Caring For Your Winter Boots: Salt Stain Removal and Storage Tips
Salt stains from icy winters can damage your leather boots, but there are simple things you can do to protect, clean and store your footwear and keep them for years.
Our stylists keep a bottle of Fiebing’s Salt Stain Remover right in the cabinet next to our boots along with a small square of clean cloth. When white salt stains appear, simply wet the cloth and dampen the area. Let the boots air dry and stains should be gone; if any remain, repeat the process. This product doesn’t simply dilute the salt, it actually cleans and removes the salt and prevents damage to the leather.
Need a quick fix? Mix a 50-50 solution of water and white vinegar to use in the same manner.
Storing boots can seem like a chore but having the right components can make all the difference. First, I keep the original box whenever I can. It is the perfect size and it makes it easy to identify the boots inside (and they are free!) Most boots don’t come with an easy insert, it’s usually cardboard or tissue that is difficult to reuse. Investing in nice inserts that are easy to reuse will keep your boots in great shape and avoid harsh folds and seams forming. I also love shoe bags and the tall boot bag below especially for travel. Here are a few of our other favorites:
Container Store Storage
Stackable boot storage
Container Store Boot Insert
Boot storage bag
Shoe Drawers Container Store
Don’t have the time or energy to hunt around for the perfect winter boots, or you want to simplify the art of shopping online with expert advice to avoid costly returns?
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