Cleaning work boots regularly extends their durability and maintains their protective features. It also ensures a hygienic environment for the feet, preventing mold, bacterial growth and odors. A well-maintained boot looks professional and ensures consistent comfort and safety during long work hours.
When it comes to work boots, cleaning the outside and inside are equally important. Let’s find out how you can clean work boots made from different materials.
How to Clean the Outside of Work Boots?
Leather
Begin by brushing off any loose dirt with a soft-bristled brush. Use a damp cloth with a mild soap solution to gently wipe the boot’s surface. After cleaning, rinse and wipe away soap residue. Allow the boots to air-dry naturally, avoiding direct sunlight or heat. Once dry, apply a leather conditioner to retain the leather’s suppleness and prolong its life.
Nubuck
For Nubuck, use a Nubuck cleaning brush to lift dirt and restore the nap. If needed, you can use a Nubuck-specific cleaner or a mild soap solution with a cloth. Always dry the boots naturally, away from direct heat. Apply a Nubuck conditioner or waterproofing spray to maintain the texture and protect from moisture.
Suede
Gently brush the suede shoes with a suede brush to remove dirt and restore its nap. For deeper stains or dirt, use a suede eraser or cleaner. After cleaning, let the boots air-dry. Protect and condition suede by applying a suede protector spray, which can also offer some water resistance.
Rubber
Rubber boots are straightforward to clean. Wipe them down with a cloth soaked in water and mild detergent. For stubborn stains, a soft brush can be used. After washing, rinse off any detergent and let them air dry. To maintain shine and prevent rubber from drying out, apply a silicone-based spray or conditioner.
Gore-Tex
For Gore-Tex boots, remove loose dirt with a brush. Using lukewarm water and mild soap, gently cleanse the boot’s exterior. Ensure all soap is rinsed off thoroughly. Allow the boots to air-dry naturally, ensuring they’re fully dry before use. While Gore-Tex is inherently waterproof, re-applying a water repellent spray after several washes can help maintain its water-resistant qualities. Gore-Tex doesn’t typically require conditioning, but maintaining water repellency is essential.
Tips to Clean the Inside of Work Boots
- Empty Loose Debris: Shake out the boots to remove any loose dirt or debris from the inside. This ensures a clean start and prevents any further embedding of particles during the cleaning process.
- Vacuum the Inside: Use a handheld vacuum to suction out finer dust and particles. This can be especially helpful in pulling out any grit that’s settled deep within the boot.
- Wipe with a Damp Cloth: For non-removable liners, dampen a cloth with water and mild soap. Gently wipe the inside to remove stains and accumulated sweat.
- Clean the Insole: If the insole is removable, take it out and brush off any dirt. For a deeper clean, hand wash it with a mixture of water and mild detergent, then air dry completely before placing it back in the boot.
- Air Out Regularly: Allowing your boots to air out after each use prevents moisture buildup, which is a primary contributor to bad odors and bacterial growth.
- Use Natural Deodorizers: To combat and remove smells, place baking soda, cedar shoe inserts, or natural sachets (like lavender) inside the boot overnight. They absorb moisture and leave a pleasant scent.
- Dry Using Boot Dryers or Newspapers: If the inside of the boot is wet, use boot dryers or stuff them with newspapers. The newspaper will absorb moisture and help the boots retain their shape. Replace the newspaper as it gets wet.
- Avoid Direct Heat: Never place wet boots near direct heat sources like radiators or heaters, as this can damage the boot materials and reduce their lifespan.
Spot Cleaning Tough Stains on Work Boots
Oil/Grease
For oil or grease stains on leather or fabric, sprinkle cornstarch or baby powder over the affected area. Let it sit for a few hours to absorb the grease, then brush it off. If the stain persists, gently dab with a cloth dipped in a mixture of water and mild dish soap.
Ink/Paint
Ink stains can often be lifted with isopropyl alcohol (rubbing alcohol). Dab the stain gently using a cloth moistened with the alcohol. If dealing with paint, scrape off as much as you can using a plastic scraper, then use a suitable paint remover or turpentine for the residue. Always test on an inconspicuous area first.
Salt Stains
Salt stains, common on winter boots, can be addressed with a mixture of half water and half white vinegar. Dampen a cloth with the solution and gently wipe away the salt residue. After cleaning, let the boots dry naturally.
Water Stains
For water stains on leather boots, dampen the entire surface of the leather (so it’s uniformly wet) and then let it dry naturally, away from direct heat. This often results in an even color. Conditioning afterward can help restore the leather’s natural sheen.
Rust Stains
Rust stains can be tackled with lemon juice and salt. Sprinkle salt on the stain, then squeeze lemon juice over it. Let it sit for a few hours before wiping away. For more delicate materials, consider using a commercial rust remover, but always conduct a spot test first.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I clean my work boots?
Regularly brushing off dirt after each use is advisable, but for a thorough cleaning, it depends on the work environment and boot usage. Generally, a deep clean every two to four weeks is recommended to prolong boot life and maintain comfort.
Can I use a hair dryer to dry work boots?
While a hair dryer can speed up the drying process, using it on high heat or very close to the boot is not advisable, as it can damage the material or weaken adhesives. If used, it should be on a cool setting and kept at a distance.
Can I use WD-40 to remove stains from work boots?
WD-40 can help remove certain stains from work boots, especially tar or adhesive residues. However, it can darken leather or change its texture. Always test on an inconspicuous spot before applying to a larger area.
How to clean muddy work boots?
Knock off as much dried mud as possible first. Then, using a brush and a mixture of water and mild detergent, scrub the mud off. Rinse with clean water and allow the boots to air dry away from direct heat or sunlight.