How to Clean Leather Boots The Right Way
, by Ed Stone, 5 min reading time
Fear not, fellow boot enthusiasts! In this expert guide, we'll reveal the secrets to cleaning leather boots like a professional. So grab your favorite pair, roll up your sleeves, and let's embark on this leather-cleaning adventure together in this expert guide!
Materials Needed:
- Soft cloth
- Clean towel
- Soft brush
- Leather cleaner
- Leather conditioner
- Shoe polish
- Shoe tree
Step 1: Prep For Success
Whether you are wearing men’s boots or women’s boots, prepare your boots for the grand treatment before diving headfirst into how to clean leather shoes. Start by removing the laces and gently wiping your boots with a soft cloth. This will remove any loose dirt or dust that has made itself comfortable on the surface of your leather boots. It's all about starting with a clean canvas!
Step 2: Combat Stubborn Stains
Those pesky stains have no place on your new leather boots. The process is simple to banish dirt and stains from smooth leather boots. If you are looking to get some dried debris off your leather boots, grab a damp cloth and apply a small amount of Bickmore Bick 1 Leather Cleaner. Gently rub the stained area in a circular motion.
If a deeper cleaning is needed, wash your leather boots with saddle soap or a gently diluted soap like baby shampoo with plenty of water. Then, gently scrub the exterior of the boots with a soft nylon brush or microfiber cloth and rinse all the soap and dirt out as well. Blot up excess moisture with a towel and dry them at room temperature. Heat can cause your leather shoes to dry or crack, so it is essential to let them dry naturally.1
Step 3: Revive & Restore
After battling stains, it's time to restore the luster of your leather boots. For smooth leather boots, apply a generous amount of our Bickmore Bick 4 Leather Conditioner to a soft cloth and gently massage it in circular motions. If you own a heavier work-type leather, try out our Trade Street Mink Oil or our Dr. Martens Wonder Balsam.
These nourishing treatments will keep the leather supple and prevent it from drying out or cracking. Your boots will thank you for the pampering session!
Step 4: Tackle Scuffs & Bring On The Shine
Reach for the shoe polish for those unsightly blemishes on your leather boots. Apply a small amount of polish that matches the color of your boots onto a soft cloth and work it into the scuffed area. Buff the leather using a horsehair brush in brisk back-and-forth motions, to reveal a glorious shine.
Step 5: Reattach The Laces
Once the boots are completely dry and polished, it’s time to reattach the laces. Again, make sure the laces are tight enough to provide support but not too tight to cause discomfort.
Additional Tips For Cleaning Leather Boots:
- Invest in a Leather Care Kit – A well-stocked leather care kit is like having a secret arsenal of boot-cleaning weapons. It usually contains a leather cleaner, conditioner, and other goodies to keep your boots in prime condition. If you’re cleaning suede boots, be sure to have all the proper tools handy for that specific type of leather.
- Use Shoe Trees – To maintain the shape of your leather boots and prevent unwanted creases, insert shoe trees when you're not wearing them.2 These wooden wonders will help your boots retain their form and be ready for action whenever needed.
- Protect from the Elements – Make sure to waterproof your leather boots to shield them from rain, snow, or any other surprises Mother Nature throws your way, especially if your boots are either men’s construction boots or women’s construction boots and if you are mostly wearing your boots outside.
- Regular Cleaning is Key – Don't wait for stains and scuffs to become permanent residents on your leather boots. Regular cleaning and conditioning will keep them looking fresh and ensure their longevity.
- Brush Away Loose Dirt – Before each cleaning session gently brush your boots with a soft-bristled brush to remove any loose dirt or debris. This will make the cleaning process much more effective.
Discover Quality Leather With Boot World
Learning how to take care of leather boots is an art form that requires the right tools, a sprinkle of patience, and a dash of dedication. But, by following these expert steps and tips, your leather boots will be looking brand new all season long.
At Boot World, we offer a variety of cleaning products and accessories to help you keep your leather boots looking and performing at their best. Whether you’re wanting to learn how to stretch leather boots or extra tips for cleaning, our experts can provide tips and recommendations for proper boot care and ensure they remain in top condition. Shop Boot World today and get your shoes looking shiny in no time.
Sources:
- Rana Cheikha. Best Ways to Protect Your Summer Shoes. https://ranacheikha.com/blogs/the-shoe-advisor-leather-shoe-care/best-ways-to-protect-your-summer-shoes
- Becket Simonon. What is a Shoe Tree and Why Should You Use Them? https://www.beckettsimonon.com/blogs/resources/what-is-a-shoe-tree-and-why-should-you-use-them
Reviewed By:
Ed Stone brings over 45 years of footwear knowledge and passion to his role as President of Boot World, a family-owned company and an industry leader in safety and occupational footwear. A second generation "shoe dog” Ed's footwear knowledge is unparalleled, serving as an informal advisor for some of the worlds largest footwear brands including Wolverine, Timberland PRO, and Reebok Works.
A lifelong Southern California resident, and ardent conservationist, Ed enjoys hiking and open water swimming.