How To Clean Sorel Boots Like a Pro

Introduction

Hey there, fellow Sorel boot lovers! If you’re anything like me, you know that a good pair of Sorel boots can be your best friend during those chilly winter months. 

But, as we all know, with great boots comes great responsibility, such as keeping them clean and well-maintained. That’s why I’m here to share some of my tried-and-true tips on how to clean Sorel boots.

Trust me, with some care and attention, your Sorels can look as good as new and serve you well for many winters. So, let’s get started, shall we?

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• What are sorel boots and their materials that need to be cleaned?
• How To Clean Sorel Boots
  • Preparing For Cleaning
  • Gather the Necessary Materials
  • Check the Care Instructions on the Boots 
  • Remove Dirt and Debris from the Boots 
  • Cleaning Solutions
  • Cleaning Process
  • Drying Sorel Boots
• How to Clean The Outside Of Sorel Boots?
• How To Clean Sorel Boot Liner?
• How Do You Wash Sorel Slippers?
• How To Clean Sorel Slippers From Salt And Grease?
• Can I Machine Wash My Sorel Slippers?
• Conclusion
• FAQ

What are sorel boots and their materials that need to be cleaned?

It’s important to know what sorel boots are before cleaning them. Also, you should know what material needs to be cleaned on these boots. Sorel boots are highly regarded for their durability and ability to withstand harsh winter conditions. They are constructed from various materials contributing to their functionality and style.

Some common materials used in Sorel boots include:

1. Waterproof leather: This is often used in the upper part of the boot to provide a robust barrier against moisture.
2. Oiled leather: This type of leather has been treated with oils to enhance its water resistance and durability.
3. Dry-tanned leather: This traditional method of making leather results in a strong, dense material.
4. Nubuck: Nubuck is a leather sanded or buffed on the grain side to give it a slight nap of short fibers, resulting in a velvet-like surface.
5. Suede leather: Soft and flexible material made from the underside of the hide.

Each of these materials requires specific cleaning methods to maintain their quality and prolong the lifespan of the boots. General cleaning involves removing dirt, dust, or debris with a dry cloth, using a damp cloth to wipe down shoes, and letting them air dry.

How To Clean Sorel Boots

Maintaining your Sorel boots is important to maximize their life and preserve their appearance. These boots often brave tough weather conditions to collect dirt, mud, and debris. Cleaning them requires a gentle but potent solution that removes dirt and stains without harming the boot’s material. Here’s a step-by-step guide to cleaning your boots:

Preparing For Cleaning

Before you start cleaning, you need to prepare your boots. Listed below are the preparation steps you need to take before cleaning your boots.

Gather the Necessary Materials

To start the cleaning process, make sure you have the necessary materials. You’ll need the following items:

• A soft-bristled brush
• Mild soap or detergent
• A clean and damp cloth
• A dry and clean cloth
• Leather conditioner (optional, but recommended for leather Sorel boots)

Check the Care Instructions on the Boots

You should always check care instructions on the boots because different Sorel boots may have different care instructions based on the materials they’re made from. It’s always a good idea to check these instructions before cleaning. They can usually be found on the boot’s label or the manufacturer’s website.

Remove Dirt and Debris from the Boots

Before applying any cleaning solution:

1. Remove as much dirt and debris as possible from your boots.
2. Brush the boots lightly with a soft-bristled brush, paying special attention to the seams and crevices where dirt can easily accumulate.
3. Remember to remove the laces so you can clean every part of your boots effectively.

Cleaning Solutions

Option 1: Using a Mild Liquid Soap My go-to choice for a reliable cleaning solution is a mild liquid soap. It’s a simple, cost-effective option that I’ve found very effective over the years.

1. Mixing the Cleaning Solution: I personally prefer to mix warm water with a few drops of soap. Stir it until it forms a soapy mixture. The key here is to ensure the water isn’t too hot, as it can damage the boots’ material.
2. Applying the solution to the Boots: Dampen a gentle cloth in cleaning solution and wipe it over the surface of the boots. I tend to pay special attention to particularly dirty or stained areas.
3. Spot Cleaning Tough Stains: For more stubborn stains, I apply a small amount of soapy water directly onto the stain and gently scrub it with a soft brush. This has worked wonders for me on numerous occasions!

