One of the many things that make us happy is shoes. It’s especially true when they are waterproof! Leather boots provide a functional, reliable, and fashionable piece of footwear.
Whether going on a hike or just heading to work, these shoes will keep your feet dry and healthy. If you’re interested in your pair or have someone in mind who needs them, read on for tips on maintaining waterproof leather boots.
Maintaining the cleanliness of your footwear is essential for keeping it free of dirt and mud. As many of you know, if you’re a hiker, you’ll most likely change out of your smelly, squishy boots at the trailhead and then pack them into plastic bags to be forgotten in the back of your vehicle.
Despite how tired you may feel after a long hike or run, ensuring that your boots are not left untouched for more than a few days is advisable.
4 Easy Steps to Maintain Your Waterproof Leather Boots
It’s essential to keep your boots in good shape, although you may not wear them all the time. Often, people forget or don’t bother to take care of their footwear, and they do more harm than good.
There are a few things that you can do to keep your waterproof leather boots in good condition:
1. Cleaning
The first step is to remove the laces and insoles. You should now clap your boots against a solid surface to remove any muck and stones that have accumulated in the tread. In the case of sticky gunk, such as sap, you should put them in the freezer to set it.
Once they have been selected, you can remove the residue using a dull knife. After that, you need to wash them thoroughly with water using a brush to remove any dirt on the complex areas.
There is a possibility of using a little cleaning gel or soap; however, avoid harsh soaps that could damage the boots.
If your boots are filthy, rinse them with water and vinegar. While using a vacuum, if you come across dirt or sandy trails, make the most of the hose attachment to eliminate the fine particles from the inside and the outside of your shoes.
It would be best if you also remembered to take care of your shoe soles. To ensure maximum grip and prevent the rubber from decaying, it is vital to clear the soles of any accumulated debris.
2. Conditioning
After your shoes have been washed, you should wait until they are dry. The most important thing to remember is that most conditioners give a shine to your shoes, and if you use them frequently, you will increase the lifespan of your footwear, and you won’t need to waterproof them as often.
Take a tiny amount of the conditioner, put it on an unclean cloth, and rub it all over your shoes. Even a minimal amount can do a great deal of good. There is no need to press the oil into the leather as well. In time, the conditioner will absorb into the leather. Don’t forget to cover it evenly and make sure that you do not miss any areas.
After coating the boot, you should allow it to rest for a couple of hours or even overnight. Take a fresh cloth and wipe away any excess coating. There is a possibility that the shoes could appear darker today than when you first purchased them because leather absorbs the conditioning. It is normal and will fade with time. Do not worry about it, and it will disappear as time passes.
3. Waterproofing
Make sure that you apply waterproof wax to the leather of your boot. A majority of the types of waterproof wax found on the market are contained in plastic containers or tin cans. In order to apply the cream to the leather surfaces inside and outside of your boot, you need to dip a clean rag into the cream and spread it evenly over the surfaces.
When the wax is in place, the rag is used in a circular motion until the seat is thoroughly cleaned. It would help if you used waterproof wax on your boots at least once a year. The waterproof wax will protect the leather for many months after applying it to the boot.
4. Drying and Storing Your Footwear
When you wash your shoes, you must let them dry thoroughly to prevent mold from growing and material degradation. If you want to make sure that your shoes dry quickly, you must have a low-humidity atmosphere. You can help the process by using a blower or a boot dryer or inserting newspapers in each shoe.
Ensure that you keep the adhesive away from any heat sources, including fireplaces, which can cause damage to the materials, as well as weaken the adhesive. The insoles should be dry separately from the boot and should not be returned to the boot until they are dehydrated.
Afterwards, ensure they are in a well-ventilated space and keep away from attics, garages, and attics, which are notorious for being hot and humid.
Troubleshooting the Aging Process on Leather Boots
Waterproof leather boots are an excellent choice for those who want weather protection and want their footwear to look good and last. But like any leather product, they can suffer from the aging process.
The following tips will help you troubleshoot the aging process on your waterproof leather boots.
- Check for Fading: The first step in troubleshooting the aging process is checking for fading. It is imperative if you notice a change in the color of your shirt or a loss in water resistance. If you’re concerned about fading, give your boots a light cleaning before putting them through their paces again.
- Test for Water Resistance: Another way to check for fading and water-resistance is to take them outside and test their ability to handle rain or snow. Make sure the surface you’re stretching them on is wet, not dry, and don’t let them get too wet – try only a tiny area at a time, so you don’t damage the boots. Remember to dry them off entirely before retesting them!
- Repair Damaged Leather: If you notice any signs of wear or tear, don’t hesitate to repair them. Various types of repair kits available will help restore your leather.
Tips for Avoiding the Mold Problem with Your Boots
Waterproof leather boots are great for keeping your feet warm and dry in the winter, but they can also be a breeding ground for mold.
Here are some tips on how to avoid the mold problem:
- Clean your boots regularly with a damp cloth and soap.
- Dry your shoes entirely before storing them.
- Don’t wear your shoes in wet or humid conditions.
- Keep your shoes away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
How do Polish Boots?
If you want your boots to shine and you don’t know how to maintain waterproof leather boots, you will need polish for shoes, a buffing tool, a cloth, and warm water in a cup. It is possible to polish your boots after conditioning them. It provides even more lustre and protection to the leather and renews its color. This step is especially beneficial when it comes to elegant dress boots.
- The cream polish should match the color of the leather. Before applying it, make sure that it matches the color of the leather.
- Use an applicator brush to apply the cover, using the upper region of the boot as the highest point to evenly distribute the cream over all the parts of the boot.
- Start with a small amount and then increase the quantity according to your needs.
- Finish with the quick buffing by using horsehair brushes.
- Let the boots dry for fifteen minutes.
If you polish your boots after being cleaned, they will look brand new.
Conclusion
In conclusion, keeping your leather boots waterproof is key to keeping them in good condition. There are several ways about how to maintain waterproof leather boots, and each has its benefits. By following the tips in this article, you can keep your leather boots in great shape for years to come.
