Boots are an essential part of any wardrobe, but they are also one of the most susceptible to damage if not properly taken care of. The most important thing to consider while taking care of boots is drying them properly.
Moisture can cause damage to the leather, lining, and sole of the boot. Thus, it is leading to premature wear and tear, bad odor, and discoloration. If you want to ensure that your boot stay in good condition, it is important to follow the right techniques to dry them while protecting them from any damage. Here, we will discuss the right ways to dry your boots:
- Remove the Insoles and Laces
Before you begin the drying process, remove the insoles and laces from your boots. It would help in better circulation of air and let boot dry quickly. Laces and insoles can also hold moisture for a long and that’s why it is really important to remove them and dry them properly. It is recommended that you should wash and dry your shoes’ laces and insoles separately. It will let your shoes dry quickly.
- Towel Dry
The first step in drying your boot is to towel dry them thoroughly. You need to use a clean towel to get rid of the excess mixture from your boots. Be sure to get into all the crevices and folds of the boot to remove as much moisture as possible. If your boot are wet, you may need to use several towels to dry them completely. Towels can help in removing excess water from your shoes and help in quickly drying your shoes.
- Air Dry
After towel drying, it is essential to air dry your boots. One of the best things to do is place your boot inside a ventilated region. But you should keep it away from heat sources, sunlight, and fans. Also, you can use newspaper to stuff your boot and absorb excess moisture without affecting the shape of your boot. Avoid using a heater or placing the boots near a fireplace as this can cause the leather to become brittle and damaged. This technique helps in quickly removing the moisture while preventing your boot from producing a foul smell.
- Use a Boot Dryer
If you need to dry your boots quickly, you can use a boot dryer. A boot dryer is a device that uses warm air to dry your boots from the inside out. It is an excellent option for people living in areas with high humidity. Boot dryers are available in various shapes and sizes, from portable models to ones designed for industrial use.
You should read instructions to prevent your boots from damage. Nowadays, there are portable dryers that are also available in the market. These are lightweight and compact so that you can easily take them with you wherever you want and keep your boots dry throughout the journey.
- Condition the Leather
Although your boots have dried completely, it is essential to condition the leather to prevent cracking and discoloration. Leather conditioners contain natural oils that nourish and protect the leather from damage. Apply a small amount of conditioner to a clean, dry cloth, and rub it gently onto the surface of the boot in circular motions.
Be sure to cover the entire surface of the boot, including the sole and the heel. Allow the conditioner to penetrate the leather for a few minutes before wiping off any excess with a clean, dry cloth. It will help in increasing the durability of your shoes and you can keep them with you for a long.
- Store Your Boots Properly
After properly drying and conditioning your wet boots, it is essential to store them properly to prevent any further damage. Store your boots in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, heat sources, or moisture. Use a boot tree or stuff them with newspaper to help them retain their shape.
Avoid stacking your boots on top of each other because this can cause the leather to deform and become damaged. Proper storage plays a very important role in protecting your shoes. You should never store your wet boots because they will start deteriorating. It is important to properly dry your shoes with the help of a portable 12-volt boot dryer.
Final Words
In conclusion, proper boot care is essential to ensure that your boots stay in good condition and last for many years. Drying your wet boots properly is an essential aspect of boot care. Follow the techniques mentioned above to ensure that your boots dry without causing any damage to the leather, lining, or sole. With proper care, your boots will remain in excellent condition for a long time.
