THE RULES THAT APPLY TO CARE AND CONDITIONING OF BOOTS ARE VERY SIMPLE.
TREAT YOUR LEATHER goods in much the same manner as you treat your skin. Your leather products require nutrients to keep them supple and strong.
The four steps for proper boot care are:
CLEAN, CONDITION, POLISH & PROTECT.
DIRT AND DUST are leather's worst enemies. Wiping down often with a damp cloth can prevent dirt and dust from cutting away at the microscopic fibers that make leather strong and durable.
CONDITION LEATHER only when it is clean and dry so conditioner can penetrate through the pores to keep leather soft and pliable. Lanolin based conditioners are best. Too much oil or wax can clog the pores, which cause the leather to dry out. Also, oils and waxes attract dust.
REJUVENATE BOOTS by applying a cream based polish. This will cover scratches and bring a glossy finish. Only boots that have a finish can be polished.
PROTECT BOOTS with a non-silicone water and stain protector.
EXOTICS:
ALLIGATOR,CAIMAN,KANGAROO,LIZARD,OSTRICH,PYTHON,SHARK,STINGRAY
• Brush off dirt or dust with a damp cloth or soft brush.
• Apply an exotic leather conditioner in several thin layers.
• Apply a neutral or matching cream based polish, buff with a soft cloth.
NOTE: NO POLISH ON RATTLESNAKE
• Apply an non-silicone water and stain protector.
NOTE: On snakeskin be sure to go with the grain of the scales.
SMOOTH LEATHERS:
KIDSKIN, BRUSH-OFF, CORONA
• Brush off dirt or dust with a damp cloth or soft brush.
• Apply a leather conditioner.
• Apply a neutral or matching cream based polish, buff with a soft cloth.
• Apply a non-silicone water and stain protector.
NAKED FINISH:
DEER TANNED
• Brush off dirt or dust with a damp cloth or soft brush.
• Apply a non-silicone water and stain protector.
OIL MPREGNATED LEATHERS:
CRAZYHORSE, DISTRESSED, EARTHNITE, OILY
• Brush off dirt or dust with a damp cloth or soft brush.
• Apply a leather conditioner.
• Apply a non-silicone water and stain protector.
Buffed/Sueded Leathers:
Treat new boots with a non-silicone water and stain protector.
• Brush to clean
• Apply a non-silicone water and stain protector.
MORE HELPFUL TIPS:
Use edge dressing to make outsoles and heels look new. Let boots dry at room temperature, never dry over direct heat. Do not store in cold or damp places, boots can mildew. Use boot trees to help maintain boot's shape.