How to Clean Leather Boots and Keep Them Looking New

Leather boots are a wardrobe staple that can last for years when properly cared for. With the right techniques, you can keep your leather boots looking fresh and new. This article will provide tips on how to clean leather boots and maintain them so they stand the test of time.

Supplies Needed for Cleaning Leather Boots

Before cleaning your boots, gather the proper supplies:

Leather cleaner or mild soap: Use a specialty leather cleaner or a mild soap to gently clean the boots. Avoid regular household cleaners.
Soft brush or cloth: Use a soft brush or microfiber cloth to lightly scrub the boots. Avoid anything abrasive.
Leather conditioner: Conditioning helps moisturize and protects the leather.
Old toothbrush: For cleaning crevices and seams.
Small bowl of water
Clean cloths or microfiber towels

Remove Surface Dirt and Debris

The first step is removing loose dirt, dust, salt stains, and other debris from the boots:

Carefully wipe down the boots with a clean, dry cloth. This lifts away any dried mud or loose dirt.
Use a soft brush to gently brush away stuck-on dust and salt stains. Avoid scrubbing too hard.
Blot any wet stains with a paper towel to absorb extra moisture. Don’t rub wet stains.

This helps prevent the debris from getting pushed deeper into the leather when cleaning.

Mix a Gentle Leather Cleaning Solution

Create a mild cleaning solution for the boots:

In a small bowl, mix a small amount of leather cleaner or mild, unscented soap with lukewarm water.
Use a minimal amount of soap – usually a teaspoon or less per cup of water. Too much can strip oils from the leather.
Avoid using regular detergents or household cleaners. Stick to specialty leather cleaners or mild soap.

Gently Clean the Leather

With the cleaning solution ready, gently clean the surface of the boots:

Using a soft cloth dampened with the solution, gently wipe down the boots. Avoid saturating the leather.
Use a circular motion and focus on any visibly dirty areas. Don’t scrub hard.
Use an old toothbrush and cleaning solution to gently clean crevices, stitches, and seams.
Rinse the soap off by wiping with a clean, damp cloth.
Dry thoroughly with a microfiber towel, pressing gently to absorb moisture. Make sure no water remains.

Repeat this process as needed, using a fresh solution each time, until the boots look clean. For tough stains, allow the solution to soak briefly before wiping.

Remove Salt Stains from Leather Boots

For dried salt stains:

Create a solution of equal parts white vinegar and water.
Dip a clean cloth in the vinegar solution and dab the stains for 2-3 minutes.
Let the boots fully air dry. The vinegar will naturally dissipate.
Once dry, clean and condition the boots as usual. The vinegar helps break down the salt.

Condition and Polish Leather Boots

Once cleaned, applying conditioner helps moisturize leather boots:

Use a small amount of leather conditioner, applying directly to the boots.
Gently rub in the conditioner using a clean, soft cloth in circular motions.
Avoid over-conditioning, which can damage leather over time.
Let the conditioner soak in for at least 10 minutes before polishing or wearing boots.
Buff the boots with a soft cloth to create a subtle shine.
Use a leather polish occasionally for extra protection and sheen. Apply minimally with a soft cloth.

Key Tips for Keeping Leather Boots Looking New

Follow these tips to maintain the quality of leather boots:

Store properly: Keep boots on a shoe rack or tree to retain shape. Avoid direct heat or sun which can dry leather.
Weatherproof often: Use weatherproofing sprays to protect from salt, water, and stains during winter. Re-apply as needed.
Rotate boots: Switch between pairs to allow leather to rest and retain shape.
Clean after each wear: A quick wipe down keeps dirt from building up.
Fix scuffs: Gently buff minor scuffs with a cloth and conditioner. Use shoe polish for deeper scuffs.
Disinfect interiors: Use a small amount of disinfectant spray or rubbing alcohol on the inner lining to prevent odors. Allow to fully dry.
Use cedar shoe trees: Cedar absorbs moisture and retains the boot’s shape between wears.

Proper leather care goes a long way in extending the life of your favorite boots. With routine cleaning and conditioning, your leather boots will continue looking pristine for many seasons to come.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cleaning Leather Boots

How often should you clean leather boots?

It’s best to clean leather boots after every wear. Give them a quick wipe down with a damp cloth to remove dirt, salt stains, and other debris that can break down the leather over time. For deeper cleans, clean every 2-3 months with proper leather cleaning supplies.

Can you put leather boots in the washing machine?

No, do not machine wash or dry leather boots. The agitation and heat can cause the leather to crack and dry out. Always hand wash boots gently using a small amount of mild soap and a soft cloth.

What home remedies clean leather boots?

For light cleaning, mix a solution of equal parts water and white vinegar. For a deeper clean, make a mild soap solution with a small amount of dish or castile soap and warm water. Use an old toothbrush to clean crevices. Avoid household cleaners which can strip and damage leather.

How do you soften stiff leather boots?

Apply a leather conditioner to clean boots and work it in well using your fingers to massage and loosen the leather fibers. Allow the conditioner to soak in for at least 10 minutes before wearing. Repeat regularly to keep leather supple.

Can you use coconut oil on leather boots?

Yes, coconut oil is an effective conditioner for leather boots. Apply a small amount and let soak in overnight. Then buff with a soft cloth. The oil moisturizes leather to prevent drying and cracking. Re-apply every few months.

Conclusion

Regular, gentle cleaning paired with conditioning is the key to keeping your favorite leather boots looking pristine for years. Be sure to use specialty leather care products and avoid harsh household cleaners or abrasives. With the proper techniques, those leather boots will become comfortable, molded staples in your closet for seasons to come.