Before I explain that in detail, let’s take a quick look at how your boots are made. The layer in contact with your skin is a thin and comfy layer of fabric that lays directly on top. Behind that, you have your waterproof membrane, which could be Gore-Tex or an own-brand membrane.
After that, you have a big chunk of padding and then your outer material, which is leather in this case. It’s a quick and easy process that will help your boots last longer. One of the most common questions we get in the shop is how do you clean leather waterproof boots?
The answer is that it depends on how often you use them, what kind of weather and terrain you use them in, and how you store them. Let us go to the simple ways of cleaning your waterproof boots!
How to Clean Waterproof Leather Boots in a Simple Ways
Hard work can make your leather boots look dull and need cleaning or cracking. To ensure the longevity of your boots, they must be gently cleaned before each usage. Numerous techniques for using wet and dry combinations can guarantee success.
When it comes to keeping your boots looking new, you can’t go wrong by simply cleaning them as needed. Here are a few tips on how to clean waterproof leather boots:
What Tools To Use
To clean waterproof leather boots, you’ll need a bucket, water, a sponge, and some cleaner. Add enough cleanser to cover the sponge to the bucket of water. Wring out the sponge after soaking it in water. Wipe down the boots with the sponge to clean them. Be sure to get inside the boot toe and heel crevices.
Note: If your boots are very grimy, you can scrape them clean with a bristled brush if you want to. Be sure to wear gloves if you have to use a brush because soap will eat away at the leather. Finally, rinse the boots off with water.
1. Choosing the Appropriate Cleaner and Conditioner
Leather boots can be tricky to clean, but with some know-how, they can be kept looking and feeling great.

First, choose the right cleaner and conditioner. Waterproof leather is treated with a protective coating that must be removed before cleaning it. So, choose a cleaner that is designed specifically for waterproof leather.
2. Cleaning Your Boots
Cleaning your waterproof leather boots can be a bit of a hassle, but it’s worth it in the long run.

If you don’t clean your boots regularly, dirt and dust will Build up on the heels and soles. This will make your boots dirtier and less comfortable to wear. In addition, bacteria will start to grow in the dirt and dust, which can cause infections in your feet.
To clean your waterproof leather boots properly, follow these steps so that you will know about How to clean Waterproof Leather Boots:
1) Wet your boots thoroughly before cleaning them. This will help to soften the dirt and dust particles.
2) You should clean the boots with a soft brush or towel. Make sure to clean all of the areas that have become soiled thoroughly.
3) Rinse the boots with water to wash away the soap residue.
4) Before storing the boots, make sure they are scorched. Please don’t put them in direct sunlight or inside an enclosed space, where moisture can collect.
5) Avoid using harsh chemicals.
3. Applying the Conditioner
You should first remove all dust and filth from the leather surface of your boots before you begin conditioning them. If you want to clean and prepare your shoes properly, they must be scorched before you start. Remove any laces from your boots and store them somewhere dry with minimal humidity.

The boots should then have a leather conditioner applied to them. This will help protect the leather from becoming dry and brittle. Before putting the boots back on, let the conditioner sit in them for at least an hour.
4. Drying and Storing Your Boots
- To dry boots, they should be placed in an average temperature and low humidity area.
- It is crucial to avoid heating sources at all costs.
- By utilizing a fan, you can hasten the drying process.
- Alternatively, you can pack the boots with newspaper to accelerate the drying process; however, you will need to replace the newspaper periodically (once it becomes wet).
- Ensure boots are stored where the temperature is consistent and typical. Boots should not be stored in attics, garages, trunks of vehicles, or any other humid, hot location with little ventilation.
After drying it comeplety, now your boots will be clean just like in the picture!

What are the Benefits of Waterproofing Boots?
Waterproofing boots can help keep your feet warm and dry while you’re on the go. They can also protect your footwear from damp weather conditions such as rain, snow, and other forms of precipitation.
The benefits of waterproofing boots go beyond keeping your feet comfortable; waterproofing boots also help keep your clothing and gear clean and free from water Damage.
Experts Tips for Cleaning Waterproof Leather Boots
Cleaning waterproof leather boots is necessary if you want them to last. Here are four tips for How to clean Waterproof Leather Boots:
- Regularly check the condition of the boot’s waterproofing by attempting to wet the inside sole and see if water seeps in. If it does, it means that the waterproofing is starting to fail.
- Before you start, check that your boots are devoid of any moisture. You should not use any water-based cleaner or detergent on them. Instead, use a dry cloth or sponge to clean them up.
- If your boots are made from cowhide, use a particular cowhide care product to clean them. This product will restore the grain in the leather and make it easier to clean.
- If you have suede boots, use a suede brush to clean them. Be sure to brush in all directions so that you remove all the dirt, dust, and debris.
- You can use oil or boot protector polish to bring back the shine to your boots. Make sure to apply the polish or oil in a light coat and wait until it is scorched before wearing them again.
Should I condition Waterproof Leather Boots?
Yes, Conditioning waterproof leather boots can be beneficial in a few ways. Conditioning waterproof leather boots is a common practice, often recommended by boot manufacturers. Softening leather makes it more comfortable to wear and less likely to crack or break. When conditioning your boots, there are a few things to remember.
- First, ensure the conditioner you choose is appropriate for the type of leather and coating your boots have.
- Second, be careful not to apply too much conditioner; you want it to be enough to coat the leather but not so much that it becomes sticky or difficult to remove.
- Finally, allow the boots to dry completely before wearing them.
How do You Treat Waterproof Leather Boots?
One alternative is using a spray-on waterproofing agent or another commercially available waterproofing agent. Using beeswax cream is another alternative.
It has been discovered that waterproofing leather using beeswax is quite successful. Beeswax is a natural solution that can be used to prevent water from penetrating leather.
How to Maintain & Care Waterproof leather boots?
Keeping your waterproof leather boots clean and free of dirt, dust, and other debris is essential for their long-term durability. To keep your boots in top condition, you should follow these simple steps:
- 1. Use a stiff brush to remove any built-up dirt and dust.
- 2. To remove any remaining dust or dirt, wipe the surface with a moist cloth.
- 3. If necessary, apply leather cleaner to the surface and wipe it down again.
Conclusion
Boots made of leather are among the most popular footwear choices. A wide range of events can be accommodated by these shoes, which are both fashionable and comfy. However, leather boot heels can get dirty quickly. If your waterproof leather boots are stained or have built-up dirt, you’ll need to clean them first.