Kristian Ferrell
Boat shoes are a stylish and comfortable option for those who enjoy spending time on the water. However, keeping them clean can be a challenge. In this article, we will explore the best ways to wash your boat shoes, so they continue to look great and last for many years. From removing tough stains to polishing your shoes to a shine, we will cover everything you need to know about boat shoe care. So, whether you're a serious boater or just looking to keep your favourite pair of boat shoes in good condition, read on for all the tips and tricks you need to know!
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Laces | Remove and clean separately in a bowl of cold water and dish soap. Allow to air dry for 24 hours. |
| Cleaning solution | For canvas shoes, use a mixture of warm water and liquid detergent. For leather, use a mild dish soap and water solution. |
| Brush | Use a soft toothbrush or sponge for canvas shoes. For leather, use a soft-bristled brush or a microfiber cloth. |
| Rinse | Rinse with warm water and a soft cloth. |
| Washing machine | Can be used for canvas shoes on a gentle cycle with cool water and laundry detergent. |
| Drying | Air dry in the sun, keeping insoles separate. Stuff shoes with newspaper to preserve their shape. |
| Leather conditioner | Apply a thin layer with a soft cloth and let absorb for 10-20 minutes. |
| Shoe polish | Apply with a soft cloth in a clockwise motion. Remove with a separate cloth in a counter-clockwise motion. |
| Buffing | Buff with a microfiber cloth in a circular motion. |
What You'll Learn
Removing the laces
When it comes to washing boat shoes, removing the laces is often the first step. This is because, if not cleaned properly, laces can become damaged. Leather laces, in particular, require special attention.
If your boat shoes have laces, it is recommended to pull them out before cleaning the shoes. Sperry Top boat shoes, for instance, often have leather laces that can be damaged if washed improperly or replaced before they are fully dry. To avoid this, always clean the laces separately and allow them to air dry completely before putting them back into your shoes.
Cleaning leather laces is a simple process. Start by filling a bowl with cold water and adding a small amount of dish soap. Swirl the laces around in the soapy water, ensuring they are fully coated. Rinse the laces in cold water, then set them aside to air dry for 24 hours.
If your boat shoes have fabric laces, you can follow a similar process. Create a mixture of warm water and liquid detergent in a bucket or basin. Dip a brush into the solution and gently scrub the laces. Rinse the laces with warm water, then allow them to air dry separately.
Remember, it is important to keep your laces separate from your shoes during the drying process. This will help prevent bacteria and odours from forming.
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Cleaning the laces
When it comes to cleaning the laces of your boat shoes, it's important to be cautious, especially if they are made of leather. Leather laces can be damaged if they are washed improperly or replaced before they are fully dry. To clean leather laces, start by removing them from your shoes. Then, fill a bowl with cold water and add a small amount of dish soap. Swirl the laces around in the soapy water and then rinse them off in cold water. It is important to allow the laces to air dry completely before putting them back into your shoes. This process should take about 24 hours.
If your laces are not made of leather, you can try a different approach. Create a mixture of warm water and liquid detergent in a bucket or basin. Dip a soft toothbrush or sponge into the solution and scrub the laces. If there is caked-on dirt, gently dip the laces into the water and continue scrubbing. Avoid submerging them completely, as this can lead to mildew. After scrubbing, rinse the laces with warm, clean water and allow them to air dry.
It is worth noting that some sources suggest replacing the laces if they are extremely dirty, rather than attempting to clean them. This is because some cleaning methods can cause shoelaces to fray.
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Choosing a cleaning method
The best way to clean your boat shoes depends on their material. Here are some methods for cleaning leather, canvas, and suede boat shoes.
Leather Boat Shoes
Leather boat shoes should not be washed in a washing machine. Instead, use a dedicated leather cleaner, or a mixture of water and mild dish soap. Dip a microfiber cloth into the solution and use it to clean your shoes in a circular motion. Be careful not to get the leather too wet, as this can damage the fibres. After cleaning, wipe the shoes dry with a microfiber cloth.
Canvas Boat Shoes
Canvas boat shoes can be cleaned by mixing warm water and liquid detergent in a bucket. Dip a brush into the solution and scrub the shoes. Rinse the shoes with warm water, then let them air dry. If stains remain, put the shoes in the washing machine on a gentle cycle with cool water and a small amount of laundry detergent.
