How to clean and care for your hiking boots.

Knowing how to take good care of your hiking boots is key if you want to get maximum performance out of them season after season.

How to clean hiking boots.

The best way to clean your hiking boots will depend on the material they’re made of. Before you clean them, check the product care instructions for expert recommendations as well as any substances to avoid. Generally speaking, a few common rules apply to most boots manufacturers and brands. 

How to wash hiking boots. 

Remove the laces and any insoles. Then, use a boot brush to remove any dried mud and dirt and clean out small crevices. If you don’t have a boot brush, an old vegetable brush or toothbrush works, too. If you’re cleaning your boots outside, using the high-pressure function on your gardening hose is also a great way to remove stubborn dirt. 

Once you’ve removed any excess dirt or mud, run the boots under hot water (not boiling or scalding) and use a cloth along with a cleansing agent to clean the fabric. 

How to dry hiking boots. 

Let your boots air dry at normal or room temperature in low humidity. If you need to speed up the process, place them in front of a fan or a cool, dry spot outside. Avoid applying extra heat sources like hairdryers, fireplaces or heaters. Exposure to high temperatures can affect the performance and integrity of the materials. 

You can also stuff your boots to ensure they maintain their shape as they dry. If you do this, it may be worth removing the stuffing towards the end of the drying process so that the insides can dry thoroughly, too. 

How to waterproof hiking boots. 

Many of The North Face hiking boots are already waterproof, so there’s no need to add additional waterproofing. However, you can use a silicone-based waterproofing agent for any leather footwear that isn’t waterproof. There are many different products available on the market and it’s always worth checking the care guidelines for your boots to see if there are specific recommendations. 

How to store your hiking boots. 

Once your boots are fully dried, pop the laces back on and re-insert any insoles. Now they’re ready to be stored. Whether your boots are placed by the door or in your wardrobe, ensure that they’re in a cool and dry place. Other than that, they’re pretty low-maintenance. 

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