Do you have a great-looking pair of boots that you want to keep looking shiny and new forever? You could simply never wear them; however, let’s be practical. You bought the boots because you love them and can’t wait to wear them. So how do you keep them looking brand new?

Your local shoe repair store has ways to keep them looking new for a fee, starting with a powerful machine that buffs them vigorously. But you have other options besides taking your boots to the cobbler after every wear or buying an expensive electric polishing machine.

Here are four ways to keep those boots looking great whenever you wear them.

Practice Regular Cleaning

Image via Flickr by cogdogblog

The best course of action is to care for your boots properly from the get-go. This will make it easier to keep them looking new going forward. After each wear, use a damp rag to wipe off any debris or stains right away. Then use a soft cloth to buff the boots’ surface. If your boots are suede, not leather, reach for a dry terrycloth, toothbrush, or eraser instead.

Use Natural Products

You can use a number of natural household items to clean your boots safely. These include:

• Petroleum jelly: This inexpensive product works like a charm to polish and protect your boots. First, clean the boots with a damp cloth. When they’re dry, apply a thin coat of petroleum jelly all over and buff vigorously using a soft cloth.
• Warm water and dish soap: Soak a soft cloth with this mixture, then wring it out and wipe the boots’ exterior. Use a second cloth to wipe off the soap. Buff with a clean, soft towel.
• Baking soda: To get rid of scuffs, dip a damp cloth in baking soda, rub the problem area, and then wipe the boot clean and dry.
• Water and white vinegar: Soak a cloth in equal parts water and vinegar, and dab the boots. Wipe them with a damp cloth. Allow the boots to dry, then buff with a towel.

Clean Every Crevice

When cleaning cowboy boots, you need to reach every nook and cranny if you want to keep them looking brand new. First, wipe them down with a damp cloth. With a horsehair brush, clean out all the cracks and crevices on the boots. If you don’t have a horsehair brush, a toothbrush or a nail brush will do just fine. Then apply saddle soap or a similar product or even a coat of coconut oil. With a soft cloth, buff the boots to a shine.

Apply Polish

You can make your own shoe polish with products you probably have in your pantry. Use two parts olive oil and one part lemon juice to form your polish. Rub it into your boots with a clean cloth, allowing the mixture to soak for a couple of minutes. Then buff your boots for a like-new shine.

You don’t need an electric handheld shoe polisher to keep your cowboy boots looking new. Use these tips to help care for your boots and keep them in top shape for years to come.