How to Clean and Care for Your Combat Boots

A good pair of combat boots is an investment. Whether you're wearing them on duty, on the trail or every day, proper care will keep them performing and looking their best for years to come.

Here's our complete guide to cleaning and maintaining your Savage Island combat and patrol boots.

What You'll Need

• Soft bristle brush or old toothbrush
• Clean damp cloth
• Leather cleaner or mild soap
• Leather conditioner
• Waterproofing spray (for leather boots)
• Boot polish (optional, for a high shine finish)
• Boot trees or newspaper (for drying)

Step 1 - Remove Laces and Insoles

Always start by removing the laces and insoles. Wash laces separately in warm soapy water and leave to air dry. Removing the insoles allows both the boot and insole to dry and air out properly.

Step 2 - Remove Loose Dirt

Use a soft bristle brush to remove any loose mud or dirt from the upper, welt and sole. Pay attention to the seams and eyelets where mud tends to build up. For stubborn dried mud, let it dry completely first, it's much easier to brush off than wet mud.

Step 3 - Clean the Upper

Dampen a cloth with warm water and a small amount of leather cleaner or mild soap. Work in circular motions across the leather upper, focusing on any stained or heavily soiled areas.

Avoid soaking the leather, you want to clean the surface, not saturate it.

Step 4 - Clean the Sole

Use an old toothbrush or stiff brush to clean the lugs on the sole. Rinse under running water if needed, the sole can take more moisture than the upper.

Step 5 - Dry Properly

Never dry leather boots near direct heat - no radiators, no direct sunlight, no tumble dryers. Heat causes leather to crack and warp.

Instead, stuff the boots loosely with newspaper or use boot trees to help them hold their shape, and leave them to dry naturally at room temperature. This may take 24 hours for heavily wet boots.

Step 6 - Condition the Leather

Once fully dry, apply a leather conditioner to restore moisture and keep the leather supple. Work it in with a clean cloth using circular motions and allow it to absorb fully before wearing.

Conditioning is the single most important thing you can do to extend the life of leather boots - don't skip it.

Step 7 - Waterproof

Apply a waterproofing spray or wax to the clean, conditioned leather. This restores the boot's natural water resistance which gradually diminishes with wear and cleaning.

Step 8 - Polish (Optional)

For a smart finish, particularly relevant for patrol and security use, apply a boot polish in the appropriate colour using a brush or cloth, allow to dry, then buff to a shine.

How Often Should You Clean Your Boots?

• After every muddy or wet use - basic brush off and wipe down
• Every 2–4 weeks with regular wear - full clean and condition
• Every 2–3 months - full clean, condition and waterproof treatment

Storage Tips

• Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight
• Use boot trees to maintain shape during long storage periods
• Never store in a sealed plastic bag - leather needs to breathe

Browse our full range of combat and patrol boots built to last when looked after properly.