Kids’ shoes are subject to a lot of wear and tear. From playground scuff marks to getting wet in the rain, their shoes need to be protected. Regular cleaning is vital to keeping your kiddos’ boots looking brand new. Follow these tips for keeping your kids’ boots looking their best all winter!
Keep Them Clean
Keeping kids’ boots clean isn’t just crucial for how they look; it extends the life of their shoes. Dirty shoes can cause the materials to break down over time, leading to cracks and tears. It also harbors bacteria and fungi that can cause funky smells in the shoe. Cleaning boots for kids is simple, especially if you’ve got a pair designed to stand up to tough messes. Start by wiping off the outside with a medium bristle brush, and be sure to get the treads. Once the muck is off, wipe the inside of the boot with an old towel bathed in warm water. If there’s a lot of moisture in the boot, you can stuff them with crumpled newspaper and leave them to dry in front of a fan. You can also use a natural leather conditioner, sealant, or wax to help restore the integrity of your child’s boots and make them more waterproof. These products are available at most shoe stores and online.
Wipe Them Down Regularly
Keeping kid’s boots clean and odor-free is hard, but regularly cleaning them is essential. Dirty shoes are breeding grounds for fungi and bacteria, which can cause irritation, itching, and discomfort. Start by drying the shoe’s exterior and removing any dried salt or mud. A small brush or toothbrush can help get into those harder-to-reach spots on the stitching and welt, but be careful not to damage the leather. If the shoe is stained, try a solution of equal parts white vinegar and water. Avoid rubbing or scraping the stain with a cloth dipped in the solution, as this could result in more damage. Wipe with a dry towel and allow to air dry.
A solution of equal parts liquid heavy-duty laundry detergent and water for rubber boots will remove heavy dirt or winter salt buildup. You can also mix a non-biological soap liquid and warm water solution or use a wipe to restore the boot’s original appearance. If the shoes have a white coating, this is called blooming and happens with natural rubber products over time.
Keep Them Aired Out
If your kids are prone to jumping into puddles or spending much time outdoors, their boots will probably get pretty wet occasionally. To help them last longer and keep your kiddos’ feet dry, it is a good idea to look for water-resistant snow boots with removable liners to clean them thoroughly. If you don’t want the rubber to shrink and crack, store them somewhere cool and dark (a regular coat closet works well) and away from prolonged exposure to sunlight. If they’re not being worn, it is also a good idea to stuff them with newspaper as this helps absorb odor-causing moisture and sweat that can accumulate in the shoes.
You can also keep your kiddos’ boots smelling fresh by spraying them with an odor-removing spray. Alternatively, you can use a mixture of one teaspoon of liquid heavy-duty laundry detergent and two cups of warm water to clean the interior of your shoes. Once you’ve done this, remember to let the air dry away from direct heat, which can cause the rubber to shrink and crack.
Keep Them Dry
If your kids have to wear boots in rainy or snowy weather, it’s essential to ensure they are dry. A pair of boots with a tall cuff that cinches around the ankle is ideal, as this will keep the shoes dry from snow and rain. You can also treat leather boots with a waterproofing spray that restores their waterproofness and protects the fabric. Nubuck and suede require a different treatment, though. To avoid damaging their soft clothes, blot any wet stains and allow them to dry completely before wearing them again. Stuff them with crumpled newspaper or another absorbent material like a towel to speed up drying. You can even add a cedar, lavender, or plain baking soda sachet to freshen the shoe‘s interior. Leave the boot stuffed overnight or longer and empty it before wearing it again. You should also avoid using direct heat to dry your boots. Placing them in front of a fire or over an oven may seem like a quick and easy way to dry them, but it will damage the fabric or leather by melting or warping them.
Don’t Store Them in The Sun
When your child’s boots get wet, please don’t leave them lying in the sun to dry. Because of this, the rubber could crack and deteriorate. Rather, suspend them in an area with ample ventilation and let them to dry for a couple of days. They will feel like new and it will help keep them from smelling unpleasant.
Avoid storing them in below-freezing conditions as well, since this can lead to the rubber drying up and becoming less flexible. Additionally, it may cause the boot’s leather components to shrink and crack. To maintain their brand-new appearance, your children’s wellies need to be cleaned and stored properly on a regular basis. By following these easy steps, you may increase their lifespan and maintain their distinctive beauty for as long as possible.