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Leather, Ink, and Miscellaneous: Wash

To Polish Tan Shoes. - Wash the shoes clean with a sponge and warm water. Wipe with a dry cloth and let dry. Then rub freely with the inside of a banana peel. Wipe carefully with a soft cloth and polish with cotton flannel. There is considerable coloring matter and tannic acid in banana peel, and this polish is fully as satisfactory as any tan dressing on the market.

Orange juice is also excellent for the same purpose.

Or shave a tablespoonful of white soap in a little lukewarm water; add a pinch of powdered borax and two or three drops of ammonia. Apply this with a nailbrush, scrubbing vigorously, rinse with lukewarm water, and let dry.

To darken tan shoes, apply ammonia with a clean flannel cloth. Then polish as usual.