Photos by: Courtney Ledden (@courtney.ledden)
Hiking boots are one of the most crucial pieces of gear for any outdoor adventure. Keeping them clean and well-maintained ensures they last longer and perform better. At Valhalla Pure Outfitters, we recommend using high-quality aftercare products like Nikwax or Grangers for the best results.
Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to clean your hiking boots using these trusted products.
Why Clean Your Hiking Boots?
Regular cleaning of your hiking boots is essential for several reasons:
- Longevity: Dirt and grime can degrade the materials, shortening the life of your boots.
- Performance: Clean boots perform better, offering better grip and water resistance.
- Comfort: Removing dirt and sweat ensures your boots remain comfortable and free from odors.
What You’ll Need
- Nikwax Cleaning Gel or Grangers Footwear + Gear Cleaner
- Soft Brush or Sponge
- Lukewarm Water
- Clean Cloth
- Old Newspaper or Boot Shapers (optional, for drying)
- Nikwax or Grangers Waterproofing Treatment** (optional, for reproofing)
Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Your Hiking Boots
- Prepare Your Boots
- Remove Laces and Insoles: Take out the laces and insoles. This allows you to clean all areas of the boots thoroughly and prevents the laces from getting soaked.
- Shake Off Loose Dirt: Knock your boots together to remove loose dirt and debris. You can also use a soft brush to get rid of any remaining loose dirt.
- Clean the Boots
- Wet the Boots: Use lukewarm water to wet the entire surface of the boots. This helps to loosen dirt and prepare the boots for cleaning.
Apply Cleaner: Apply Nikwax or Grangers Cleaner directly to the boots. Follow the instructions on the bottle for the appropriate amount.
- Scrub Gently: Use a soft brush or sponge to gently scrub the boots. Pay extra attention to areas with heavy dirt or stains. Be sure to clean the seams and any crevices where dirt can accumulate.
- Rinse Thoroughly
- Rinse with Clean Water: Rinse the boots with clean, lukewarm water to remove all traces of the cleaning gel and dirt.
- Check for Residue: Ensure there is no leftover cleaner on the boots, as this can attract more dirt.
- Dry the Boots
- Pat Dry with a Cloth: Use a clean cloth to pat the boots dry. Avoid using a heat source like a hairdryer, as this can damage the materials.
- Stuff with Newspaper: Stuff the boots with old newspaper or use boot shapers to help maintain their shape and absorb moisture from the inside.
- Air Dry: Let the boots air dry in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight or heat sources. This can take up to 24 hours, depending on the conditions.
- Reproof Your Boots (Optional)
- Apply Waterproofing Treatment: Once the boots are completely dry, you can apply a waterproofing treatment to restore their water repellency. Use a product like Nikwax Waterproofing Wax for Leather or Grangers Footwear Repel, following the instructions on the bottle.
- Allow to Dry: Let the waterproofing treatment dry completely before using the boots. This ensures the treatment sets properly and provides maximum protection.
Additional Tips for Boot Care:
- Regular Cleaning: Clean your boots after every few uses, especially after muddy or wet hikes.
- Store Properly: Store your boots in a cool, dry place. Avoid leaving them in damp environments or direct sunlight.
- Inspect Regularly: Check for signs of wear and tear, such as damaged seams or worn-out soles, and address these issues promptly to extend the life of your boots.
Recommended Hiking Boot Cleaning Products from VPO.ca
At Valhalla Pure Outfitters, we offer a range of high-quality aftercare products for your hiking boots:
Nikwax Cleaning Gel: An effective cleaner for all types of boots, designed to remove dirt and revive breathability.
Nikwax Waterproofing Wax for Leather: Restores water repellency and prolongs the life of leather boots.
Grangers Footwear + Gear Cleaner: A powerful cleaner suitable for all boot materials.
- Grangers Footwear Repel: A spray-on waterproofing treatment that restores the water repellency of your boots.
Grangers Waterproofing Wax: A soft, easy-to-apply wax, with natural beeswax, ensuring durable water-repellency and nourishment for all leather footwear.
Proper cleaning and maintenance of your hiking boots are essential for ensuring they perform well and last for many adventures. By following these steps and using high-quality products like Nikwax or Grangers, you can keep your boots in top condition.
Visit VPO.ca to explore our selection of aftercare products and get expert advice from our team. With the right care, your hiking boots will continue to support you on all your outdoor journeys.
Happy hiking #valhallakindom!