Thanks to convenient innovations in cleaning products, most stores now carry liquid shoe polish. Sometimes stores run out of liquid polish when you need them, and all they have on stock are cans of the old-fashioned, but very reliable, cans of shoe polish wax. Believe it or not, you can shine your shoes to an mirror-like finish with wax better than polish, if you know how to use the product.

1. Wipe off excess dirt, dust and grime from a leather shoe using a soft, clean cotton rag.

2. Use the head of an old toothbrush to pick out a small amount of shoe polish wax from the can, and apply it to the shoe with short, straight, even strokes.

3. Using a shoe polish brush with short nylon bristles, polish the shoe with smart, quick, firm strokes. While a circular pattern works for some people, the best shine comes from straight strokes.

4. Allow the shoe to dry for a few minutes, and give it a short brushing afterwards.

5. Use an old woolen sock to buff out the shoe to a smooth, glossy, mirror-like finish.

The next time the store runs out of liquid shoe polish, don’t get intimidated by the stuff your dad used to shine his shoes. With the right technique, you might even get really comfortable using shoe polish wax.