Cleaning Timberland boots isn\u2019t hard, but it does require the right method. If you use the wrong soap or scrub too hard, you can ruin the leather or suede. The good news is that with a few basic supplies and about 20 minutes, you can make your boots look almost new again. Here is the exact process I use for classic nubuck Timberlands, plus advice for leather and waterproof styles.<\/p>\n
Before you touch water or soap, check the label on the tongue of your boot. Most classic Timberlands use a material called nubuck. Nubuck is like suede but with a finer, softer nap. It is not the same as smooth leather. If you treat nubuck like smooth leather, you will stain it for good.<\/p>\n
Look for the style number and material description. If it says “nubuck,” follow the dry-cleaning method below. If it says “full-grain leather” or “smooth leather,” you can use a bit more water and saddle soap. If it says “waterproof,” you can still use these methods, but you need to reapply the waterproofing spray afterward to keep the seal strong.<\/p>\n
This is the step most people skip, and it causes the most damage. When you add water or cleaner to dirty boots, the water pushes the dirt deeper into the fibers. You end up with a grey, muddy smear instead of a clean boot.<\/p>\n
Get a dedicated suede and nubuck brush. It has stiff brass bristles on one side and a rubber eraser on the other. Use the brass side to brush the entire boot in one direction. This lifts loose dirt, dried mud, and dust. Brush the whole boot, including the rubber sole and the stitching. For stubborn mud spots, let the mud dry completely, then brush it off. Do not scrape wet mud off with a knife or your fingernail. That will scratch the nubuck.<\/p>\n
If you don\u2019t have a suede brush, a dry, clean toothbrush works in a pinch. But a proper brush is worth the ten dollars. It will last for years and work on all your suede shoes.<\/p>\n
After brushing, you will likely see a few dark spots or scuff marks. This is where the rubber eraser side of your brush comes in. Rub the eraser back and forth over the scuff mark with firm pressure. This lifts the stain out of the nap without wetting the material. It works on light scuffs, water marks, and small grease spots.<\/p>\n
For oily stains, sprinkle a small amount of cornstarch or baby powder on the spot. Let it sit for at least two hours, preferably overnight. The powder pulls the oil out of the leather. Brush the powder away with the brass side of your brush. If the stain is still there, repeat the process one more time. This dry method is the safest way to clean nubuck. It preserves the color and texture better than any liquid cleaner.<\/p>\n
Sometimes brushing is not enough. If your boots are caked in mud or have deep grime, you need a deeper clean. Fill a bowl with lukewarm water and add a tiny drop of mild dish soap or a dedicated suede cleaner. Do not soak the boots. Do not submerge them in water. That will break down the glue holding the sole to the upper.<\/p>\n
Dip a soft cloth or a clean sponge into the soapy water. Wring it out so it is just damp, not dripping. Wipe the boots in small circular motions, working one small section at a time. Rinse the cloth in clean water, wring it out, and wipe the soap off the boot. You want to remove all soap residue, or it will attract more dirt later. Let the boots air dry completely away from direct heat. Never put Timberlands on a radiator or in the dryer. Heat will warp the leather and shrink the rubber.<\/p>\n
Once your boots are completely dry, the nubuck will feel stiff and look flat. This is normal. You need to bring the nap back to life. Take your suede brush and brush the entire boot again with the brass side. Use light, even strokes in one direction. This raises the tiny fibers and restores that soft, velvety texture.<\/p>\n
If the boots look faded or lighter than before, that is also normal. Nubuck naturally lightens when it dries. You can use a nubuck color restorer spray to bring back the original shade. Test it on a small hidden area first. Spray from about six inches away and brush the boots again while the spray is still damp. This helps the color absorb evenly.<\/p>\n
If your Timberlands are smooth leather, the process is different but still simple. Brush off loose dirt first. Then use a damp cloth to wipe the surface. For deeper cleaning, use saddle soap. Saddle soap is a classic leather cleaner that removes dirt and conditions the leather at the same time.<\/p>\n
Take a soft cloth, dampen it, and rub it over the saddle soap bar to pick up a little soap. Work it into the leather in circular motions. Let it sit for a few minutes, then wipe it off with a clean, damp cloth. Let the boots dry naturally. After they are dry, apply a thin layer of mink oil or leather conditioner. This keeps the leather soft and adds a layer of water resistance. Do not use mink oil on nubuck. It will darken the material permanently.<\/p>\n
Cleaning is only half the job. You need to protect the boots so they stay clean longer. Once your boots are dry and brushed, apply a waterproofing spray made for nubuck or suede. Hold the can about eight inches away and apply an even, light coat. Do not soak the boots. Let them dry for a few hours, then apply a second coat. This creates a barrier that repels water and stains.<\/p>\n
Reapply the waterproofing spray every few months, or after you clean the boots. If you wear your Timberlands in heavy rain or snow, you will need to reapply more often. Store your boots in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Sunlight fades the color over time. Stuff the boots with newspaper or shoe trees when you are not wearing them. This helps them keep their shape and absorbs any lingering moisture.<\/p>\n
No. Do not put Timberlands in the washing machine. The tumbling action is too rough for the leather and nubuck. It can also loosen the glue that attaches the sole to the boot. The machine will warp the shape and ruin the waterproofing. Always clean them by hand with a brush and a damp cloth.<\/p>\n
Salt stains are common in snowy areas. Mix one part white vinegar with one part water. Dip a soft cloth in the mixture and dab the salt stains. Do not rub hard. Let the boots air dry, then brush them with a suede brush. The vinegar neutralizes the salt without damaging the leather. Follow up with waterproofing spray to prevent future salt damage.<\/p>\n
Only use shoe polish on smooth leather Timberlands. Do not use it on nubuck or suede. Polish will clog the pores of nubuck and leave a greasy, dark residue that is nearly impossible to remove. For nubuck, use a dedicated nubuck color spray instead of polish.<\/p>\n
Brush your boots after every few wears to remove surface dirt. Do a full deep clean every two to three months, or whenever they look visibly dirty. If you wear them daily in harsh conditions, clean them more often. Regular brushing is the best way to extend the life of the boots.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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