text: The product fails to include detailed instructions for proper application. Do the shoes need to be cleaned first? How much product do I use? How often should I use it? There is only a short description on the tin: &#34;Apply a small amount of the balsam onto the leather using a sponge. Work well into the seams. Do not use on suede.&#34; After some research, I decided to clean my boots with baby wipes and water, then dry them before applying the thinnest layer of shoe polish onto the sponge. I dab the sponge over the boots, spread the balsam out in circular motions, and let the shoes dry. It absorbs quickly in about an hour or two in warm weather. Over time, the black sponge provided in the tin tends to wear down and crumble when going over rougher stitches and seams.  I use Wonder Basalm once a month to restore shine to my smooth black Dr. Martens, which I wear as work boots. I don't think it conditions very well on shoes for heavy duty use--my docs are already cracking at the back ankles and base of toes. Granted, it's not the best quality leather, but the cracking is bad. By &#34;heavy duty use,&#34; I mean being on your feet for over 8 hours a day and constantly crouching and bending your feet.