Boot Care 101

Looking after your boots to ensure they look like new for longer is easy with our introduction to optimal boot care. It is worth your while to invest in a pair of good quality leather boots in a classic style that will never go out of fashion. But there is no point in spending a lot of money on a gorgeous pair of boots if can’t be bothered to get a care kit and take care of them properly. Follow these tips to keep your boots in tip top condition.

• Clean and polish. If you do nothing else, regularly cleaning and polishing your boots will maintain the leather, keeping it clean and supple. Polish also help the boots to remain resistant to water, which would otherwise damage and stain the leather.

• Store your boots properly. Allow the boots to air between wears instead of placing them straight in the cupboard. By inserting boot shapers into tall boots, you can help to maintain their shape as well as better enable air flow through the boot.

• Use a non abrasive pencil eraser to remove scuff marks on your leather boots, as part of the care process. Clean the stitching with a toothbrush. Use a non-metallic scrubbing brush and some water to clean the rest of the boot.

• Basic boot care and maintenance needn’t require a lot of expensive products. Use a damp sponge to wipe off dry dust and wipe of all mud immediately or at least while still damp. Saddle soap can be used to help clean and restore leather, but keep in mind that it may ruin the finish.

• Use cedar shoe trees inserted into the toes of the boots to retain their shape and keep them from cracking.

• While the leather is still damp be sure to use a good quality leather conditioner that you can purchase at any shop offering boot care supplies. The conditioner will replace the leather’s natural oils, which will help it remain in good condition. After you have applied the product be sure to leave it overnight to dry and then buff the leather to a shine.

• Keep in mind that leather boots should be waxed or oiled in order to maintain their ability to repel water. Wet leather stretches and weakens, and when it dries it becomes brittle – using a shoe hook can help it to dry out properly and is an important part of your leather boot care.