How to Clean Your Winter Boots and Finally Get Rid of Salt and Slush Stains

Winter slush can leave its mark on all types of boots. The combination of dirt, mud, salt, and other chemicals can discolor leather, suede, and canvas boots, and even leave a haze on rubber boots. Learn how to easily clean winter slush and salt stains from all types of boots.

How to Clean Winter Stains From Leather Boots

1. Dry and Remove Loose Soil. Before you attempt to clean and remove winter stains from leather boots, it's best to allow them to air-dry slowly away from direct heat. Use a boot tree, pool noodle, or sturdy cardboard tube to help them hold their shape. When dry, knock them together a couple of times over a trash can to get rid of mud and dirt stuck in the soles.
2. Clean and Treat Water and Salt Stains. Use a damp cloth to wipe down the entire boot to remove any dust and dirt on the leather. Mix one-half cup of distilled white vinegar and one-half cup of water. Use a soft cloth to rub the solution evenly onto the stains. Let it work for about five minutes to dissolve the salt and then wipe it away with a damp cloth. Allow the boots to air-dry away from direct heat.
3. Condition the Leather. When the boots are dry, use a leather conditioner or sealant to keep the leather soft and supple. Follow the product instructions and be sure the boots are dry before wearing them again.

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How to Clean Winter Stains From Suede Boots

1. Treat Wet Boots. If areas of suede boots are wet, use a white cloth or a sponge dipped in cold water to evenly wet the boots all over to prevent watermarks and stains. Use a boot tree or rolled-up white towel to support the boots while they dry away from direct heat. Use a suede brush to lift the nap.
2. Get Rid of Salt Stains. Mix 1 cup of water and 1 tablespoon of distilled white vinegar and wipe the salt-stained area with the vinegar solution using a white cloth or a cotton ball. Once the acetic acid in the vinegar has dissolved the salt, use a white cloth or a sponge dipped in cold water to wet the boots all over evenly. Allow the boots to air-dry.
3. Complete an Overall Cleaning. Use a suede brush to remove dust and loose dirt from the dry boots. Use a commercial suede cleaner following the label directions to remove embedded soil. When the boots have dried, lift the matted nap with a soft-bristled suede brush.

How to Clean Winter Stains From Canvas Boots

Most fabric boots are made from waxed canvas to help them resist moisture. While non-waxed canvas shoes can be machine-washed, canvas boots should only be cleaned by hand. If the boots begin to leak, the canvas can be rewaxed with a commercial product like Otter Wax.

1. Wipe Away Mud and Dirt. The water-repellent qualities of waxed canvas also repel dirt so any mud or slush can be wiped away with a damp cloth. Allow the boots to air dry away from direct heat sources.
2. Treat Salt and Dirt Stains. Any remaining salt or dirt stains can be cleaned with a solution of warm water and a few drops of gentle soap like Castile soap or dishwashing liquid. Gently scrub the area with a soft cloth dipped in the soapy water. Wipe with a damp cloth to rinse and allow the boots to air dry.

How to Clean Winter Stains From Rubber Boots

1. Rinse Away Soil. One of the great qualities of rubber boots or Wellies is the ability to rinse away winter slush, salt, and mud with plain water. If there is still some dirt clinging to the rubber, use warm soapy water (a few drops of dishwashing liquid works great) and a soft cloth to wipe down the boots.
2. Air Dry Naturally. Empty any water from the inside of the boots and allow them to air dry. Remove all insoles to air dry separately.
3. Remove White Haze. Rubber boots can develop a white powdery residue when the natural oils in the rubber 'bloom' on the surface. This residue can be wiped away with a damp cloth.