Option 2: Using Sorel Boot Cleaner or Gentle Leather Cleaner (for leather boots) When my boots need more care, especially leather ones, I opt for a specialized cleaner like the Sorel boot cleaner or a gentle leather cleaner.

1. Preparing the Specialized Cleaner: I follow the instructions on the cleaner bottle, which usually involves shaking it well before use.
2. Applying the cleaner to the Boots: Using another soft cloth, I apply the cleaner to the boots, again focusing on any particularly dirty or stained areas. I’ve found that this method gives my boots a deeper clean and helps maintain the quality of the leather.

Remember, the goal here is to clean your boots without damaging them, so always make sure the cleaning solution won’t discolor or damage your boots. I’ve followed these steps for years, and they’ve helped keep my Sorel boots looking their best.

Cleaning Process

Cleaning Sorel boots involves several steps. Read below how I clean my sorel boots.

Scrubbing the Boots 

The first step in my cleaning routine is scrubbing the boots. I use a soft-bristle brush to give undeniable results in removing any loose dirt or debris from the boots’ surface. This process helps to prep the boots for a more detailed clean.

Focusing on Stained or Heavily Soiled Areas 

Next, I pay special attention to stained or heavily soiled areas. Using a cloth dipped in my selected cleaning solution (mild liquid soap or a specialized boot cleaner), I gently dab and rub these areas to break down the dirt or stains. Remember, the key is to be gentle and not to damage the boots’ material.

Rinsing off the Cleaning Solution 

Once satisfied that I’ve addressed all the problem areas, I rinse off the cleaning solution. This can be done by dampening a clean cloth in warm water and wiping down the boots. It’s important to ensure all soap or cleaning solution is thoroughly rinsed off to avoid leaving any residue.

Wiping Away Residue 

The final step in the cleaning process is wiping away any remaining residue. I used a dry, soft cloth to wipe down the boots one last time. This step ensures that no soap or cleaning solution is left on the boots, which could potentially leave marks or damage the material over time.

Always let your boots air dry naturally after cleaning them. You should never use heat to speed up the drying process, as it could cause the materials to crack or warp. With this process, I’ve found that my Sorel boots stay clean, fresh, and ready for my next adventure.

Drying Sorel Boots

It’s important to let your boots dry naturally. To dry Sorel boots, follow these steps:

Patting the Boots Dry with a Towel 

After cleaning, I start the drying phase by gently patting the boots dry with a soft and absorbent towel. This helps to remove excess water from the surface of the boots and speeds up the overall drying process. However, it’s important not to rub the boots harshly as this could damage the material.

Avoiding Direct Heat Sources 

While it might be tempting to place your boots near a heater or use a hairdryer to speed up the drying process, I’ve learned that this is a big no-no. Direct heat can cause the boots’ material to dry out, leading to cracks or warping. Therefore, when drying, I always keep my boots away from direct heat sources.

Air Drying in a Well-Ventilated Area 

The best way to dry your Sorel boots, in my experience, is to let them air dry naturally in a well-ventilated area. This means placing them in a room with good airflow but not directly under a fan or air conditioner. It might take a little longer, but this method ensures the boots dry evenly and maintain their shape and quality.

Remember, patience is key when drying your boots. By rushing the process, you might cause damage that might be irreversible. Following these steps ensures your Sorel boots are properly cared for and last for many seasons.

How to Clean The Outside Of Sorel Boots?

You can easily maintain the surface of your Sorel boots if you know what type of boot you own. Before initiating the cleaning routine, identify the material used on the outer part of your boot. You can follow the instructions below on how to clean sorel boots outside depending on the type of material your boot is made from:

Waterproof Leather

1. Remove dirt, dust, and debris using a medium-bristle brush.
2. The boot’s exterior should be wiped down with a damp cloth and lukewarm water.
3. Make sure the boots are dry before you wear them. Place them in a cool, dry place for a few hours.

Oiled Leather/Dry Tanned Leather

1. Dust, dirt, and debris should be removed with a dry cloth from the boot exterior.
2. Dip a clean cloth into a leather cleaner, applying a small amount to the cloth.
3. Gently rub the cloth against the leather exterior in a circular motion, careful not to use too much cleaner.
4. Dampen a cloth with water to remove any leftover residue.
5. Let the boots air dry in a dry area for a few hours or overnight.

