Your snow boots follow you everywhere during the winter, whether in the forest, in the city or even on vacation in the mountains. But between mud, road salt and humidity, they are often put to the test! So, to keep them in good condition and extend their lifespan, regular maintenance is essential.
Fortunately, nothing too complicated! With the right actions, you can easily clean your boots and protect them so that they remain as efficient as the first day. Whether your boots are made of leather, synthetic fabric or with a very soft lining, each material needs appropriate care.
In this guide, we'll take you step-by-step through how to care for your snow boots , from the outside to the inside, and share some tips to keep them ready for the winters ahead.
Understanding Snow Boot Materials
Before you break out your cleaning supplies, it's important to know a little more about what's under your feet. Your snow boots are made from different materials, and each requires special care to keep them in good condition and ready to take on winter.
Here is a quick overview of the most commonly used materials, and some simple tips for maintaining them.
1. Leather: durable but requires regular maintenance
If your boots are made of leather, you have chosen durability and style. However, without regular maintenance, the leather can dry out or crack. Don't panic, just follow a few simple steps: a damp cloth with a special leather soap to clean them, followed by a good nourishing balm to keep them supple. And to finish, don't forget a little touch of waterproofing to protect them against humidity.
2. Synthetic fabrics: light and waterproof
Boots made of synthetic fabric (like nylon) are often chosen for their lightweight and ability to remain waterproof. The trick here is to go easy. Use a soft brush and a little soapy water to remove dirt. Once clean, consider giving them a good coat of waterproofing spray to keep them repelling snow and rain.
3. The inner linings: the cocoon of warmth
The soft interior of your boots is what keeps your feet nice and warm! Whether they're made of faux fur or wool, these linings need a little TLC, especially after a day in the snow. To freshen them up, a wipe with a damp cloth and a little mild disinfectant will do the trick. And don't forget to let them dry and breathe after each outing to avoid unpleasant odors.
Before cleaning: equipment and precautions to take
Before you start cleaning your snow boots, take a few moments to make sure you have everything you need on hand. The right equipment makes all the difference in cleaning your boots effectively and without the risk of damaging them. Here's what you'll need and some precautions to follow to get started.
Equipment to be provided:
➜ A soft brush : to remove dirt and residue without scratching or damaging materials.
➜ A microfiber cloth: ideal for wiping gently and avoiding streaks.
➜ Warm water and mild soap: avoid harsh detergents, choose a soap suitable for the materials of your boots.
➜ A waterproofer: in spray or cream, it will protect your boots after cleaning.
Precautions to take:
➜ Remove the laces and soles: Before you start, remove anything that can be cleaned separately. The soles and laces also need a little cleaning! Let them dry separately to prevent them from remaining damp inside the boots.
➜ Check the instructions: Some boots, especially those made of leather or technical materials, may require specific products. Always check the manufacturer's care instructions to avoid damaging your boots by using an unsuitable product.
➜ Test on a small area: If you are using a new cleaning or waterproofing product, it is always safer to test it on a small, inconspicuous area of the boot before applying everything. This avoids any unpleasant surprises.
Once you are well prepared, you can move on to the cleaning stage with complete peace of mind. Your boots will thank you for this attention, and they will remain in perfect condition!
Step 1: Exterior cleaning
Cleaning the exterior of your snow boots is the first step in restoring their shine and keeping them effective against the elements. After dealing with mud, snow, and sometimes even road salt, your boots need a good refresh. Here's how to clean them without risking damage.
1. Remove surface dirt
Before using water, start by removing mud and dried debris. Use a soft brush to gently scrub the outside of your boots. This step will remove most of the dirt without too much effort. Be careful not to scrub too hard, especially if your boots are made of leather or delicate materials, to avoid damaging them.
2. Prepare a mild cleaning solution
In a bowl, mix a little warm water with a mild soap (such as Marseille soap or a specific shoe product). It is important not to use harsh chemicals that could damage the waterproofing of the boots or dull their color. Dip a microfiber cloth in the solution and wring it out so that it is just damp.
3. Clean the exterior of the boots
Using your damp cloth , gently rub the outside of your boots. Work in small areas to remove any remaining dirt. Don't hesitate to insist a little more on particularly stained areas, but don't force it so as not to risk damaging the material.
