How do you clean rubber boots properly?
Rubber boots are robust and practical, but they need regular care to stay durable and attractive for a long time. Here is a detailed guide to cleaning and caring for your wellies.
1. preparation: remove coarse dirt
Before you start with the actual cleaning, first remove the coarse dirt.
- Materials: soft brush, damp cloth.
- Procedure: Gently brush the boots or wipe them with a damp cloth to remove mud, soil and other dirt. Make sure to thoroughly clean all hard-to-reach areas.
2. thorough cleaning
Once the coarse dirt has been removed, it is time for a more thorough cleaning.
- Materials: lukewarm water, mild detergent, soft cloth or sponge.
- Procedure: Mix lukewarm water with a little mild washing-up liquid. Dip a soft cloth or sponge into the solution and wipe the surface of the rubber boots. Be thorough, but avoid aggressive cleaning agents as these could damage the material.
3. cleaning the inside
The inside of the rubber boots should also be cleaned, especially if they are dirty or sweaty.
- Materials: Water, mild detergent.
- Procedure: Mix water with a mild detergent and clean the inside of the boots. Then rinse thoroughly to remove all soap residue. If necessary, use a bottle brush to clean hard-to-reach areas.
4. drying the rubber boots
After cleaning, the rubber boots must dry properly.
- Procedure: Allow the rubber boots to air dry. Place them upright in a well-ventilated place. Avoid direct heat sources such as heaters or blazing sun, as these can make the material brittle.
5. care and shine
Regular care is necessary to maintain the shine of the rubber boots and keep the material supple.
- Materials: special rubber care product or vegetable oil, soft cloth.
- Procedure: Apply a special care product for rubber or a little vegetable oil to the boots with a soft cloth. Polish them gently to remove excess oil and restore the shine.
6. storage of the rubber boots
Proper storage is crucial to prolong the life of your rubber boots.
- Procedure: Store the boots in a cool, dry place. Avoid direct sunlight and extreme temperatures, as these can damage the material.
Additional tips
- Prevent dirt: Use gaiters or mud flaps to keep your boots cleaner when you are out and about in muddy conditions.
- Regular care: Clean and care for your rubber boots regularly to prolong their lifespan.
- Remove odors: Sprinkle some baking soda into the boots and leave it to work overnight to remove unpleasant odors.
