Leather has been around since the Paleolithic Age. The processing of the material might be different. But the reason for choosing leather remains the same. It provided great protection back then, and it still does now. It’s one of the reasons why leather boots have remained popular for decades.
Leather boots are one of the most popular shoes today. They’re a good choice for those who lead an active lifestyle. Boots are also essential when working a job that requires extra protection. This type of footwear is quite expensive though. But it’s a worthy investment and one that you should take care of.
Why People Love Leather Boots
Leather boots might cost more, but the benefits outweigh the price tag. Here’s why you should have several pairs of boots in your wardrobe:
- They’re durable. Boots made from genuine leather will outlast other shoes made of synthetic materials. Leather is also a very sturdy material and will remain strong even when used in a demanding environment.
- Leather boots are water-resistant. Leather can become treated to be resistant to liquids. It makes them the ideal footwear in construction sites, docks, and other areas where you’re exposed to water. Your feet will remain dry and you’re protected from spills.
- They’re comfortable. Good quality leather will mold itself to the shape of your feet. It’s why this type of boots is so comfortable to wear. It provides you with comfort and extra support for your feet.
- Leather boots are easy to clean. It’s surprising how simple the process is. You can wipe them clean with a damp cloth. And since leather is breathable, they dry faster and won’t develop a moldy smell.
Best Way to Clean Leather Boots
Your leather boots will last longer if they’re cleaned and polished often. You should also condition it from time to time. Here are instructions on how to clean leather boots:
- Take off the boot’s laces and other removable parts. It will make cleaning faster if the laces are out of the way. Make sure you take out any soles and inserts as well. You should also wash them. You can add them to your laundry pile or do a single wash.
It’s also a good idea to replace worn shoelaces. You don’t want them to break when you’re at work. Luckily, finding a replacement is easy. Measure the length of the original laces so you’ll know what to ask for in the shoe store. Walmart or Target Supercenters also sell replacement shoelaces in their stores.
- Remove hardened dirt and mud. It’s not unusual to see dried and crusted mud on work boots. You can tap the soles of your boots together to shake the dirt loose. You can also brush the loose dirt away using a brush with stiff bristles or rub it off using a soft cloth. Use a firm and rigorous motion to get all the dirt off. Don’t forget to brush off even the little corners and crevices on the sole and stitching.
- Make a cleaning solution. One of the easiest cleaning solutions you can make is a mixture of warm water and dish soap. You can also make a 50-50 mix of distilled water and white vinegar. You can also use apple cider vinegar if that’s on hand. Do not apply vinegar straight on your leather shoes or boots. The high acid content can damage them.
You can also create a natural oil mixture. Mix two parts oil with one part lemon juice. You can also use plain water. Use any natural oil, like coconut or olive oil. The oil will hydrate the leather. The lemon or water component will clean the shoe.
- Apply the cleaning solution. Dip a soft and clean cloth in the mixture. You can also use a toothbrush for better control. Wring out excess water. Wipe down the surface of your boot with it. Move the cloth in a slow but circular motion. You should also wipe down the sides and edges. Don’t forget the heel and soles.
- Rinse off the mixture. Get another clean cloth and dip it in clear water. Wring off excess water. It should be damp, not wet. Rinse off the cleaning mix by wiping it from the boots.
- Dry immediately. Try to remove as much moisture as you can. You can use an old but clean cloth to wipe down the shoes. You should then let the boots dry in a natural manner. The process could take about two days. Do not place boots under the sun or any direct heat. This could lead to cracked or faded leather.
- Prepare your boots for conditioning. This is a crucial step in preserving your boots. Think of how cast iron pans are often treated so they won’t rust. It’s the same idea. Conditioning the leather means it will become stronger and will last longer.
The first step to the conditioning process is to warm up the leather. You can place them in indirect sunlight. You can also use the lowest setting of a hairdryer to blow hot air on the boots. It should be warm to the touch.
- Start the conditioning process. A good boot conditioning product will keep them supple and shiny. It also protects them from stains. You can choose a good boot oil, wax, or sealant. There are also good quality leather conditioners out in the market today. Some of the more popular ones are Cobbler’s Choice and Huberd’s Shoe Grease.
Apply them by following the directions on the packaging. Let the leather absorb the solution for 15 minutes. You can then buff your boots until they shine.
Cleaning the Right Way
Cleaning is a breeze when you have Helping Hands Cleaning Services at your side. You don’t have to worry about the health and safety of your family or staff. Thousands of households have placed their trust in us. We can take care of the cleaning while you focus on what matters the most. We do COVID 19 coronavirus sanitizing as well as move-in move-out cleaning. We also offer home and office cleaning services. You can call us at (630) 530-1324 or drop us a line at info@Hhcleans.com.