If you frequently use your hunter boots, they will eventually get dirty no matter how careful you are. Fortunately, you can restore their condition to ensure shoes that feel and look good. Below are some techniques on how to clean hunter boots.
I like wearing my favorite pair of hunter boots in different situations, including trekking the mountains, tending to my garden, and even performing farm tasks. So, it would not surprise me how dirty my hunter boots can get. With that said, it is a must to clean your boots regularly if you want to ensure comfortable and fashionable wear.
Below, I will walk you through the proper ways on how to clean hunter boots. I will thoroughly discuss each method on how to keep scuff marks, rubber blooms, and foul odors at bay.
I will also share some tips on how to store your boots after use. This way, you can learn how to preserve the great condition of your footwear.
So, without further ado, let us get on with the article!
What Are the Tools Needed To Clean Hunter Boots?
You do not need to have a lot of tools when you want to clean your dirty hunter boots. Typically, all you need are the following:
- Water
- Dish soap or detergent powder
- Clean cloth
- A scrubbing brush
- A basic eraser (preferably in the color white)
- An empty water spray bottle
You can easily find most of these items at the nearest grocery establishment or convenience store. Shopping online at sites like Amazon is also a great alternative if you do not want to go out.
How Do You Clean Mud Off Hunter Boots?
If you use your hunter boots when tending to your garden or farm, you probably experience getting mud on them. This sludge is relatively difficult to clean, especially when it has already dried off on the surface of your boots. Fortunately, there is still a way to clean mud from hunter shoes.
Start by removing any excess dirt and mud. You can do this by grabbing each boot on the toe area and banging their heels together. You can expect any caked-on dirt or mud to loosen and fall on the floor.
Once you are certain that there is no excess soil, you can grab an empty spray bottle. Fill it with warm water and add a teaspoon of dish soap or detergent powder. Shake the bottle to mix the ingredients properly.
Then, you can spray the mixture liberally to the entire upper surface of the hunting boots. Do not forget to spritz the solution to the soles as well. Wait for at least three minutes, so the exterior material can effectively absorb the cleaning solution.
After that, you can use a cleaning cloth to wipe the dirt and soapy mixture away. You can begin at the shaft and rub your way down, finishing right at the soles. It is also best to rinse the cloth in-between wipes when it gets too dirty. And when necessary, you can also spray more water and soap onto the hunting boots.
If you are satisfied with the cleanliness of the hunting boots, you can proceed to dry them. Simply place them in a cool and dry place, preferably in areas with good ventilation. Avoid putting the hunting shoes in direct sunlight because the heat will damage the rubber exterior.
How To Remove Scuffs on Hunter Boots?
When your hunting boots repeatedly undergo stress and friction, it is likely possible that scuff marks will show up. These stains are unsightly to look at.
Fortunately, it is easy to remove scuffs on hunter boots. Simply grab a rubber eraser, preferably a white one, if you can. Then, use it to remove the marks on the surface of your boots. After that, you can grab a clean cloth to wipe the debris away.
If you encounter stubborn scuff marks, consider creating an abrasive paste as an effective hunter boot cleaner. Mix warm water with baking soda. Then, use a brush or clean cloth or microfiber towel to wipe this baking soda solution on the boot exterior. Do not forget to dry the boots overnight before wearing them.
How To Remove the Bloom from Hunter Boots?
Most hunter boots feature a high-quality natural rubber exterior. This material allows insoluble particles to rise to the surface, which leaves a white powdery film on your boots. The formation of this white bloom is a completely normal process.
Just like scuff marks, it is relatively easy to remove white bloom from your rubber boots. Hence, you can ensure clean hunter rain boots that look just as good as the day you bought them.
All you have to do is wipe the hunter boots in a circular motion using a damp cloth. Then, store them in a cool and well-ventilated area to dry. Avoid placing them under direct sunlight because the heat can damage the rubber material.
If you still notice any white residue or rubber bloom, you can create a do-it-yourself cleaning solution. Mix warm water with dish soap. Then, spritz this mixture over the entire surface of your hunting boots to remove the natural rubber bloom.
How To Clean the Interior of the Boots?
Besides the exterior, it is also essential to clean the interior of your hunting boots. That is because sweat is likely to accumulate inside the shoes, especially if you use them daily. This wet spot can create an ideal breeding ground for bacteria, fungi, and even viruses. So before any of these bad things occur, prevent them by ensuring your boots are clean.
The first thing to do to clean your hunter boots is to take out their insoles. You can throw them into the laundry and wash them with your hand. You can use a mild detergent to remove any stubborn stains or sticky residue from the insoles. After washing, make sure to rinse the boots thoroughly to avoid soapy residue. Then, store them in a cool place for 24 hours to make them dry.
As for the other interior parts of the hunting rubber boots, you can create a cleaning solution for them. In an empty spray bottle, you can mix equal amounts of water and soap. Shake the bottle, then spray the solution on the entire inside of the boots. Try your best to reach the toe area because that is where most of the sweating accumulates.
Once you have sprayed the interior, you can take a clean cloth, microfiber cloth, or paper towel. Use it to dry any excess water or moisture around the area. Finally, make sure to leave the boots to air dry in a cool place.
I also recommend wearing socks when you use your hunter boots. These can help remove the moisture inside your boots and keep unpleasant odors at bay. Just avoid leaving wet socks after wearing your boots because they can become a thriving spot for bacteria and mildew.
How To Store Your Boots After Wear?
After wearing your boots for long adventures, it is best to clean them right away. Wipe any dirt, dust, or any debris that might be sticking on the exterior surfaces of the hunting boots.
Then, you can store the shoes in a well-ventilated area. You can hang them near the door using boot clips or slip them upside down on a boot rack. You can also simply set them upright on a tray. Regardless of where you plan to store the boots, remember to avoid direct sunlight and any artificial heat sources.
If the hunting boots get wet, it is best to pop a few silica packets inside. You can also use cedar ball sachets to absorb the excess moisture inside the boots.
How To Store Your Boots for the Season?
Personally, I do not use my hunting boots throughout the year. I only wear them for a certain season, like fall or winter. Hence, I keep them stored away and unused for the rest of the year.
If you intend to do the same thing, make sure to clean the hunting boots first. It is also best to buff and shine them, so they can remain in optimal condition and shape.
Then, you can place them in a cool, dry, and dark area. Make sure to store them upright and undisturbed until you are ready to use them again for the next season.
You might also want to put a few cedar balls or sweet-smelling sachets that are made just for boots. Doing so can keep your hunting footwear dry and safe.
Conclusion
Rubber hunter boots are durable and versatile, ideal for use on different adventures. But if you want them to last you for a long time, it is best to clean them regularly.
Hopefully, this article helped you learn the proper ways on how to clean hunter boots. So, in case you encounter blooms or scruff next time, you already know what to do to remove these unsightly marks. You can ensure your feet are dry while still maintaining that fashion edge.