One of the most important care tips to remember is the value of brushing your boots! A good brushing before and after each wear will remove dust and dirt that settles in the pores of the skin. If left on the boot it begins to act as an abrasive, especially in exotic skins where dirt can settle in the “hinge” areas between the harder scaly parts.
Boots need a good cleaning and conditioning ever so often. Begin by removing loose dirt and dried mud with a damp cloth, followed by a good brushing of the boot. Next, apply a good conditioner. Most conditioners have enough cleaner built into them to remove any remaining dust and dirt.
While the leather is still moist, apply a leather balm. Once the balm has dried, it should be buffed with a soft cloth. The final step is to apply a boot cream and buff. As a pointer on the boot cream color for older boots, choose a cream a shade or two darker than the color of the boot. Leathers fade slightly as they age and this will return them to their original color. You should use matching color cream with newer boots.
Exotic leathers do not require any special treatment. However, their deeper textures and harder surfaces do not absorb conditioner and cream as quickly. Apply these in several thin layers rather than all at once.
Be sure that your customers know how to brush and condition all the way to the sole line. Many people forget that area which can cause it to crack or pull away at the sole. Speaking of the sole, if a boot has a leather sole, it should also be conditioned. This increases the life of the sole because it restores moisture and deters cracking.
Stubborn stains may require a little extra to remove. Sticky spots such as dried soda or alcohol can be removed by using a small solution of equal quantities of water and vinegar. Most scuffs and marks can be removed with a pencil eraser. It is important to remind your customers that while conditioning or if boots get wet, they need to allow them to dry away from direct heat.
Some customers will insist on using a boot wax. This is not really necessary except where a spit shine is needed. The wax can be applied over the cream. Another product that is sometimes used on boots is saddle soap. This is not recommended, but if a customer intends on using it, be sure to tell them not to let it dry on the boots. Saddle soap should be wiped off wet. Mink oil is another product frequently used. If will waterproof boots, but it also seals the pores and eventually causes cracking. Is not recommended for boots.
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