Moon boots are a type of footwear that originated in the 1970s, characterized by their large, padded design and often bright colors. Inspired by the boots worn by astronauts, they became a popular fashion trend, especially for winter wear. Made with a thick rubber sole and synthetic, water-resistant upper, they provide warmth and comfort in cold conditions.
Moon boots are commonly known as snow boots. So, if you are looking for a guide to clean your moon boots or snow boots, you are at the right place.
Guide to Clean Moon Boots
Supplies Required
- Mild soap or detergent
- Warm water
- Soft-bristle brush
- Clean cloth or sponge
- Towel
- Air-drying space
Instructions
Prepare the Cleaning Solution
Combine a few drops of mild soap or detergent in a basin or bucket with warm water. Ensure it’s well mixed to create a soapy solution that will be gentle on the boots.
Remove Excess Dirt
Before applying any liquid, shake or tap the boots gently to remove any loose dirt or debris. This ensures you’re not rubbing dirt into the fabric when cleaning.
Scrub Gently with a Soft-Bristle Brush
Dip the soft-bristle brush into the soapy solution and gently scrub the exterior of the moon boots. The soft bristles will help remove dirt without damaging the boot material.
Wipe Down with a Clean Cloth or Sponge
After scrubbing, soak a clean cloth or sponge in the soapy solution. Wring out excess water and gently wipe down the boots to remove the soap and lifted dirt.
Rinse with Clean Water
Wipe down the boots using another clean cloth or sponge soaked in clean water to remove any soap residue. Make sure no soapy residue remains, as it can damage the material over time.
Towel Dry the Exterior
Gently pat the exterior of the boots with a towel to remove as much water as possible. This step helps speed up the drying process.
Air Dry in a Well-Ventilated Space
Place the moon boots in a well-ventilated space to air dry. Avoid direct sunlight or heat sources, which can warp or damage the boots. Ensure they are fully dry before wearing or storing them again.
How to Clean the Inside and Insole of Moon Boots?
- Empty the Inside: Begin by shaking out any debris or dirt inside the boots. This helps ensure you’re not pushing the dirt further during cleaning.
- Use a Mild Detergent Solution: Prepare a solution with a few drops of mild detergent and warm water. This gentle mixture will effectively clean without damaging the interior.
- Clean with a Soft Cloth or Sponge: Dip a cloth or sponge into the solution, wring out excess liquid, and gently wipe the inside of the boots. Ensure you reach all the nooks and corners.
- Insole Cleaning: If the insoles are removable, take them out and wipe them down separately with the same detergent solution. If they’re particularly odorous, sprinkle some baking soda, let them sit for a few hours, then shake off the excess.
- Rinse with Clean Water: Dampen another clean cloth with water and wipe down the interior to remove any soap residue. It’s crucial to ensure no soapy remnants are left behind.
- Pat Dry with a Towel: Use a towel to absorb as much moisture as possible from the inside. This helps in reducing the drying time.
- Air Dry: Allow the boots to air dry in a well-ventilated area, ensuring they are completely dry before wearing. You can stuff the boots with newspaper or dry cloths for faster drying to absorb moisture.
- Deodorize if Necessary: If there’s any lingering odor, sprinkle some baking soda inside the boots, let it sit overnight, and shake it out the next day. This will help neutralize odors and keep the inside smelling fresh.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I clean my moon boots?
You should clean your moon boots whenever they appear dirty or after heavy use in muddy or wet conditions. As a general guideline, a thorough cleaning once a month during regular winter usage will keep them in good shape.
How do I store my moon boots for summer?
For summer storage, first ensure your moon boots are clean and completely dry. Store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, ideally in a breathable bag or box to prevent dust accumulation and maintain their shape.
How do I remove the smell from my moon boots?
To eliminate odors from moon boots, air them out in a well-ventilated area. For persistent smells, sprinkle baking soda inside, leave it overnight, and shake out the excess the next day. This will help neutralize and absorb any lingering odors.
Are moon boots waterproof?
Moon boots are designed to be water-resistant, making them suitable for snowy and wet conditions. However, while they can handle moisture and light splashes, they are not entirely waterproof and should not be submerged in water for prolonged periods.
Can I put a moon boot in the washing machine?
Typically, placing shoes in a washing machine isn’t advisable since prolonged exposure to water can weaken the adhesive in the soles or other shoe components. While moon/snow boots are designed to handle significant moisture, they aren’t meant for complete immersion or machine washing. It’s also unsuitable to machine wash boots with sheepskin liners, as this can strip the sheepskin of its essential oils, making it rough and compressed.
How to clean Irish Setter Boots?
To clean Irish Setter Boots, brush off any surface dirt using a stiff brush. Use a damp cloth combined with a mild leather cleaner for tougher stains or residues. Once cleaned, allow the boots to air dry naturally, avoiding direct heat sources to maintain the leather’s integrity and appearance.
How to clean riding boots?
To clean riding boots, start by wiping off surface dirt with a soft cloth. For leather boots, apply a mild leather cleaner or saddle soap using circular motions. After cleaning, buff the leather to restore its shine and allow the boots to air dry away from direct heat. Periodic conditioning will keep the leather supple.
How to clean electric boots and mitts?
Cleaning electric boots and mitts requires caution due to their electrical components. First, ensure they are unplugged and turned off. Wipe down the exterior with a damp cloth using mild soap, avoiding any electrical connectors or heating elements. Never submerge them in water or put them in a washing machine. After cleaning, allow them to air dry thoroughly before their next use to ensure the electrical components remain safe and effective.
How to clean Ski Boots?
For maintaining ski boots, first take out the inner linings and insoles. Clean the exterior of the boot with a cloth lightly soaked in soapy water. Allow the liners to breathe in a well-ventilated space to reduce moisture and smell. Before putting them back together, make sure everything is dry and avoid placing them near direct heat to protect the boot’s integrity.