Two pairs of hiking boots worn by two people balance on the edge of a rock. The front most pair have vibrant purple laces

How To Clean And Care For Your Walking Boots

For the adventure-seekers, off-road path takers, and Sunday walks to the pub goers - no matter your outdoor adventure, you need a trusted pair of walking boots worthy of every trip. But even the toughest boots need a little TLC. Mud, rain, rocky paths, and daily wear can take their toll, leaving your boots looking tired and performing below their best. The good news? With just a bit of regular care, you can keep your boots comfortable, waterproof, and ready for whatever the trail throws at you.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about cleaning and caring for your walking boots-from quick cleaning tips after a muddy hike to expert advice on waterproofing and storage.

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Why Walking Boot Care Matters

Quality walking boots are designed to withstand tough conditions, but mud, moisture, and neglect can quickly break down even the best materials. Regular cleaning and care will:

Extend the lifespan of your boots.
Maintain their waterproofing and breathability.
Preserve comfort, support, and fit.
Prevent odours, mould, and bacteria build-up.
Save you money in the long run.

Well-maintained boots provide better grip, reduce the risk of blisters, and ensure your feet stay dry and comfortable, mile after mile.

Essential Boot Cleaning Kit

Soft brush (old toothbrush or specialist boot brush)
Medium-stiff brush for soles
Mild soap or specialist boot cleaner (Nikwax, Granger’s, etc.)
Lukewarm water
Microfibre cloth or sponge
Newspaper or absorbent paper towels
Waterproofing treatment (cream, wax, or spray suited to your boot material)
Optional: Absorba Balls or boot trees

Step-By-Step: How To Clean Walking Boots

1. Preparation: Remove Laces and Insoles

Remove laces to access all areas and prevent tangling.
Take out the insoles to allow thorough cleaning and drying.
Wash laces in warm, soapy water or a laundry bag in the washing machine.
Rinse insoles and let them air dry- never use direct heat.

2. Remove Dirt & Mud

Tap boots together outside to dislodge loose mud and stones.
Brush off dried dirt with a soft brush, focusing on seams and eyelets.
Use lukewarm water for stubborn dirt. Avoid hot water, which can damage adhesives and materials.

3. Clean Uppers (By Material)

Boot Material	Cleaning Method
Leather	Soft brush, damp cloth, leather cleaner
Suede/Nubuck	Suede brush, minimal water, specialist cleaner
Synthetic/Hybrid	Soft brush, mild soap, rinse well

4. Clean Inside

Rinse with lukewarm water and a drop of mild soap if needed.
Do not soak-just a quick wipe is enough.
Let dry thoroughly before reinserting insoles.

5. Clean Soles

Use a stiff brush or pointed tool to remove mud, stones, and debris from treads.
Rinse under running water if necessary.

Two brown boots worn by someone perching atop a mossy branch

How To Waterproof and Condition Your Boots

Why Waterproofing Is Essential

Preserves water repellency and keeps your feet dry.
Protects materials from damage and extends boot life.
Improves breathability by preventing dirt build-up in membranes.

Choosing the Right Waterproofing Product

Boot Material	Recommended Treatment
Leather	Conditioning cream, wax (e.g., Granger’s G-Wax, Nikwax Waterproof Cream)
Suede/Nubuck	Specialist suede/nubuck spray or gel (e.g., Nikwax Footwear Cleaning Gel)
Synthetic/Hybrid	Fabric & leather proof sprays (e.g., Nikwax Fabric & Leather Proof)

How To Apply Waterproofing

Apply to damp boots (after cleaning, before fully dry) for best absorption.
Use a soft cloth or applicator to spread cream, wax, or spray evenly, paying attention to seams and stitching.
Let boots dry naturally after treatment.
Check for beading: Water should form droplets on the surface when the treatment is effective.

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FAQs

Clean your boots after every walk, especially if they’re muddy or wet, to prevent dirt buildup and material damage.

No, never use a washing machine-it can damage the materials and adhesives. Always clean boots by hand.

Remove insoles, stuff boots with newspaper or use a non-heated boot dryer, and let them air dry at room temperature. Avoid direct heat sources like radiators or fires, which can damage boots.

After cleaning and drying, apply a suitable waterproofing product (wax, cream, or spray) for your boot material, focusing on seams and stitching. Allow to dry naturally.

For leather: use a soft brush and damp cloth, and a specialist leather cleaner if needed. For synthetic: use mild soap and a soft brush. Always rinse off cleaning products and avoid soaking either type.

Use a soft or medium brush, mild soap or specialist boot cleaner, and the correct waterproofing treatment for your boot material (wax/cream for leather, spray for synthetics).

Store boots in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated place, away from direct sunlight and heat. Stuff with newspaper or use boot trees to help retain their shape.