How to Protect Winter Boots Feb 6th 2013, 22:00 Winter boots go through a lot––they are subjected to rain, snow, mud, dirty snow, salt, and a range of other street dirt and chemicals. By winter's end, poorly cared for boots will repay your neglect by falling apart or simply looking shabby. Here is a way to keep them in better shape throughout winter so that with any luck, they'll see you through a few winters yet. - Protect your new boots. Always spray new boots with a waterproofing product that increases their water resistance even before you start to wear them. (The manufacturer will often recommend a product.) Keep using this product regularly to enhance the original protective qualities. Boots that do not have this protective layer added will not last as long.
- Some wearers recommend using saddle soap to maintain leather boots long term.[1] Saddle soap contains protective, waterproofing and softening agents, namely lanolin, neatfoot oil and glycerol. To use, wipe the boot over with a damp cloth. Then create a lather with the saddle soap and water using the cleaning cloth. Apply the lather to the boot, allow for slight drying, then wipe off any remaining lather. Be aware that it can darken some leather, so test spot first.[1]
- Clean salt stains immediately. If you live where it snows and where salt is used on the streets to keep them clear of snow, your boots are going to pick up the salt. Salt stains mar the look of boots and weaken the fabric. If there are metallic parts to your boots (zippers, hooks, etc.), these will begin to rust if the salt is not removed. For the best results, always clean off any salt stain as soon as you spot it. Use the cleaning agent recommended by your boots' manufacturer (desalting agent), or see the suggestions below.
- Still wet salt lines can be quickly fixed by wiping over the leather boot with a damp, warm cloth. Leave to dry in the mudroom (not near a heater). To retain the shape of the boot if it's not able to do so on its own, stuff with newspaper or other scrap paper.
- Dried-on salt lines can be removed with commercial products or you can make your own easily (for leather boots). Combine equal parts of vinegar and water to make a liquid solution. Dip a cleaning rag into the solution, then wipe around the salt line. To finish, use a clean damp cloth to wipe off the solution and any remaining salt line. Wipe with a dry towel, then leave to dry away from direct heat. When dry, buff.[2] (This method is not suitable for suede boots.)
- For suede boots, clean marks off with an eraser or sand gently with an emery board.[2][3] To restore flattened nap, use a clean toothbrush or towel to brush it up or steam gently over the spout of a just boiled kettle.[2][3]
- Keep the boots polished and clean. If your boots are leather, keep them well polished. All types of boots should be kept clean. A regular wipe-down with warm water for many synthetic boots will help remove dirt and other encrusted elements.
- Scuff marks can be removed from leather boots using baking soda.[3] Simply dip a damp cloth in baking soda and wipe over the scuff marks. Wipe clean, let dry and buff.
- Oil stains can be removed from suede boots by rubbing as soon as possible with either cornmeal or talcum powder. Gently brush off with a towel after leaving for a few hours to soak up the grime.
- Boot liners that can be removed should be washed separately by hand or in the washing machine (see manufacturer's instructions). Make sure they're completely dry before re-inserting into the boots.
- Store winter boots clean and dry. At winter's end, never store boots without cleaning them first and ensuring that they are completely dry. Otherwise, you risk finding moldy, cracked and possibly ruined boots next winter. Stains left too long may set permanently and weaken the boot. And mold that grows on one boot can cross-contaminate other shoes, boots and items of clothing stored in the same vicinity.
- Do not store boots in plastic bags. Suede and leather need to "breathe" and plastic bags restrict this ability, drying out the boot and trapping mold. Better choices include pillowcases, fabric shoe bags and cloth bags.
- Store boots away from direct light or heat sources. Direct light can fade the boots, while direct heat can cause them to dry out and crack.
- Suede isn't an ideal material for winter boots if you live in a very wet climate. While the boots can be protected by commercial products, chemicals in these can weaken the fabric after a time. Moreover, dampness and salt stains gradually destroy the suede. One solution can be to only wear suede boots when it's not going to rain and when the sidewalks are obviously cleared of snow.[4] Or, accept that suede boots won't look as good at the end of the season as they did at the beginning!
- Synthetic boots may be more durable for some purposes. This will depend on your wearing preferences and the comfort of the boot. Ask a retailer for specific advice when purchasing your winter boots.
Edit Warnings - Never dry boots in front of an open fire or open heat source. This will cause them to crack and dry out too much. Dry in a warm, dry place away from direct heat sources. Try to dry them upside down over a boot holder or similar item or stuff with newspaper to retain the shape.
- If the stains are really bad, seek professional help from a shoe repairer, dry cleaner or similar. You could also call the manufacturer for advice.
- Always read the instructions accompanying any waterproofing or cleaning product. Some are flammable, some require good ventilation and some require careful application. For your own safety, be aware of all the requirements for using the product before using it.
Edit Things You'll Need - Water protectant
- Soft cloth or sponge
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