subject: Practical Care Tips For Your Boots [print this page] You finally got hold of those boots that you love so much you cant ever imagine letting them go? Good news is, if treated with utmost care, your favorite pair could last for years. Heres a lowdown on how to keep your shoes, may these be casual Minnetonka Moccasins or heavy-duty John Deere working boots, in tip top shape:
1.Break them in
Prior to taking your boots on a hiking or trekking trip, or any other outdoor activity, wear them first for a week or two when youre at home or work. This softens the sole, stretches the material and improves overall damage resistance. It is also a good practice to use the pair on a regular basis. But, if possible, do not wear them for two days in a row.
2.Use them properly
Check that your boots are properly worn before you step out. When half worn, it is more likely that parts of your shoes will be deformed and damaged fast. Any laces or straps should be attached and tied securely. Be mindful also of the way you remove them. Avoid kicking your footwear into the air, as this could scratch the shoe surface. Scratches are difficult, if not impossible, to repair.
3.Clean them scrupulously
Make a habit out of cleaning your boots after every use. Your shoe tends to pick up dust and dirt throughout the day, so its best to wipe off the surface using a soft and damp piece of cloth (an old towel, rag or a pair of worn-out socks will do). Scraping away mud and other debris immediately is a definite must as these can seep into the material and leave a stain.
If the grime is more stubborn than you anticipated, adopt a more thorough approach. Shift, for one, to a soft-bristle brush and warm water. Use these with a mild soap, baby shampoo or any gentle cleaning solution. Scrub your boots in circular motion and with just the right pressure. Do not rub harder than you would your own skin. Make sure you have the entire shoe surface covered, including all cracks and seams.
Rinse off the soap via a damp washcloth or sponge. Avoid soaking or putting your footwear under a faucet.
It is advisable to dry off the boots naturally. Pat the surface dry first using an absorbent cloth. Then let it air dry for up to 24 hours. Do so in a location that is not under direct sunlight or close to any heat sources. To speed things up, pack the shoes with crumpled newspaper, replacing the stuffing once it is fully soaked.
If youre really pressed for time, you can opt to force dry air the pair. But remember, the temperature should not exceed 100 F. Anything hotter will damage your boots.
4.Condition them periodically
Once cleaned up, treat boots made of delicate leather with weather protector spray. With this, your Minnetonka Moccasins will be able to resist water spots and at the same time retain their natural feel and look. For initial use, two applications with drying time in between is recommended. Subsequent treatments can be done weekly or monthly, depending on the frequency of usage. For repelling dirt and moisture, apply shoe polish.
Leather conditioner is a common option for non-waterproof John Deere boots. But steer clear of waxes and silicones because these tend to clog the pores of leather. Go with oil-based products instead. Apply lightly and just add coatings as necessary.
5.Store them wisely
Stow your boots in a cool and dry place that has adequate ventilation. You can put them in a box, with silica gel, for moisture protection. If youre worried about your shoes getting deformed, stuff them with crumpled newspaper prior to storage.
Boots are on the pricey side, and are essentially a form of investment. Follow the simple steps above to make sure you get your moneys worth.
