How to Maintain Waterproof Leather Boots
Remove the insoles., Remove the shoelaces., Brush away dust and dirt using an old vegetable brush or toothbrush., Mix water and a specialized boot cleaner in a bowl., Dip the brush into the cleaning solution., Gently scrub away all the dirt and...
Step-by-Step Guide
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Step 1: Remove the insoles.
Many insoles can be machine-washed, but you should check the manufacturer’s instructions before attempting to do so. -
Step 2: Remove the shoelaces.
This step may not be necessary for a quick scrubbing, but removing the laces allows you to perform a more thorough cleaning on the surface of the boot. , Be gentle, but firm.
You do not need to remove all the dirt, but you should strive to remove any large clumps. , Alternatively, you may also use a mild dishwashing soap.
Avoid bar soaps or detergents, however, since they often contain surfactants that can dry your leather out or brighteners that may leave residues. , Tap it on the side of the bowl to remove excess water. , Keep scrubbing until you have removed nearly all grime other than mold. , This solution can be abrasive, so you should only use it for instances of mold and not for general cleaning. , Tap the brush on the side of the bowl to remove excess solution. , If the mold does not scrape off after the first cleansing, re-soak your brush, and scrub again. , The water level should be just high enough to cover the soles of your boots. , Let them soak several hours to loosen caked on mud.
Do not let the upper portion of the boot sit in the water, since doing so could damage the leather. , Use a hose or hose faucet extension. , Many soaps, detergents, and cleansers are hydrophilic and could cause long-term damage to your boots if allowed to sit.
Use a gentle stream of water from a hose or faucet. -
Step 3: Brush away dust and dirt using an old vegetable brush or toothbrush.
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Step 4: Mix water and a specialized boot cleaner in a bowl.
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Step 5: Dip the brush into the cleaning solution.
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Step 6: Gently scrub away all the dirt and debris from the outside of your boots.
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Step 7: Mix four parts water and one part vinegar if you spot mold on your boots.
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Step 8: Dip your brush into the vinegar solution.
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Step 9: Gently scrub away the mold.
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Step 10: Fill a shallow pan with an inch or so of water.
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Step 11: Set your boots in the water.
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Step 12: Remove the boots from the pan and blast a steady
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Step 13: strong stream of water at the remaining sludge.
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Step 14: Rinse your boots to remove any remaining soap residue.
Detailed Guide
Many insoles can be machine-washed, but you should check the manufacturer’s instructions before attempting to do so.
This step may not be necessary for a quick scrubbing, but removing the laces allows you to perform a more thorough cleaning on the surface of the boot. , Be gentle, but firm.
You do not need to remove all the dirt, but you should strive to remove any large clumps. , Alternatively, you may also use a mild dishwashing soap.
Avoid bar soaps or detergents, however, since they often contain surfactants that can dry your leather out or brighteners that may leave residues. , Tap it on the side of the bowl to remove excess water. , Keep scrubbing until you have removed nearly all grime other than mold. , This solution can be abrasive, so you should only use it for instances of mold and not for general cleaning. , Tap the brush on the side of the bowl to remove excess solution. , If the mold does not scrape off after the first cleansing, re-soak your brush, and scrub again. , The water level should be just high enough to cover the soles of your boots. , Let them soak several hours to loosen caked on mud.
Do not let the upper portion of the boot sit in the water, since doing so could damage the leather. , Use a hose or hose faucet extension. , Many soaps, detergents, and cleansers are hydrophilic and could cause long-term damage to your boots if allowed to sit.
Use a gentle stream of water from a hose or faucet.
About the Author
Gary Bishop
Dedicated to helping readers learn new skills in creative arts and beyond.
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