I recently started resoling and tipping shoes. Besides allowing me to have those perfect boots a few seasons more, it also cuts down on waste created by buying new. When I started keeping older shoes for longer amounts of time though, I did notice more scuffs. With instructions that read “only to use in a well ventilated area” and “keep away from kids and animals,” I was leery of shoe polish. In explaining my dilemma to a friend, she told me an interesting fact – one I hope to use on Jeopardy some day – you can polish shoes with a banana peel.
How: First, eat your banana! Next, cut the peel into strips – you can normally get three or four. Then, buff your shoes with the inside of the peel. You can do this on leather and man-made materials alike. Finally, wipe the shoe down with a cloth (use a towel or another reusable cloth as paper towels, in addition to being disposable, will leave bits behind).
Why: As noted, shoe polish contains chemical substances which can be absorbed through the skin or inhaled. It can also stain your skin for a period of time and cause irritation to the eye if there is direct contact, whereas a banana is natural and delicious! And the skin is still compostable after a shine.
Does this really work? Has anyone tried it?