The Ultimate Guide To Cleaning Camo Boat Shoes

The Sperry Men's H20 7 Seas Camo Boat Shoe is a stylish and functional shoe, perfect for boating and aquatic activities. With its hydrophobic mesh upper, it sheds water and dries quickly, making it ideal for wet environments. To keep your boat shoes in top condition, proper care and maintenance are essential. Before cleaning, remove the laces and use a shoe tree to stretch the leather, making it easier to access all areas of the shoe. Use a soft-bristled brush or a cotton chamois to apply a natural gel-based cleaner, being careful not to scratch the leather. Once clean, protect your shoes with a waterproofing spray to guard against stains and moisture. By following these steps, you can ensure your Sperry boat shoes remain in excellent shape for your adventures on the water.

Removing dust with a brush

Step 1: Prepare Your Shoes

Before you start brushing, place your boat shoes over a garbage bin or take them outside. This will prevent the dust from spreading all over your indoor space. You can also lay down some old newspaper or a dust sheet to catch the falling dust.

Step 2: Choose the Right Brush

Select a soft-bristled brush or a shoe brush with horsehair bristles. A soft brush will help you gently remove the dust without scratching or damaging the surface of your boat shoes. If you don't have a soft-bristled brush, an old toothbrush can also work.

Step 3: Start Brushing

Hold your boat shoe firmly in one hand and the brush in the other. Gently move the brush in small circular motions, working from the top of the shoe to the bottom. Pay close attention to the nooks and crannies, such as the stitching and sole edges, as dust and dirt tend to accumulate in these areas.

Step 4: Be Gentle

When brushing, use light pressure and be careful not to scrub too aggressively. This is especially important if you're using a toothbrush or a brush with stiffer bristles. You don't want to accidentally mar, scratch, or dig into the soft leather of your boat shoes.

Step 5: Brush in One Direction

If you're cleaning suede boat shoes, make sure to brush in the same direction as the nap of the suede. Brushing in different directions can make the shoes appear to be two different shades.

Step 6: Remove Stubborn Dust

If you encounter stubborn dust or dirt that won't come off with the brush, try using a pencil eraser or a rubber eraser to gently rub and lift the dirt away. You can also slightly dampen the brush with water to help loosen and remove the remaining dust particles.

Step 7: Finish with a Wipe

Once you've removed the majority of the dust with the brush, finish the process by wiping down your boat shoes with a damp cloth. This will help to pick up any remaining dust particles and give your shoes a refreshed look.

Remember, regular brushing and maintenance of your boat shoes will help extend their lifespan and keep them looking their best. By following these steps, you'll be able to effectively remove dust and keep your Sperry Men's H20 7 Seas Camo Boat Shoes in good condition.

Using a gel formula on a cotton chamois

Cotton chamois is a type of soft and absorbent cloth that is commonly used for shoe polishing and buffing. It is also often used to wipe off excess soaps, cleaners, and polishes from shoes. When using a gel formula on a cotton chamois to clean or polish shoes, follow these steps:

Before applying any gel formula to your cotton chamois, it is important to ensure that the cloth is clean and free of any dirt or debris. This will help ensure that you do not accidentally scratch or damage your shoes during the cleaning or polishing process. Hand-washing the chamois with mild soap and warm water is usually sufficient to remove any dirt or stains.

Different gel formulas serve different purposes, such as cleaning, polishing, or providing extra cushioning for your shoes. Choose a gel formula that is suitable for the specific task you want to achieve. Make sure to read the instructions on the gel formula's packaging carefully before use.

Squeeze a small amount of the gel formula onto the cotton chamois and spread it evenly across the surface of the cloth. It is important to follow the instructions on the gel formula's packaging regarding the appropriate amount to use. Too much gel can make your shoes look greasy, while too little may not provide the desired level of cleaning or polishing.

Using gentle circular motions, apply the gel formula to the shoe with the cotton chamois. For cleaning, focus on removing dirt and stains from the shoe's surface. For polishing, pay attention to creating a smooth and even finish. Ensure that you reach all the crevices and corners of the shoe for a thorough application.

After applying the gel formula, use the cotton chamois to buff your shoes to a shine. This step is especially important if you are using a polishing gel formula. Buffing will help remove any excess product and create a smooth, glossy finish on your shoes.

Once you have finished cleaning or polishing your shoes, use a separate, dry cotton chamois to wipe off any remaining residue. This will ensure that your shoes are left looking clean and polished, without any streaks or smudges.

