Walking boots should be your best friend when exploring the mountain landscapes of the UK. From the grand, lonely, hills of the Scottish Highlands to boggy days on Dartmoor, your boots can take a hammering.

To keep them in good shape and make them last as long as possible, regular and effective care is essential.

In this guide, we’ll explain why cleaning and reproofing your boots is important, how to do it effectively, and the best products to use.

Emma’s top tips at the end of the blog…

Why Clean Your Walking Boots so Often?

Walking boots face tough conditions in the UK, from muddy trails to acidic soils. Here’s why keeping them clean is so important…

• Prevents Material Damage: Mud, grit, and acidic soil can break down leather and fabric over time.
• Maintains Waterproofing: Dirt can clog waterproof membranes, making your boots breath less effectively.
• Extends Lifespan: Well-maintained boots last longer, saving you money over time.
• Keeps Boots Comfortable: Clean boots stay breathable and warm – so your feet stay happy on long days out.

How to Clean Your Walking Boots

Step 1: Rinse After Every Walk

After each day out, give your boots a thorough rinse with water, if you have a boot brush outside somewhere – even better. This is especially important in areas like Scotland, North Wales or the Peak District, where acidic soils can harm the leather and stitching.

Step 2: Scrub Off Dirt and Mud

Use warm water and a stiff brush to remove mud and debris. Avoid detergents, as they can strip natural oils from the leather. For a deeper clean, try a specialist cleaner like Nikwax Footwear Cleaning Gel.

Step 3: Dry Them Slowly

Let your boots dry at room temperature. Never place them near direct heat sources like radiators or fires, as this can crack the leather and damage the waterproof lining. If they’re soaking wet, stuff them with newspaper to absorb moisture.

Re-Waterproof Your Walking Boots

Waterproofing wears off over time, leaving your boots vulnerable to water. Here’s how to restore their water resistance:

Step 1: Choose the Right Product

• For Leather Boots: Use a wax-based product like Grangers Waterproofing Wax or Meindl Sportwax
• For Suede or Nubuck Boots: Opt for a spray or sponge-on solution like Nikwax Fabric & Leather Proofer.

Step 2: Apply the Waterproofing Treatment

• For Waxes: Use a brush or your fingers to apply the wax evenly, focusing on flex points to prevent cracking.
• For Spray and Sponge Applicators : use evenly, all over the boot, ensuring full coverage.

Step 3: Let Them Dry

Allow the product to soak in completely before wearing your boots again. Wipe off any excess to avoid buildup.

Why Acidic Soil is a Problem for Walking Boots

In many UK mountain regions, especially those with peat bogs, the soil is highly acidic. This can damage stitching and break down waterproof membranes over time. Rinsing your boots after every walk helps remove acidic residues and prolongs their life.

FAQs About Walking Boot Care

How often should I clean my walking boots?

Ideally, after every walk, especially if they’re muddy or wet.

How do I dry wet walking boots?

Let them air dry naturally at room temperature. Stuff them with newspaper to absorb moisture, and avoid direct heat.

Can I put my walking boots in the washing machine?

No, this can damage the waterproof lining and weaken the boot’s structure.

How often should I reproof my boots?

Every month or so, or when water stops beading on the surface.

Emma’s Top Tips – Caring for Walking Boots in North Wales

It’s not always practical to clean my boots every time I use them.

BUT – I do always rinse them well if they’ve been immersed in ‘peat sludge’ or touched salt water.

I find that, if I leave my boots out on the Kitchen table, they magically clean themselves. That probably happens once a week.

I’m told that cleaning involves a good scrub with some Nikwax cleaning gel and then a sponge (while they’re still wet) with Nikwax fabric and leather proof.

Wild Wales in North Wales

Wild Wales helps people have brilliant adventures in North Wales.

We specialise in Mountain Walking and Wild Swimming.

Here’s a link to our Swim Retreats: https://shorturl.at/klt1W

Here’s a link to our single day adventures, Mountain Walking and Swimming: https://shorturl.at/LxA2S