Nubuck/Suede Leather

1. It is possible to clean surfaces with soft brushes to remove dirt, dust, and debris. Brushes designed specifically for nubuck/suede are best.
2. Try to avoid getting the boot wet as it can alter the appearance of the leather material.

Remember, it’s crucial to know what type of material your boot is made from before beginning the cleaning process. If you need help, go to the Sorel online store and search for your shoe to find the material in the product description.

How To Clean Sorel Boot Liner?

Cleaning your Sorel boot liners can help prolong their life and keep your feet fresh. Here’s a simple guide on how to clean them:

1. Remove the Liners: Carefully remove the liners from the boots. You can then clean the boots thoroughly without damaging the outer part of the boots.
2. Hand Wash: Place a small amount of mild soap in warm water and then wash your hands. Submerge the liners fully in soapy water. Gently agitate the water with your hands to clean the liners.
3. Rinse: After washing, rinse the liners thoroughly under running water to remove all soap residues. Make sure the water runs clear before you finish rinsing.
4. Dry: Do not wring out the liners as it may damage their shape and insulation properties. Instead, gently squeeze out the excess water and lay them flat on a clean towel. Roll up the towel with the liners inside to absorb more water. Finally, unroll the towel and leave the liners out of direct sunlight and heat until they are completely dry.
5. Reinsert the Liners: Once they are completely dry, you can reinsert them into the boots.

How Do You Wash Sorel Slippers?

Until now, I have talked about how to wash sorel boots. Now let’s talk about sorel slippers. Cleaning Sorel slippers involves a few simple steps. 

Begin by removing any loose dirt or grime with a soft brush. Then, create a mild cleaning solution by mixing lukewarm water and a small amount of gentle detergent. Apply the solution to the slippers using a soft cloth and gently scrub to clean. 

Rinse the slippers thoroughly under running water until all soap residue is removed. Refrain from immersing them completely in water. 

Finally, let the slippers air dry outdoors before applying heat or sun. Always check the manufacturer’s care instructions before cleaning, as some materials may have specific washing requirements.

How To Clean Sorel Slippers From Salt And Grease?

Sorel slippers can be cleaned from salt and grease in a few different ways than usual.

To remove salt stains, you’ll need to create a solution with 10% ammonia diluted in a ratio of 1:4 with water. Apply this solution sparingly using a soft cloth, ensuring not to soak the material. Gently scrub the salt-stained areas until the stains are gone.

For grease stains, it’s recommended to blot the stain first to remove any excess grease. Then, apply a talcum powder or cornstarch layer over the stained area and let it sit for a few hours. The powder should absorb the grease, making it easier to remove. Afterward, gently brush off the powder with a soft brush.

Remember to always remove dirt, dust, or debris with a dry cloth before starting the cleaning process. For regular maintenance, use a clean cloth dipped in leather cleaner all over the shoes, then wipe them down.

Always let your slippers air dry outdoors away from sunlight and direct heat after cleaning. It’s also important to check the manufacturer’s care instructions, as some materials may have specific washing requirements.

Can I Machine Wash My Sorel Slippers?

The most important thing to you need to remember when cleaning Sorel slippers is never to machine wash or dry them. According to the information provided on Sorel’s official website and other sources, Sorel recommends cleaning your slippers by hand using a mild, phosphate-free soap diluted in water.

You should avoid immersing your Sorel slippers in water completely. If you spill something on your slippers, clean them as soon as possible to prevent the stain from setting.

For a deeper cleaning of the insides of your slippers, use baking soda. Sprinkle a small amount into each slipper and tap the sides to distribute the baking soda evenly. This will help absorb odors and lift any dirt or stains.

Conclusion

You don’t need a lot of time and effort to clean your Sorel boots. With the right approach and materials, you can keep your boots looking their best and extend their lifespan. Remember to avoid machine washing and drying and instead go for gentle hand cleaning with a mild, phosphate-free soap. 

Don’t fully submerge your boots in water; ensure they dry naturally away from direct heat and sunlight to prevent material warping or shrinking. 

For stubborn stains or odors, baking soda can be a great ally. While it might take some effort, the result will be worth it — clean, comfortable boots ready to brave any weather. 

Regular care and maintenance of your Sorel boots enhance their appearance and ensure durability and performance.

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FAQ