Rinsing shoes in warm water

Rinsing your shoes in warm water is an effective way to clean your shoes, but it's important to take the necessary steps to ensure you don't damage them. Here's a detailed guide on how to do it:

Prepare the Cleaning Mixture

Create a cleaning mixture by combining a small amount of mild liquid detergent with warm water. It is crucial to use a gentle detergent to avoid damaging the material of your shoes. Avoid using bleach or harsh chemicals, as these can damage the fabric.

Fill the Tub or Sink

Fill a plastic tub or your sink with enough warm water to completely submerge the shoes. Be careful not to make the water too hot, as this could also be damaging.

Soak Your Shoes

Place your shoes in the warm water and let them soak for about an hour. This will help loosen any stubborn dirt or stains. However, if your shoes are made of suede, they should have minimal contact with water. Instead, use a suede eraser or brush to clean them.

Scrub Away Dirt and Rinse

After soaking, use a soft-bristled brush to scrub away the dirt and stains. Be gentle to avoid damaging the material. Once you're done scrubbing, thoroughly rinse your shoes with cold water to remove any soap residue.

Air-Dry

After rinsing, place your shoes in a moderately lit area at room temperature to air-dry. Avoid placing them in direct sunlight or near a heat source, as this can cause discolouration and damage to the material. Stuffing your shoes with paper towels or newspapers can help them maintain their shape while drying.

Additional Tips:

• Always check the care label of your shoes before cleaning them. Some materials, like suede and leather, require special care and should be hand-washed or spot-treated.
• If your shoes have removable insoles, take them out and clean them separately. Use a slightly soapy mixture of warm water and liquid detergent to scrub them gently with a soft brush or rag. Then, let them air-dry completely before placing them back in your shoes.
• Baking soda is great for removing odours from your shoes. Sprinkle it inside your shoes and let it sit overnight. You can also mix it with water and apply it to stubborn stains.
• For tough stains, consider using an enzyme-based stain remover before soaking your shoes.

Using a waterproofing product

To use a waterproofing product on your Sperry Men's H20 7 Seas Camo Boat Shoes, you can choose between a waterproofing spray or wax.

Waterproofing Spray

Waterproofing sprays are easy to apply but may need to be reapplied more often. To use a spray:

• Select a quality waterproofing spray that contains silicone or acrylic polymers.
• Clean your shoes with a damp cloth to remove any dirt or debris.
• Spray the entire upper portion of the shoe, including the seam where the upper connects to the outsole. Hold the can 6-8 inches (15-20 cm) away from the shoe and apply a light, even coating.
• Wipe off any excess spray with a microfiber cloth or hand towel.
• Allow the shoes to dry overnight or for at least 24 hours.
• Reapply the spray after a few uses or after 7-8 wears during the rainy season.

Waterproofing Wax

Waterproofing with wax takes more time and effort but typically lasts longer. To use wax:

• Choose a wax designed for waterproofing shoes, such as beeswax or a clear, colourless candle wax. Ensure the wax is not dyed or matches the colour of your shoe as closely as possible.
• Remove the laces and clean your shoes with a damp cloth or wash them in the washing machine with similar items. Allow the shoes to air dry completely.
• Test the wax on an inconspicuous part of the shoe, such as the inside of the heel, to ensure it doesn't stain the material.
• Rub the wax vigorously all over the outside of the shoe, forming a thick layer. Pay particular attention to areas where water tends to seep in, such as the toe, heel, sidewalls, and laces.
• Set your hairdryer to high heat and hold it close to the surface of the shoe. Wave the hairdryer over the shoe slowly, turning it as needed, until the wax melts and disappears into the shoe.
• Test the waterproofing by pouring a small amount of water on the shoe. The water should bead up and roll off. If the water is absorbed, apply another layer of wax.

Remember to reapply waterproofing products as needed, especially before the rainy season, and to break in your shoes after waterproofing to relax the material.

Cleaning the laces

To clean the laces of your Sperry Men's H20 7 Seas Camo Boat Shoes, start by removing them from the shoes. This will give you access to the entire upper surface of the shoe for a thorough cleaning. You can then use a Mr Shoe hog bristle scraper to remove dust from the laces. The hog bristles are both flexible and stiff, allowing you to get into the nooks and crannies of the laces without deforming them.

Once the laces are dust-free, you can apply a cleaning product. It is recommended to use a natural, solvent-free product to avoid altering the look and feel of the laces and causing them to dry out prematurely. A gel formula applied with a cotton chamois is ideal for effectively removing dirt without causing damage. Gently rub the gel into the laces in a circular motion until all the dirt has been removed.

Repeat this process as needed to ensure that your laces are completely clean and free of any dirt or dust. By regularly cleaning your laces and following these steps, you can help to maintain the overall appearance and condition of your Sperry boat shoes.

Frequently asked questions