I have purchased several pairs of Allen Edmonds and others used. I wipe out the shoe with a clorox wipe, dont get any residue on the leather. This will disinfect the interior. Let it dry for a day. Polish as usual to restore shime and nourish leather. AE and Alden can recraft them and replace the cork lining and sole and heel. Don't buy shoes that are badly mis-shapen and have stains.
I kind of enjoy the challenge of taking on something kind of beat up but I'm with you, in general.
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