One of the most wonderful things about winter is the chance to wear boots. Whether sky-high platforms, sexy over-the-knee boots or funky, leather boots are fun to wear. They're also prone to soiling, especially when striding city sidewalks. If you're wondering how to clean finished leather boots, don't worry. It's not hard at all, if you follow a few simple techniques.
Here's what you'll need:
- Newspaper
- Shoe brush
- Soft cloths
- Saddle soap
- Leather conditioner
- White vinegar to remove salt stains
- Liquid silicone
Start by spreading a sheet or two of newspaper on the surface where you'll be cleaning your boots. You can also stuff boots with crumpled newspaper to help them remain upright while cleaning and drying.
Use a shoe brush to whisk away surface dirt and debris. If finished leather boots show salt stains, use a 50-50 mixture of warm water and white vinegar to dab them away. Take care not to wet boots too much, as doing so can warp the leather.
Apply a small amount of saddle soap to a damp cloth. A dime-sized dollop is just right. Rub the saddle soap in a circular motion over each boot, then use another dampened cloth to wipe away all traces of saddle soap.
Blot boots with a towel and buff to restore the luster of the leather. Allow boots to dry naturally, away from sunlight and radiant heat sources. Once boots are completely dry, apply leather conditioner over each boot, excluding the sole and heel.
If you wear boots in an area prone to inclement weather, you may wish to apply a liquid silicone product to the outside of your boots to help protect them from water and grime. Brush your boots every time you take them off, and cleaning them will be easier.
Boots are an important fashion investment. If you take proper care of them, your leather boots can last a lifetime. Want to know more about how to care for boots and shoes? Contact us without delay. We are Lonia, and we love beautiful boots and shoes as much as you do.
