To clean leather boots, brush off dry dirt, wipe them with a damp cloth and a little leather cleaner or mild soap, let them dry naturally away from heat, then condition and wax the leather. This guide covers smooth leather boots, plus what to do differently for nubuck and suede.
Last updated November 2026.
What you need
- A soft brush and a horse-hair or shoe brush
- A damp cloth and a dry cloth
- Leather cleaner or mild soap
- Newspaper
- Boot wax or conditioner, such as Redback Boot Wax or Hoggs of Fife H-Wax Reproof
How to clean smooth leather boots, step by step
- Remove the laces. This lets you clean the tongue and eyelets.
- Brush off dry mud and dust. Use a stiff brush on the welt and sole, and a softer brush on the leather.
- Wipe with a damp cloth. Use lukewarm water. Add a little leather cleaner or mild soap for stubborn marks. Do not soak the boots.
- Dry naturally. Stuff the boots with newspaper and leave them in a warm, airy room. Keep them away from radiators, fires and direct sun, which can crack the leather.
- Condition the leather. Once dry, apply a thin layer of conditioner or wax with a cloth to keep it supple and water-resistant.
- Buff and re-lace. Buff with a clean cloth or brush and put the laces back in.
How to clean nubuck and suede boots
Nubuck and suede need a different approach. Do not use wax, which can darken and flatten the surface. Instead, let any mud dry, then brush it off with a suede brush. Use a suede cleaner on stains and a water-repellent spray to protect the finish, such as the Hoggs of Fife Universal Protector spray. Always check the maker's care instructions for your boot, such as the Dolomite Vernale or Treksta Heathfield.
Gore-Tex lined leather boots
A Gore-Tex lining sits inside the boot, so you clean the outside as normal. Keep boots clean and conditioned so the leather and breathable panels can do their job, and follow the care advice for your boot. Read what Gore-Tex is for more.
How often should you clean leather boots?
Brush off dirt after muddy walks. Clean them properly when they look dirty, and condition them every few weeks if you wear them regularly, or at the start and end of winter if you do not.
Leather boot care FAQ
Can you wash leather boots in the washing machine?
No. Machine washing can damage leather, glue and linings. Clean them by hand.
Can I dry leather boots on a radiator?
No. Fast heat dries out leather and can make it crack. Dry them slowly at room temperature.
What is the best way to waterproof leather boots?
Clean and dry them, then apply a wax or proofer designed for leather. Our how to waterproof boots guide has the steps.
How do I clean salt marks off leather boots?
Wipe the marks with a cloth dampened in a mild mix of water and a little white vinegar, then dry and condition the boots.
Can I use the same method for wellies?
No. Rubber needs different care. See how to clean wellies.
Related guides
- How to Clean Boots & Wellies
- How to Clean and Care for Blundstone Boots
- Redback Boots UK Guide
- Best Walking Boots UK
Shop boot care
Browse our walking boots. More guides are in The Field Guide.
Need help?
Questions about caring for your boots? Email help@4elementsclothing.co.uk and we will be happy to help. Orders placed before 3pm Monday to Friday (10am Saturday) are dispatched the same day.
