Clean Winter & Snow Boots in the Washing Machine

When your boots have seen better days, it's tempting to toss them aside and invest in a new pair. But hold on—before you give up on them, have you considered the magic of washing them in your washing machine? You might be surprised at how a good wash can restore your boots to their former glory. Whether you're wondering how to wash boots in the washing machine, this guide will help you get them looking fresh and ready to wear again.

Boots, especially those that see a lot of action during the colder months, can get dirty and worn out. Mud, snow, salt, and even rain can leave marks and grime that can be tough to scrub out by hand. The washing machine is not only efficient but can save you time, effort, and even money that might have been spent on cleaning products or professional services.

But before you toss your boots in, there are a few things to know to make sure the process is smooth sailing.

Before you start thinking about how to wash boots in the washing machine, take a good look at the material. Not all boots are the same, and some may be too delicate for machine washing. Here are a few materials that can generally handle a machine wash:

1. Canvas: A sturdy, lightweight material often used in casual boots. It holds up well in the washing machine.
2. Leather: While leather boots can be cleaned in the machine, they should be washed carefully and treated with extra attention.
3. Synthetic Fabrics: Many snow and winter boots are made from synthetics like nylon or polyester, which are safe to wash in the machine.

However, be cautious with materials like suede or genuine leather. If your boots are made from these materials, it's best to clean them manually with a brush or special leather cleaner. The washing machine can damage these types of boots, leaving them looking worse than before.

Before you toss your boots into the wash, there are a few steps you can take to ensure a successful clean. The goal is to protect the boots while they're getting cleaned.

1. Remove Loose Dirt and Debris: Remove any dirt, mud, or debris that's stuck to the boots using a soft brush. This will prevent the dirt from creating a mess in the washing machine.
2. Take Out the Insoles: To help your boots dry faster and keep the insoles from getting ruined, take them out before washing them. This also allows the insoles to get a deeper clean.
3. Tie the Laces: If your boots have laces, tie them securely to avoid tangling in the machine. You should tuck them inside the boots to keep them in place.
4. Check for Any Loose Parts: If there are any straps or buckles that could come off in the wash, it's better to remove them or secure them tightly. You don't want to risk losing any pieces.
5. Use a Laundry Bag: Place the boots in a laundry bag to provide extra protection. This will help prevent the boots from getting banged up in the machine and keep them from losing their shape.

Now that your boots are ready, it's time to figure out how to wash boots in the washing machine correctly. The key here is to choose the right settings while the goal is to clean the boots thoroughly without subjecting them to too much stress.

1. Use a Gentle Cycle: Opt for a gentle or delicate wash cycle. This setting uses slower agitation and less intense spinning, which is perfect for protecting your boots from damage.
2. Cold Water is Best: Hot water can cause adhesives in your boots to break down or warp the material. Stick to cold water for the wash to keep the boots intact.
3. Use Mild Detergent: Harsh detergents can damage the material. Choose a mild detergent that's gentle enough for the boots.
4. Avoid Fabric Softeners: Fabric softeners can leave a residue that might impact the waterproof properties of your boots, especially if they are meant to keep moisture out.

Once your boots are washed, the next step is getting them dry. It's tempting to throw them in the dryer, but this can be damaging, especially if the boots are made of synthetic or leather materials. Instead, follow these steps for optimal drying:

1. Air-dry Your Boots: After washing, remove the boots from the laundry bag and set them somewhere safe to air dry. Let them dry naturally at room temperature. Never place boots directly in the sun, as excessive heat can crack or warp the material.
2. Stuff with Newspaper or Towels: To help your boots retain their shape and speed up the drying process, fill them with crumpled newspaper or towels. This will remove moisture from the inside and help them dry more evenly.
3. Avoid Direct Heat Sources: Do not use a heater, hairdryer, or radiator to speed up the drying process. Extreme heat can cause shrinkage, warping, or damage to the materials.

Winter boots can take a real beating, with salt stains, snow, and ice often leaving their mark. If you're trying to figure out how to wash winter boots in the washing machine, the process is similar to regular boots but with a few extra considerations:

1. Waterproofing is Key: Many winter boots come with a waterproof coating that can be compromised if washed improperly. After washing, reapply a waterproof spray to restore the boots' water resistance.
2. Extra Dirt Removal: If you've worn your boots in the snow, you might have salt stains. Before washing, treat these stains with a mixture of vinegar and water in a 50-50 ratio to help lift the marks.

If you're looking to clean your snow boots, you might be wondering about the best approach for this type of footwear. Snow boots are designed in a way that keeps your feet warm and dry, but they also tend to pick up grime from wet, snowy conditions. Here's how to wash snow boots in the washing machine without causing any harm:

1. Check for Waterproof Lining: Make sure the inner lining of your snow boots is securely in place before washing. Many snow boots have a waterproof coating that should not be disturbed.
2. Use the Lowest Spin Cycle: Snow boots are often heavier than regular boots, so use the lowest spin cycle possible to prevent damage.
3. Dry Thoroughly: Like winter boots, snow boots need to be dried properly. Don't rush this process. Air drying is always the safest option for boots that need to maintain their shape and function.

So, there you have it! Now you know how to wash boots in the washing machine without the hassle. Whether it's your everyday boots, winter boots, or snow boots, this simple process can bring your footwear back to life. Just remember to check the material, use the right settings, and be gentle with the drying process. With a little care, your boots will be fresh and ready to wear for another season.

Source:

https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/food-science/vinegar