Cleaning Leather boots 101: How to clean leather boots to keep them new

Leather boots, the must-have staple of all types of wardrobe, whether work or casual, are the most entitled to cleaning and caring as they are exposed to dirt and grime all the time. If you have a pair of leather boots, cleaning and maintaining them must be one of your weekly tasks. Cleaning leather boots requires utmost care and attention as it enhances their lifespan and makes them last for long. In this article, we will guide you on the most effective yet easy cleaning tips on how to clean leather boots.

Owning a leather jacket or boots does not necessarily mean that you’re a fashion fanatic. Leather jackets and boots are an excellent investment for your work wardrobe as well. The durability of this material is compelling enough to make you want to save for buying a chic and stylish set of leather boots.

Now, you can wear your boots like a pro and make them last longer with the following tips.

Cleaning your leather boots

1.Basic cleaning

The first and the essential thing before applying any cleaning method is to make sure to wipe off all the dirt and grime that you can by simply using a soft and dry cloth or a shoe brush. Remove the shoelaces and put them in warm soap liquid to wash them. Then hang them to dry thoroughly.

Additional tip: be sure to check the label to find out whether your boots are finished or unfinished leather. For the former type, you can use a soft cloth soaked in mild soap to clean the leather surface followed by wiping off with a dry cloth. On the other hand, for the latter, you might have to visit a shoe store to get saddle soap.

This does the basic superficial cleaning of your leather boots irrespective of the types of stains your boots have endured. When you’re done with this, you can move on to extensive cleaning methods. 

2.Removing water and salt stains

Vinegar or lemon juice mixed with water makes an excellent cleaning agent for water stains (Mix 1 part vinegar and 2 parts water to make the solution). Always use a soft cloth to wipe off the leather with this mixture.

Rubbing alcohol used in a minimal amount can also do the work.

3.Grease Stains

If you’ve accidentally shared your saucy burger with your boots or have any other form or grease stains on your boots, then don’t fret. You can easily clean those stains with baking soda. Baking soda works like magic for absorbing oil. Sprinkle some on the spot and let it sit overnight. Wipe off the next day with a soft cloth to unveil the magic. 

Bonus tip: you can also use baking soda for removing odor and foul smell from your boots.

4.Removing scuffs

Even if you love your leather boots like crazy, you cannot prevent them from getting scuffs or scratches. If your boots have endured some scrapes then worry not; we have the solution for you. Toothpaste works wonders for leather in this regard. Squeeze a little bit onto your shoes and take an old toothbrush that you don’t intend to use anymore.

Let the scrubbing begin!

Precaution: be gentle.

5.Shining your boots

Maintaining the chic shine and class of your leather boots cannot be done with cleaning only. That is why, when we tell you about how to shine and buff your leather boots, you got to take notes!

For keeping your boots’ shine intact, use a cream polish of the same color after cleaning your boots. However, before applying, check the cream polish in an unnoticeable or hidden spot for suitability. Leave the polish for a while and then buff with a soft, clean cloth to get the best results.

6.Cleaning suede boots

Although made out of leather, suede boots require cleaning methods that are a tad bit different than the cleaning of other leather boots. For suede shoes, it is always recommended to use the special suede brush to clean off dust and dirt. Never use the brush in transverse directions; instead, use it in one single direction only.

Pro tip: always let your suede boots dry completely before you clean them. Use paper towels to dry them if air drying is taking longer or is not possible. 

You won’t believe what you’ve got in your office drawer to remove scuffs and scratches from suede shoes. With a pencil eraser, you can easily get rid of scuffs from suede. However, for suede shoes, it is advisable to do this before you clean with the brush.

Conditioning your leather boots

 Over time, your leather boots might endure visible cracks. It happens when the moisture from leather escapes due to exposure to the environment. There’s no way to stop that from happening; however, you can delay it by conditioning your leather boots from time to time.

For starters, do the initial cleaning regimen. Then take a good leather conditioner and apply it on the shoes with the help of a soft, clean cloth. Do not forget to test the conditioner at a hidden spot before applying to the whole shoe to check for any drastic changes in the color.

Don’t be too rigorous and keep your motions gentle and in circular patterns. Dry off the excess conditioner and leave the boots to dry off.

Condition your leather boots at least once a month to have their shine last longer.

Final word

Now that you’ve noted the best and easiest cleaning tips for your leather boots, you can rock them like never before!

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