Suede Boat Shoes
Suede boat shoes should be cleaned with a suede brush. Brush the shoes gently to remove dirt and dust. For stubborn scuffs, use a suede bar, crepe rubber, or a pencil eraser. Water stains can be removed by dabbing the shoes with a damp sponge, then wiping away excess moisture with a dry cloth. For oil stains, sprinkle cornstarch over the stain and let it sit for 10 minutes.
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Drying your boat shoes
Be sure to dry your shoes in a cool, dry place and avoid direct sunlight, as this can cause the leather to crack and fade. If you want to speed up the drying process, you can use a portable fan or a hairdryer on a low setting. For leather shoes, avoid applying direct heat, as this can cause the leather to crack and flake. Instead, use a soft cloth to wipe down the shoes and let them air dry.
Once your boat shoes are completely dry, you can treat them with a leather protectant or conditioner to keep the leather soft and supple and to act as a mild waterproofing agent.
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Polishing your boat shoes
Before Polishing:
- Ensure your boat shoes are made of leather. Polishing is not recommended for canvas or suede boat shoes.
- Remove the laces if your boat shoes have any. Leather laces should be cleaned separately in cold water with dish soap and allowed to air dry for about 24 hours.
- Clean your boat shoes thoroughly. Use a damp cloth or brush to wipe down the shoes and remove any surface dirt or marks. You can use a mild dish soap solution or a specialised leather cleaner.
- Allow your boat shoes to air dry completely before proceeding to the polishing step.
Polishing:
- Place a rag or drop cloth under your boat shoes to avoid making a mess or staining any surfaces.
- Apply a thin layer of leather conditioner to your boat shoes using a soft cloth. This step will help moisturise the leather and protect it from drying out, cracking, or scuffing.
- Allow the conditioner to absorb into the leather for 10-20 minutes, then remove any excess with a dry section of the cloth.
- Choose a suitable shoe polish for your boat shoes. Cream polishes are best for retaining the colour of your shoes, while wax polishes provide a shinier finish.
- Using another soft cloth, apply the polish to your boat shoes in a clockwise motion. Ensure that you work the polish evenly into the leather.
- Allow the polish to dry once it has been evenly applied to the entire leather surface.
- Use a clean, soft cloth to buff your boat shoes. Move the cloth in a counterclockwise motion to remove any excess polish and create a smooth finish.
- For an extra shine, you can apply a few drops of water to the cloth before buffing.
After Polishing:
- Allow your boat shoes to air dry for another 24 hours in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or heat.
- Stuff the insides of your boat shoes with newspaper or shoe trees to help absorb any remaining moisture and maintain their shape.
- If desired, you can apply a water-resistant product, such as mink oil or a leather conditioner, to protect your boat shoes from water damage.
By following these steps, you will be able to effectively polish your boat shoes, keeping them looking clean, shiny, and well-maintained.
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Frequently asked questions
It is recommended to clean your boat shoes daily for minimal upkeep.
First, remove the laces and soak them in a small solution of cleaner and water. Then, use a damp cloth to wipe down the shoes, ensuring they are not soaked. Next, use a circular motion to rub away any scuffs with a microfiber cloth and a solution of water and mild dish soap. Finally, dry the shoes with a separate microfiber cloth.
Mix warm water and liquid detergent in a bucket and use a soft toothbrush or sponge to scrub the shoes. Then, rinse the shoes with a soft cloth and warm water. If stains remain, put the shoes in the washing machine on a gentle cycle with cool water and half the usual amount of laundry detergent.
Use a suede brush to gently brush the shoes in the same direction to remove dust or dirt. For stubborn scuffs, use a suede bar, crepe rubber, or a pencil eraser. For water stains, dab the shoe with a damp sponge and then remove excess moisture with a dry microfiber cloth. For oil stains, sprinkle cornstarch over the stain and let it sit for 10 minutes.
After cleaning, always let your boat shoes air-dry for 24 hours. Keep them away from direct sunlight or heat, as this can cause the leather to crack and fade. To help maintain their shape, stuff the shoes with newspaper while they dry.
