Secret Weapons: Instant Shoe Shine

The box you see here (about five inches long) contains a large sponge attached to the lid.  The sponge, which feels nearly dry to the touch, contains some sort of shoe-shine-like chemicals.  Look, I don't know exactly how it works, but it really, really works.  These things cost between $5 and $15 and are worth it at any price in that range.  You just sort of grab the lid and work the sponge over the surface of your leather shoes, belt, coat, boots, you name it.  In under a minute, shiny leather will have its shine renewed, and matte leather will take on a healthy, moist look. 

It also helps with small patches of that white residue that appears on leather that has gotten wet and subsequently dried without being moisturized.

When you don't have time for a shoe shine, this will definitely do the trick.

You can find these (brands vary) at Jos. A. Bank, department stores, Filene's, Johnston & Murphy...even CVS sometimes.