Cleaning Leather Boat Shoes: A Step-By-Step Guide

Leather boat shoes are an investment, and with the right care, they can last for years. Cleaning leather boat shoes is simple, but it's important to remember that leather should not be treated in the same way as fabric, nubuck, or suede. In this article, we will discuss the dos and don'ts of cleaning leather boat shoes, including removing laces, using the right cleaning products, and protecting your shoes from future wear and tear.

Remove laces and clean separately

When it comes to cleaning your leather boat shoes, the first step is to remove the laces and clean them separately. This is because the laces are often made of leather or rawhide and require different cleaning methods.

To clean leather laces, fill a bowl with cold water and add a small amount of dish soap. Swirl the laces in the soapy water, ensuring they are fully coated. Rinse the laces under cold running water, removing any excess soap. Allow the laces to air dry for at least 24 hours.

If your laces are made of rawhide, as is common with Sperry boat shoes, the process is similar. Place the rawhide laces in a bowl of cold water with a small amount of dish soap and swirl the mixture. Rinse the laces with clean water and let them air dry for a full day.

It is important to clean your laces separately from your shoes to ensure they are thoroughly cleaned and have time to air dry. This will help prevent any unwanted odours caused by moisture trapped in the laces.

By taking the time to properly clean your laces, you can ensure they remain in good condition and extend the overall lifespan of your leather boat shoes.

Use a damp cloth to wipe down shoes

To wash leather boat shoes, it's important to first remove the laces, as they will need to be cleaned separately. Then, use a damp cloth to wipe down the shoes. It's best to use a microfiber cloth, and it should only be damp, not soaking wet.

Leather boat shoes should not be washed with water, as this will dry out the natural oils that add shine and lustre to the leather. However, a damp cloth can be used to clean any surface debris or markings. For tough stains, additional steps may be required. For example, salt stains can be removed with a mixture of two parts water and one part vinegar, while other types of stains can be removed with soap and cold water.

Once you've wiped down the shoes with a damp cloth, use a brush and a small amount of dish soap to remove any remaining dirt or scuffs. Be sure to brush in the same direction as the leather's grain to avoid leaving scars.

After cleaning, it's important to dry your leather boat shoes properly. Allow them to air-dry for 24 hours in a cool, dry place away from heat or sunlight. You can stuff the shoes with newspaper to absorb excess moisture and help maintain their shape.

Use a mild detergent to remove tough stains

To remove tough stains from your leather boat shoes, you can use a mild detergent. Before you begin, check the tag for manufacturer cleaning instructions. It's also important to categorise common stains based on their origin: water, oil, grease, ink, and dyes. Each type of stain can have a distinct impact on leather and may require specific cleaning techniques to maintain the material's integrity and appearance.

For water stains, gently blot excess moisture using a clean, absorbent cloth. Let your leather shoes air-dry naturally, away from direct heat sources. This method helps the leather recover its original appearance without rushing the process.

For ink stains, dampen a cotton swab with rubbing alcohol or a mild soap solution. Gently dab the stain, carefully rinse the area with clean water, and pat it dry using a soft cloth. Ensure you don't rub the stain further into the leather.

When dealing with oil and grease stains, sprinkle cornstarch or baking soda on the affected area. Allow it to sit for a few hours to absorb the oil. Once absorbed, brush off the powder and wipe gently with a clean cloth.

Additionally, you can use a mild grease-fighting dish soap to remove grease stains from pigmented leather. Blot as much grease as possible from the area using a dry microfiber cloth. Mix a few drops of dishwashing liquid with water to create a lather. Dampen your microfiber cloth with this solution and gently dab the stained area, working in one direction. Then, dampen a fresh cloth with distilled water and dab the leather to remove any traces of the cleaning solution. Finally, blot the area dry with another microfiber cloth and repeat the process if necessary.

It's important to note that you should avoid using too much water when cleaning leather boat shoes, as excessive wetness can make the leather fibres less supple.

Dry shoes with newspaper

Stuffing your leather boat shoes with newspaper is an effective way to dry them without causing damage. It's also a great way to remove any odours. Here's a step-by-step guide:

• Start by removing the laces and insoles from your shoes. The insoles can be air-dried separately or placed near a fan to speed up the process.
• Stuff the shoes with crumpled-up newspaper, making sure to hide any areas with excessive ink, as this may leave marks on your shoes. Pack the paper all the way into the toe of the shoe.
• Wrap a towel or sheet around the outside of your shoes to absorb any moisture from the outer areas.
• Place your shoes in a dry, well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight. You can also put them near a fan or vent with warm air to speed up the drying process.
• After an hour, remove the newspaper and stuff the shoes with fresh, dry paper. Leave for a few hours.
• Repeat the process until your shoes are completely dry. This usually takes 8-12 hours in total, but may take longer depending on how wet your shoes are.
• Once dry, your shoes will be ready to wear again!

Apply leather conditioner

Once your leather boat shoes are dry, it's time to apply a leather conditioner. This step is important as it helps to protect the surface of the leather from stains. Using a soft cloth, gently apply a thin layer of conditioner to the leather of your shoes. Allow the conditioner to absorb into the leather for around 10-20 minutes. After this, use a dry section of the cloth to remove any excess conditioner.

It is recommended to use a leather conditioner specifically designed for shoes, such as Sperry leather lotion, to ensure the product is suitable for the material. This will help to ensure your leather boat shoes remain in good condition.

If you don't have access to a leather conditioner, you can use a small amount of leather polish as an alternative. Apply the polish in a thin layer with a soft cloth, working it into the leather in a circular motion. Once you have applied the polish evenly, allow it to dry, and then use a clean cloth to buff your shoes to a shine.

It is important to note that leather conditioners and polishes may cause discolouration, so it is recommended to test the product on a small area of the shoe first. Additionally, always ensure your shoes are completely dry before applying any conditioner or polish to avoid trapping moisture inside the shoe, which can lead to the growth of microorganisms and cause unpleasant odours.

Frequently asked questions