Leather boots are a classic fashion statement and an investment in durability and comfort. To keep them looking their best you need to clean and maintain them regularly. This guide will show you how to clean leather boots at home, how to get mud out and how to restore the natural shine with proper conditioning and protection.
Step 1: Gather Your Cleaning Supplies
- Soft-bristled brush: For surface dirt and debris.
- Mild dish soap or leather cleaner: To clean the leather.
- Clean, lint-free cloths: For cleaning, drying and buffing.
- Leather conditioner or oil: To moisturise and flex the leather.
- Waterproofing spray or wax (optional): To protect your boots from water and future stains.
You have everything you need to clean and maintain your boots without damaging the leather.
Step 2: Remove Loose Dirt and Mud
Begin by removing loose dirt and mud from your leather boots. If your boots have mud on them, allow it to dry first before you start cleaning as this will make it easier to brush off.
- Gently knock the boots together: This will dislodge any loose dirt or mud. Hold them by the soles and tap them together.
- Use a soft-bristled brush: Gently scrub the surface of the boots to remove loose dirt and dried mud. Be careful not to scratch the leather. A toothbrush can be useful for cleaning tight spaces, such as seams and around the eyelets.
- For stubborn mud: If the mud is stuck on or in crevices, use a medium-bristled brush to scrub those areas more thoroughly. Don’t press too hard to avoid scrat
How to get mud out of leather boots: Be patient. Don’t add water at this stage as it could make the mud seep deeper into the leather and stain it.
Step 3: Clean with Soap or Leather Cleaner
Once you’ve removed as much dirt and mud as you can, it’s time to deep clean the leather. The choice of cleaner is important—mild dish soap or a leather cleaner will work.
- Prepare the cleaner: If using dish soap, mix a small amount with warm water to make a cleaning solution. If using leather cleaner, follow the instructions.
- Dampen a cloth: Dip a soft, lint-free cloth into the cleaning solution and wring it out so it’s not too wet. You want the cloth to be damp not dripping.
- Clean the leather: Wipe down the entire surface of the boots in gentle circular motions. Focus on the dirtiest areas. Make sure to get all parts of the boots, including seams, folds and around the eyelets.
- For stubborn stains: If there are tough stains or mud, add a bit more pressure or use a second pass
How to get mud out of boots: Work in small sections and don’t oversaturate the leather as too much water can damage it. Wipe away any excess soap with a damp cloth to avoid leaving residue behind.
Step 4: Rinse and Dry the Boots
After cleaning the boots, you need to remove any soapy residue and dry them thoroughly to avoid damaging the leather.
- Rinse with a clean, damp cloth: Use a fresh cloth dampened with clean water to wipe down the boots and remove any remaining soap or cleaner.
- Dry with a towel: Pat the boots dry with a soft, lint-free towel, removing as much moisture as possible.
- Air-dry the boots: Allow the boots to air dry at room temperature. Place them in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight or heat sources like radiators or hair dryers. Heat can cause the leather to crack and fade. Drying time can take up to 48 hours depending on how wet they are.
Important Tip: Stuff your boots with newspaper or paper towels to help absorb moisture from the inside and keep their shape while drying.
Step 5: Condition the Leather
Conditioning leather boots is an important step to keep them soft, supple and protected. Over time leather loses its natural oils which can cause dryness and cracking. Conditioning helps to restore moisture and flexibility.
- Warm the boots: Before applying conditioner, warm the boots by leaving them in indirect sunlight or using a hair dryer on a low setting for a few minutes. The leather should feel warm but not hot to the touch. This helps the conditioner to absorb better.
- Apply leather conditioner: Using a clean, soft cloth, apply a small amount of leather conditioner or oil. Rub it in using small circular motions, making sure to cover the entire boot.
- Let the conditioner absorb: Leave the conditioner to sit on the boots for 15-20 minutes, allowing it to penetrate and moisturise the leather.
- Buff the boots: After the conditioner has absorbed, use another clean cloth to buff the boots in circular motions until they achieve a soft shine.
Pro Tip: Always test the conditioner on a small, discreet area of the boot to make sure it doesn’t discolour or damage.
Step 6: Waterproofing (Optional but Recommended)
If your leather boots are exposed to water, mud or harsh outdoor conditions frequently, waterproofing them can extend their life.
- Choose a waterproofing product: You can use beeswax, a water-based wax or a silicone spray. Each has its advantages:
- Beeswax provides excellent protection and conditions the leather but may darken the colour slightly.
- Water-based waxes are lighter and easier to apply, good for lighter coloured boots.
- Silicone sprays are easy to apply but may need to be reapplied more often.
- Apply in thin layers: If using wax, rub a small amount onto the boots with a clean cloth in circular motions. Let it absorb and then buff the surface with a soft brush. For sprays, follow the instructions on the can.
How to clean and waterproof leather boots: Make sure the boots are completely dry before applying any waterproofing product to avoid trapping moisture inside the leather which can cause mildew or mold.
Step 7: Make the Leather Boots Shine
To give your leather boots a glossy finish and remove minor scuffs, a good polish can do wonders.
- Apply boot polish: Wrap a clean cloth around your finger, dip it into the boot polish and apply to the boots in small circular motions. Make sure the polish is evenly spread across the entire surface.
- Buff to a shine: Use a soft brush or another clean cloth to buff the boots until you get a nice shine. This final step not only makes the boots look good but also adds a layer of protection.
Step 8: Maintenance
To keep your leather boots looking good for years to come, you need to maintain them:
- Clean them regularly: If you wear your boots often, clean them every 2 weeks to prevent dirt and grime from building up. If you don’t wear them as often, clean them once a month.
- Condition periodically: Condition your leather boots every few months to prevent drying and cracking if you live in a dry climate or wear your boots in harsh conditions.
- Waterproof as needed: Reapply waterproofing products when water no longer beads on the surface of your boots.
- How to remove mud from leather boots regularly: By cleaning and conditioning your boots regularly you’ll not only keep them looking good but also extend their life, so they can be your trusted companion for many adventures.
Conclusion
With just a few simple steps you can clean, condition and protect your leather boots and they’ll look good and durable for years to come. Regular care including removing mud, cleaning with the right products, conditioning and waterproofing will keep your boots looking their best and withstand the elements. Follow these professional tips, and your leather boots will continue to serve you well, no matter where life takes you!
Looking for local expertise? Check out our trusted partner Belcaro Cleaners for all your specific garment care needs!
