Rain, snow, sleet, hail, ice, salt—winter poses a lot of threats to keeping your shoes in peak condition! No matter what you’re wearing this season, read on to find out how to clean your shoes in winter.
Water Resistant vs Waterproof: What’s the Difference?
When you buy a pair of winter boots (or even some athletic styles), you may see them described as either “water resistant” or “waterproof.” Here’s the difference:
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Water Resistant shoes are made to repel most water but are not intended to be completely impervious to moisture. These shoes are best for light precipitation or for walking in predominantly dry conditions.
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Waterproof shoes are built to completely repel water. (Of course, no material is perfect, but these will be as close as you can get.) These are the boots you’ll turn to in heavy snow or when walking in very wet conditions.
Both types of shoes are effective in winter weather; your primary consideration should simply be how wet you expect them to get. For day-to-day life, you’re probably set with water-resistant. If you’re looking to go hiking or shovel the driveway during a storm, waterproof is the best choice.
If you’re looking for your next pair, we recommend checking out our waterproof women’s boots and waterproof men’s boots online or in store. Keeping your feet dry is as easy as a new fit!
If you already love your current shoes (boots or otherwise), improve their water-resistance by consistently applying a water repellent spray.
How to Clean Salt Stains Off Shoes
Generally, we recommend using a dedicated salt stain cleaner to remove stains from shoes. However, if you’re in a pinch, here’s a quick treatment method that should do the trick.
- Wait until your shoes are completely dry.
- Stuff your shoes with paper towel or newspaper to help them keep their shape.
- Mix a 2:1 solution of water to white vinegar.
- Dampen a cloth with your cleaning solution.
- Starting at the outside of the stain moving inwards, gently scrub at the salt until it disappears.
- Blot out excess moisture with another cloth or paper towel.
- Let your shoes air dry in a cool, dark place—NEVER apply heat with a blow dryer, and avoid direct sunlight in order to avoid shrinkage.
Before following these instructions, always check the cleaning instructions and material list on your shoes. If you’re working with leather, suede, or athletic shoes, read on to find out how to care for those styles specifically.
After you finish cleaning your shoes, prevent future stains by applying a salt-resistance spray.
How to Clean Leather Shoes and Suede Shoes in Winter
Leather and suede are two of the most delicate materials to care for, so it’s important to do so gently and with the proper materials.
To clean leather, first make sure you’re consistently brushing dirt off after every wear. Then, every 5-6 wears, follow these steps:
- Remove the shoelaces.
- Brush off any dirt or debris using a horsehair brush or microfiber cloth.
- Lightly dampen a microfiber cloth and gently wipe the shoes.
- Apply a leather conditioner using the same dampened cloth.
- Add a few drops of shoe polish to the cloth and rub it into the leather using slow, circular motions. Apply a second layer if desired.
- Allow the shoes to dry completely.
- Buff off the polish with a dry cloth or brush.
For suede, you can follow a similar process, but make sure you’re using a suede-specific cleaner or eraser and a suede-specific brush. Additionally, an important note for suede is that you should only brush in the same direction as the grain, never against.
If the suede shoes in question are UGGs specifically, check out our blog on How to Clean Uggs.
For more information on cleaning and protecting suede and leather, visit our blog on How to Care for Leather Boots.
How to Clean Athletic Shoes in Winter
Winter runners are rarely deterred by the elements, but their shoes remain susceptible to dirt, stains, and moisture if not cared for properly.
There’s a lot to cover when it comes to athletic shoes, including how to waterproof them with spray or with wax and how to remove salt stains from your favorite pair. We cover all that and more in this blog from our athletic store, Goodmiles Running Company. Check it out, and be sure to browse its great collection of winter running shoes, accessories, apparel, and shoe care products!
Shop Winter Shoes and Shoe Care Products in Milwaukee
If there’s one thing Stan’s knows, it’s shoes. If there’s a second thing Stan’s knows, it's how to find the best shoes for Wisconsin winters AND take care of them so they’ll last.
If you have questions on how to care for your favorite shoe or if you want to invest in an upgraded pair, we hope you’ll stop by any of our three locations in Brookfield, Greenfield, or Glendale to chat with our welcoming team of Fit Specialists. We’ll help you discover the shoes you love—guaranteed.
You can also shop our selection of brands curated from around the world online 24/7. The styles are fresh; the construction is exceptional; the comfort is quite simply a sigh of relief. Basically, you’ll walk through this winter like it’s nothing.
We can’t wait to help you step into the new year with confidence—and with clean, dry shoes!