4. Rinse and dry
Once you've thoroughly cleaned the exterior, take a clean, damp cloth to rinse off any soap residue. Then, use a dry cloth to wipe down your boots and remove any excess moisture. Most importantly, don't let your boots get too wet, as this can weaken the stitching and materials.
5. Waterproof
Once your boots are clean and dry, consider applying a waterproofing spray suitable for their material. This will protect them from moisture and prolong their life. Spray evenly and let them dry naturally before wearing them again.
Step 2: Interior cleaning
While the exterior of your snow boots is often on the front lines facing the elements, the interior should not be neglected. After several outings, moisture, sweat and even small particles can accumulate and make your boots less comfortable to wear. A good interior cleaning not only extends their lifespan, but also ensures maximum comfort and hygiene. Here's how to do it.
1. Remove the insoles and laces
Before cleaning the inside, start by removing the removable insoles and laces (if your boots have them). This will allow each element to be cleaned thoroughly and prevent moisture from getting trapped inside. The insoles can be cleaned separately with a damp cloth and a little mild soap, then left to air dry.
2. Remove residue
For the rest of the interior, start by shaking your boots or running a small handheld vacuum to remove any debris, dust or small particles that have crept into the lining. This will allow you to start with a clean base before disinfecting.
3. Gently clean the interior
The inside of boots, often lined with faux fur or insulating materials , needs a little TLC. Use a clean cloth dampened with warm water and a little mild soap . Gently rub the inside to remove any traces of moisture, sweat or dirt.
4. Deodorize and disinfect
To prevent bad odors, apply a natural deodorizer like baking soda. Sprinkle a little inside the boots, let it sit for a few hours, then shake well to remove the excess. If you want to disinfect, use a gentle disinfectant spray specially designed for shoes, which will kill bacteria without damaging the materials.
Step 3: Drying
After cleaning your snow boots, the drying step should not be neglected. Improper drying can lead to unpleasant odors, deformation and even reduce the lifespan of your boots.
1. Air dry, always!
The golden rule: avoid any direct heat source! This means that you should never place your boots near a radiator , a heater , or even expose them to direct sunlight. Excessive heat can damage the materials, including seams, glues and linings, which could dry out or lose their shape. It is best to let your boots air dry in a well-ventilated area.
2. Use newspaper to speed up drying
To absorb moisture inside your boots, a simple trick is to stuff your boots with crumpled newspaper . The paper will help absorb moisture without damaging the lining. Change the paper every few hours if necessary, until your boots are completely dry. Not only is this technique effective, but it also helps to maintain the shape of the boots while they dry.
3. Avoid the hair dryer
While a hair dryer may seem convenient, it's not always the best option, especially for boots made of leather or delicate linings. If you do use it, use a low setting and avoid excessive heat.
4. Replace the soles and laces only after they have dried completely.
Before putting the soles and laces back on , make sure your boots are completely dry, both inside and out. This avoids creating a humid environment inside, which can lead to bad odors or mold.
Routine maintenance and tips
Here are some tips to follow to take care of your boots between outings.
1. Regular waterproofing
Even if you waterproof them after each cleaning, it is important to reapply a waterproofing product from time to time, especially if you wear your boots frequently. This will help them better repel moisture and snow, while maintaining their breathability.
2. Air your boots after each use
After a day in the snow or mud, your boots will probably have accumulated moisture inside. Remember to air them out by removing the insoles and opening the boots wide to let air circulate. This will prevent mold or bad odors from forming.
3. Clean the soles regularly
The outsoles of your snow boots can get clogged with mud or packed snow. Get into the habit of cleaning them regularly with a brush to maintain good traction. This also ensures that dirt doesn't damage the structure of the boot in the long run.
4. Store them properly between seasons
When winter is over, don't leave your boots lying around. Store them in a dry place, away from direct heat and light, to prevent the materials from drying out or losing their shape. If possible, stuff them with newspaper or use shoe trees to keep them in shape until next season.
With our tips, your snow boots will be ready to face any weather!
Proper maintenance helps maintain their performance and comfort, while extending their lifespan. If you are looking for boots that are both stylish and high-performance, don't hesitate to discover the Kimberfeel snow boot collection, designed to accompany you on all your winter adventures.
And don’t forget, we love seeing your hikes and getaways! Share your photos with #kimberteam on Instagram to join our community and show off where your boots have taken you!
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