The Alsa shoe tree is made of American cedar and helps preserve your finest leather shoes. The fresh-scented and absorbent power of cedar deodorizes your shoes while protecting the leather from moisture damage. The Alsa shoe tree helps hold the shoe rigid, which maintains the overall shape of the shoe and minimizes the wrinkles that naturally develop from use. These shoe trees were designed to closely fit the instep and heel shape of your shoe, while the split toe ensures a snug fit preventing cracks and creases in the toe area. The cedar is long-lasting and can be easily refreshed for scent with a light sanding. Sometimes white crystals which is a type of Myron will appear due to the change in heat and humidity. This is a perfectly natural aspect of the fresh cedar. To remove the crystals, simply wipe with a dry cloth