When you buy a brand new pair of winter boots, taking them on their first outing can be a little daunting. With rain, snow, salt and other elements to face, these can threaten the perfect condition of your boots as soon as you step outside. Of course, you don’t want to hide them in your wardrobe, so it’s important to know how to deal with the winter weather to confidently showcase your new boots.
To keep your winter boots looking as good as new, you’ll need to take proper care of them. That’s why we’ve put together a few useful tips and tricks to help you keep your boots in the best shape possible so that you can feel fabulous all season long.
Read on to learn how to protect and clean your winter boots to keep stains, scratches and scuffs at bay.
How To Protect Winter Boots
Before you head out into the cold, you’ll need to consider what your new boots will be facing. Putting preventative measures in place early will ensure that your boots are well protected from the cold weather. Preparing your boots for the outdoors can also stop them from being scratched, scuffed or ruined.
Waterproof Your Winter Boots
Whether we’re lucky enough to see snow this season or not, your winter boots will need to be ready to face some water. Rain, hail, ice and snow are possible during the colder months, so your boots must withstand this to prevent them from being ruined.
The best way to prepare them for wet weather is by waterproofing them. Many effective treatments are suitable for your boots, from waterproof sprays to waxes and gels. The treatment type depends on your winter boots’ material, as each type needs to be cared for differently.
How To Waterproof Leather Boots
Leather is naturally durable, but its water-resistant properties can be boosted with the right treatment. A waterproof wax is the best choice to keep the leather moisturised and prevent it from cracking.
As it is a staple in many people’s shoe care kits, this type of waterproof treatment creates a strong water-resistant layer over the leather of your boots, which stops moisture from seeping in without ruining any of the soft, supple material.
How To Waterproof Suede Boots
Suede boots can be a little trickier, as this type of material isn’t typically known for its water-repellent properties. They are more difficult to clean than leather boots, so taking good care of them will reduce the need for complicated cleaning. To make them more durable in bad weather conditions, choose an effective waterproof spray suitable for suede fabric use. Spray and allow them to dry until the fabric is moisture-free before you take on the elements.
Clean Your Boots Regularly
To take proper care of your winter boots, you should also stay on top of cleaning them regularly. Salt and snow can easily build up on boots and react to their material, leaving long-lasting effects. This kind of damage can often leave winter boots permanently stained, so try to take steps to avoid this.
Washing with basic soap and water, brushing off any salt and tidying the boots up regularly will help prevent these long-term marks.
Polish Your Leather Boots
Invest in good-quality shoe polish and shine your leather boots regularly to keep them in great condition. This can be black or clear, depending on the colour of your boots. Applying the shoe polish and buffing it out will give your leather winter boots a shiny, clean look that will leave them looking as good as new. You can also cover your boots with a leather protective spray afterwards, giving them extra protection for the winter months.
Use a Horsehair Brush on Suede Boots
One of the best suede boots care products you can buy is a horsehair brush. It can brush away dirt, salt and dust from the suede without scratching or damaging the soft material. It is also versatile enough to use on other durable boots if you opt for a softer type. Brush your boots regularly to stop build-up and keep them looking their best.
How To Clean Grit Salt From Winter Boots
We’re no strangers to seeing the grit van doing its rounds in the winter. While grit salt is great for stopping us from tumbling to the ground on a snowy day, it isn’t the best for winter boots. Luckily, if you clean the grit salt from your boots quickly, you can successfully avoid any lasting marks and step out in style the next day.
Your best friend for suede boots will be a suede brush and eraser set. They are made from delicate materials to ensure that the suede doesn’t get damaged or scratched, and they effectively brush away the salt from your boots. The eraser then provides a secondary, suede-safe way to eliminate those tougher salt stains.
Look After Your Winter Boots This Season
Your winter boots protect your feet from the cold weather, so you can do your bit to protect them from it too. By regularly waterproofing, cleaning and brushing your boots, you’ll be able to keep them in the best condition to face the winter weather.
Look at our full range of women’s boots to find an option you love. Whether you prefer Chelsea, biker, knee-high or ankle boots, we’re guaranteed to have the style you’re looking for.
Related
Your Footwear Style Guide for Autumn/Winter 2021