Cowboy Boot Care

Knowing how to clean and condition leather boots will help you get the most out of your boots. You can increase the lifespan of your boots by checking regularly for dry leather.

The easiest way to tell when leather is starting to dry out is by looking for blotchy or faded colors and an uneven surface texture. If your leather cowboy boots have already gotten to this point, it’s not too late to save them by cleaning and applying a high-quality leather conditioner.

Use a clean cloth or paint brush to dislodge any dirt or debris from your boots. Be sure to brush all of the crevices, such as embroidery, patches and pull straps. Then apply a high-quality leather cleaner to a soft cloth and clean the entire leather surface of your cowboy boots.

Once your boots are clean, allow them to dry completely (usually 20-30 minutes), then use a leather conditioner. Keeping your boots cleaned and conditioned, especially when new, is critical to getting soft, broken in leather.

Exotic boots, like those made from ostrich, caiman/alligator and pirarucu, may require more frequent care. Exotic boots can be cleaned, conditioned and stored in the same way as cow leather boots. Just make sure the cleaners and conditioners you’re using have been tested on that particular type of leather.

Finally, a big part of cowboy boot care is storing them correctly. When your cowboy boots aren’t busy in the dirt, they should be kept indoors, away from moisture and in an upright position. To keep the shaft upright and prevent the toes from curling up, use a boot tree. A well made cedar boot tree will also help dissipate excess moisture left in your boots after a hot, sweaty day. This helps to prevent mold, mildew and funky smells.

With the right kind of care, your boots can last a lifetime.