Western styles have been on the rise for some time. According to Fenzyme, it is the perfect time to add a few Western motifs to your wardrobe, like some nice cowboy boots. The only thing you have to do is learn how to care for them, so they last for decades.
Why is Care Important?
Care is vital for this type of footwear because the materials are natural, and that means they can degrade if you neglect them. Now, caring for your boots is not too hard. Just remember to clean and moisturize them. The trick is to do this properly to keep your cowboy boots looking great.
Cleaning is important to ensure that the microscopic fibers of the boot aren’t damaged. That kind of damage could end up drying out the boot’s material. Dryness ends up degrading your boots, so making sure they are clean and properly conditioned is the way to go.
Steps to Help Care for Your Boots
Now, you know why caring for your cowboy boots is important. Sure, maintenance sounds like a chore, but our stylish boots are worth the effort. The following are simple steps to help keep your boots in good condition:
Cleaning
What you want to do is get a clean, damp cloth. You can also use a soft brush. All you have to do now is clean off any dirt or dust you see. Stuck grime may require something like a toothbrush. Of course, tough spots may need something like saddle soap or a good leather shoe cleaner. Keep in mind that suede cannot be cleaned this way.
Conditioning
The next thing you want to do is add a little bit of conditioner to your boots. A quarter-sized amount should do, and apply that to your boots with a clean cloth. Try to massage the conditioner into the boot as best you can. Boots that are too dry will suck up the conditioner rather quickly, meaning you’ll have to add a second coat.
Polishing
The last thing you should do is polish your boots. The reason this is important is because it helps restore that shine you love to see on leather. It also ensures that your shoe is protected against the elements. You cannot escape dirt, debris, and other natural elements, so this is the best thing you can do to protect your boots.
Keep in mind that cowboy boots with a finish can be polished. Boots without a finish just need to be conditioned. It should also be pointed out that snakeskin boots cannot be polished with colored polish.
Cleaning is just part of what you have to consider. You also need to worry about storage. Cowboy boots need a place that will allow them to breathe that is away from direct sunlight. Ideally, you want them in a cedar box since cedar helps to absorb excess moisture; this environment is also dark and breathable.
Be sure to contact a specialist if you have any questions or you don’t feel comfortable doing this on your own.