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How Do I Clean Boots?

How Do I Clean Boots?

Oct 20, 2021

Boots are an essential wardrobe investment. Once you buy a pair, you’ll want to make that footwear last as long as possible. Boots can stand up to snow and salt, rain and dirt, but to keep them looking like new, make sure you maintain those tough leather work boots, sheepskin styles and your lower cut, brushed suede booties, too.

Keep your boots in tip-top shape year after year, whether you’re rocking some fluffy UGG Boots to class, a pair of Clarks booties to work or those thick-treaded Timberland Wheat boots on a date night with Hibbett | City Gear’s guide to cleaning and protecting each type of boot:

How to Clean Leather Boots

Leather boots work hard in all types of weather conditions. To clean them:

  • Gently wipe away dirt, either with a soft-bristle brush, clean cloth or T-shirt.
  • To get rid of grease stains, sprinkle cornstarch or baking soda on the spot, and gently rub with a soft cloth. Let sit for several hours to absorb grease, and then wipe off with a cloth.
  • For general cleaning, dip a cloth in clean water and then dip it in baking soda. Wring it out and gently erase any scuffs or surface scratches. 
  • Wipe any residue off your leather boots with a clean, damp cloth. 
  • Massage a leather conditioner into the boot’s surface to prevent cracking. Remove shoelaces and get in the boot’s crevices. 
  • Buff the leather dry with another soft cloth.
  • Polish leather boots, buffing to a sheen. 

How to Clean Nubuck Boots at Home (and Suede, Too)

Nubuck leather’s soft texture gives it a suede-like finish, so you’ll use the same method to clean both materials. To clean suede boots and nubuck:

  • Use a brush to loosen any dirt from the surface. 
  • Gently erase any stains with a suede eraser. 
  • Remove deeper stains using minimal liquid, as it can damage nubuck and suede boots. We recommend a foam cleanser designed specifically for these materials. If you don’t have that on hand, take a soft cloth with either vinegar or alcohol and lightly blot stubborn spots. (Consider a patch test first to ensure you don’t ruin the material.) 
  • Use a microfiber towel and blot to remove any moisture. 
  • Air-dry the boots overnight. 

Looking for a simple grab-and-go solution? Try out this Timberland Nubuck Leather Boot Kit!

How to Clean Sheepskin Boots

You regularly wash the insoles of your UGG Boots to keep them clean and fluffy. Treat the outer sheepskin to regular cleanings as well. Here’s how: 

  • Use a soft-bristle brush to rid the boot’s surface of dirt and dust. 
  • Lightly moisten the boot with a damp sponge or soft cloth. 
  • If using a cleaner for your UGG Boots, apply a small amount to a sponge and gently scrub. 
  • Fill the boots with newspaper and let them dry for at least 24 hours. 
  • Once completely dry, use a suede brush and brush fibers in a single direction. 

Protect & Maintain Your Boots

Once you’ve cleaned your leather or suede boots, you’ll want to take steps to keep them looking and feeling fresh:

  • To ensure they last many years, protect leather boots as soon as you bring them home from the store. For instant protection from the weather, apply a water-repellent coating.
  • After each wear, clean gently with a brush or rag. 
  • Every so often, remove the shoelaces and clean and condition the entire boot. This allows you to reach all the crevices.
  • Try only wearing your boots every few days, and allow them to dry out completely in between wears.
  • Store all boots in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. 

Ready to stock up on a new pair of two for the 2022 holiday season? Check out our picks of must-have boots and fleece faves for fall and winter!

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