How to clean hiking boots

You might be quite proud of your mud-caked walking boots. After all, every deposit is a testament to a memorable hike through the toughest of conditions. But there does come a point where you might need to return them to something approaching pristine condition, and we're going to walk you through doing it safely and effectively.

Why clean hiking boots?

Keeping boots clean is important for several reasons:

• A boot with caked-on dirt can prevent moisture from escaping efficiently, which can affect its breathability and lead to a damp feel when you're walking.

• You can never be sure that it's just dirt on there. It's possible there are acids, alkalis, oils or other contaminants, especially if you've been walking through puddles around farms, roads or factories. These chemicals might affect colouration in mild cases but could potentially attack adhesives and waterproofing over the long term.

• Keeping boots clean makes it easier to inspect them before a long walk. It's always good to check for tears, major scuffs, damage to waterproofing and stitching issues before you embark on an epic hike.

• Dried mud can be very hard. If it is filling the gaps in the sole's tread, it can effectively mean there is no tread, and the rubber blocks can't move properly to get the surest grip.

• Clean boots just look like the boots you bought, and they won't ruin your car boot or kitchen floor.

How to clean hiking boots

Now we know the whys, you need to know the hows. The most important point is that it depends on the material your shoes are made from. Leather boots have different needs than synthetic footwear, and waterproofing treatment can also influence the way you clean boots. So when you're looking at how to clean mud off hiking boots, bear this in mind.

Leather boots

With full-grain leather, it's best to get the mud off as soon as possible, preferably before it has started drying. You should be able to wipe most of the dirt off with a soft cloth or soft brush (you can get a custom boot brush for the purpose). Be as gentle as you need to be; don't force or scrub it. If washing with a damp cloth or brush helps, that's also an option. Once it's all clean, you can apply boot polish with a brush and cloth as normal to bring out the natural finish and help keep the leather supple and water-resistant.

If your boot has a waterproof membrane, you should be OK spraying it with a hose or tap. Once the washing is done, leave it in a dry place, preferably a well-ventilated area, to dry naturally. Next time you go for a hike, you'll have a fresh, clean pair of boots.

Synthetic boots and shoes

Non-leather footwear is a little different, as the materials used, and therefore the cleaning instructions, vary from maker to maker. Just like waterproof jackets, some synthetic boots have special waterproofing layers on them, which means that certain cleaning products and polishes, or means of removing dirt through scrubbing, could damage your boots. We'd always recommend looking at the top tips on the manufacturer's website or any cleaning instructions that came with the shoe packaging. 

It's probably safe to say, however, that water will not damage any decent pair of hiking boots, so if you stick to clean water and a soft cloth, you shouldn't go far wrong. With some boots, you need to re-waterproof them from time to time, which can usually be done with a waterproofing spray. It's important that this is only ever done when the shoe is clean and dry, so don't be tempted to do it straight after a muddy walk – the spray won't take properly.

Cleaning soles

All walking boots and hiking shoes have a sole with plenty of grip, and that can quickly become filled with thick mud if it's the right consistency. The process for cleaning it out depends on how dried-on it is and how much time you've got. If it's still wet, you should be able to clean it out with a firm brush, like a toothbrush or scrubbing brush, or just your finger and kitchen roll. Give it a rinse afterwards, and you're hot to trot.

If the dirt is dry and hard, however, you've got two options: force it out or soak it. If you're in a hurry, you might get away with simply banging the soles together, which sometimes loosens the mud. Failing this, you will need to lever it off with a screwdriver, a key or a dining knife. Don't use anything sharp, as that can damage the rubber, and if you slip, you can go right through the sole.

Work out where the contours of the grip are and force the mud out with your chosen tool, making sure you don't force it too much, as you might end up removing the grip. If you've got more time, however, stand your boots in shallow, lukewarm water (you can add a little dish soap if you like) for a few hours. If your boots are anything less than fully waterproof (i.e. if they are only water-resistant), make sure the water level leaves a little sole visible all the way around. When the soak is over, you should be able to get it out with your finger and/or a brush, as above.

How to clean inside of hiking boots

It's rare that the insides will need to be cleaned, although it won't harm them to hang them up for a good airing after every hike. You can get deodorising sprays and change the insole if necessary, but getting the insides wet isn't usually a good idea as it's hard for air to circulate, and with the soft fabrics used in there, thorough drying can take days.

Looking for a pair for your next hike?

If you're looking for a pair of waterproof, high-performance hiking boots, you're in the right place. The North Face women's hiking boots come in a complete range of styles, from a light trainer-style shoe right up to fully waterproof boots with ankle support for more demanding trails. The North Face hiking boots for men come in an equally diverse range to suit your activity, whether that's something light and grippy for fell running or a boot that's chunky and warm with Gore-Tex breathability for when you're far away from civilisation. Wherever your next hike takes you, look and feel your absolute best with North Face hiking boots.