A dog may be man’s best friend, but hiking boots are a close second. Without a reliable pair, you can find your trip derailed in a multitude of ways. This is why cleaning and treating them right are so important for anyone spending time in the outdoors. Below, we’ll dive into how to clean all aspects of the boots, what tools you’ll need, and a couple of things to avoid.
Why it’s important
Your boots are as important as every other piece of gear in your set. You wouldn’t leave your wet tent rolled up or your sleeping bag compressed in a stuff sack. This should be the same logic for your boots. Just because they’re on the ground all day, they should still be taken care of like any other piece of expensive gear. As boots age, they begin to crack and dirt can get inside those cracks, accelerating the damage to them. By cleaning them semi-frequently, dirt and debri won’t have the ability to break down your shoes. Here are the best ways to keep your boots looking fresh so your investment lasts years.
How to clean your hiking boots
Cleaning your hiking boots doesn’t have to be an arduous task. It only requires a couple of things and should be done in under ten minutes.
So, what will you need? A boot brush is great, but you can also use a toothbrush. You should also grab some boot cleaner or just use some dish soap and warm water. Next, take them outside, shake them off, smack the soles together. This will help dislodge any hanging dirt. Now, it’s time to get scrubbing.
Cleaning the laces
First, remove your laces. Rinse them under running water and if you see any caked-on dirt, use your brush to remove it. This should be a pretty quick process. Set those aside once you’re done.
Cleaning the uppers
Next, take your brush or tooth brush, dip it in the soapy water, and begin gently scrubbing your boots. I’d recommend leaving the bottom of the shoes for last in order to keep the brush as clean as possible. If your hiking boots are especially dirty, soaking them will help break down the remaining dirt.
Once you think they’re sufficiently cleaned, get some clean water, and rinse your boots. This will ensure all the dirt and soap are gone. Then, pull out your soles to improve the drying process. Additionally, find a well-ventilated area of your house. If you’re still worried about how well it’ll dry, stuff them with newspaper. This will greatly accelerate the drying process.
If you want to, add some conditioner or waterproofing spray onto your leather if it looks cracked or dry. This will help prolong the boots’ lifespan.
Cleaning the outsoles
When it comes to cleaning the outsoles, it won’t do much for preserving it long term. However, it will increase your traction and grip for your next trip. Take your same brush and scrub the bottom of the boot until it’s as clean as you like.
Things to avoid doing
While it may seem like a good idea, using heat sources such as a fireplace or portable heater are not ideal for drying your boots. This can cause long-term damage to your boots. Furthermore, do not put your boots in the dryer. The constant rattling can also cause damage.
In the end, the better you care and treat your hiking boots, the longer they will continue to support you on your adventures. I can’t tell you the proper number of times you should be cleaning your boots but if you are a constant adventurer, at least once a month (if not more) should do the trick.
Let us know in the comments if you’ve found any cleaning tricks for your hiking boots! For tips on how to find the right fit for your boots, check out this article.
Article and Photos by Alec Sills-Trausch
Alec is a photographer, writer, and avid hiker who enjoys pushing the limits to find incredible destinations. He hopes through his work to inspire others to get outside and to respect planet earth so future generations can enjoy it just the same. He’s also a cancer survivor, hoping to use his voice to show that you can have a wonderful life after the treatment.
