Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a beginner, clean hiking shoes are essential. Not only do they help protect your feet from dirt and debris while on the trail, but they also make sure your feet are comfortable. But how can you maintain the appearance of your shoes and keep them brand new? Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to clean hiking shoes.
Are Hiking Shoes Washable?
Proper footwear is essential if you’re an avid hiker or enjoy the occasional trek. However, when it comes to hiking shoes, it can be tricky knowing whether you can keep them clean and looking sharp by washing them in your home washer.
Ultimately, it depends on the material of the shoe itself; if your hikes most often take place in dry terrain, a leather or suede shoe should not go anywhere near a washing machine. However, mesh fabric hiking shoes are likely washable for those who love adventures with mud and rain thrown in – but check the instructions beforehand!
It’s always best to find exactly what your shoes need and take extra precautions rather than push our luck.
Also Read: How Long Do Hiking Shoes Last?
How To Clean Hiking Shoes | Pro Guide
Before you begin cleaning your shoes, it’s essential to follow these steps for preparation:
Step 1: Remove the laces from each shoe and set them aside in a safe place.
Step 2: Gently remove any debris or dirt from the outside of the shoe with a soft brush or cloth. Make sure to be gentle so that you don’t damage the material of the shoe.
Step 3: If needed, dampen a cloth with warm water and wipe down both sides of the shoe. This will help loosen any dirt or mud that may be caked onto it.
Step 4: Allow your shoes to dry thoroughly before cleaning.
Now that your shoes are prepped and ready for cleaning, here are some tips on how to proceed:
Also Read: Can You Wear Hiking Shoes Every Day?
Cleaning Leather Shoes
If your hiking shoes are made of leather, it’s best to invest in a leather cleaner for cleaning leather items such as shoes and jackets. A quality leather cleaner will safely remove dirt and grime and condition the material so that it stays soft and supple over time. Follow these steps when cleaning leather hiking boots:
Step 1: Apply a small amount of leather cleaner directly onto the shoe’s surface with a soft cloth or brush (if applicable). Make sure to spread it evenly across both sides of each shoe so that all areas are covered with an even layer of cleaner.
Step 2: Use another clean cloth dampened with warm water to gently rub off any dirt or mud on the surface of each shoe until no residue remains visible on either side of each boot.
Step 3: Dry off each boot with another clean towel until both sides are completely dry before wearing it again.
Step 4: Repeat this process every few months (or as often as needed) to maintain their appearance.
Also Read: Are Hiking Shoes Good For Walking?
Cleaning Non-Leather Shoes
If your hiking boots aren’t made out of leather, then use an all-purpose cleaner instead, such as saddle soap or mild dish detergent mixed into warm water to clean them properly without damaging their material or coloration over time; follow these steps when cleaning non-leather hiking boots:
Step 1: Dampen a soft cloth in mild dish detergent mixed into warm water and gently scrub both sides of each boot until no residue remains visible.
Step 2: Rinse any remaining residue with cold water before placing them in direct sunlight until they are scorched.
Step 3: Apply a small amount of all-purpose cleaner onto another clean, dampened cloth and rub it onto both sides of each boot until evenly covered.
Step 4: Wipe off any excess moisture using another clean towel until both boots appear completely dry before storing them away.
Step 5: Repeat this process every few months (or as often as necessary) to maintain their appearance.
Also Read: How Should Hiking Shoes Fit?
Conclusion
Now you know, How To Clean Hiking Shoes. Whether you have leather or non-leather hiking shoes, there is always an effective way to keep them looking like new! By following these simple tips outlined above, you can ensure that your shoes stay in excellent condition for years to come—allowing you many more enjoyable hikes! So grab those laces back up again and hit the trails! Happy hiking!