditioned at home; deep scratches, peeling leather/paint require repainting or leather restoration. HD can restore most cases, including designer shoes.
How much does it cost to restore scratched shoes?
Depending on the extent and material: touch-ups/polishing start from several hundred thousand dong; repainting the sole costs 400,000 dong, and the upper costs 500,000–700,000 dong. A price quote will be provided after inspecting the shoes.
Will the white scratches on leather shoes disappear?
White scratches on the leather are usually caused by scratches in the finish. Conditioning the leather and touching up with the correct shade will fade/remove them. Deep scratches require a restorative polish for that area.
Is it possible to repair scuffed shoes at home?
Minor scratches can be fixed (use leather conditioner, scratch concealer, or suede eraser). For deep scratches or expensive shoes, it's best to take them to a professional to avoid color bleeding or damage to the surface.
Can sneakers with scratched/stained rubber soles be repaired?
Okay. HD will clean, remove stains, and repaint the midsole to restore the white color evenly.
Shoes scratched? HD restores them to like-new condition.
Repaint · Touch-up color · Leather restoration · Free delivery within 2km · 90-day warranty
See more: Shoe repair & customization · Repaint the shoes. · Book