If you own a nice pair of leather riding boots you’re going to want to take care of them. Without proper care leather motorcycle boots can dry out, become stiff, uncomfortable and eventually fall apart. Below are step-by-step instructions on how to clean leather motorcycle boots, then oil and protect them so they last.

Photo: Howzey

What You’ll Need:

• Oiled Leather Boots*

• Stiff bristled brush

• Toothbrush (for nooks and crannies, not plaque)

• Leather cleaner

• Mink or boot oil

• Soft cloth

*Different leathers require different care. Make sure your boots are oiled leather (rather than Lorica or Vinyl-top) before using this cleaning technique.

Step #1 - **Note: We are demonstrating with our interns regular, old leather boots that are in need of a good cleaning.

Step 1: Using a stiff bristled brush, remove any excess dirt from the boot. Using a small toothbrush in the hard-to-reach places will make your task easier.

Step 2: Apply leather cleaner (Aerostich makes a good one) to a dry cloth and gently scrub, then remove any excess cleaner with a clean cloth. Let the boots dry on their own. Using a heater or blow dryer to speed up the drying process may cause the oil in the leather to dry out, and we do not advise doing this.

Step #2 - **Note: We are demonstrating with our interns regular, old leather boots that are in need of a good cleaning.

Step 3: Using your hands or a cloth, apply mink or boot oil. The boots should be liberally covered, with special attention paid to seams and stitching. As strange as it sounds, think of this step as a massage for your boots. You want to make sure you really work the oil into the boot as it will help condition and maintain the leather. Let your boots sit overnight.

Step #3 - **Note: We are demonstrating with our interns regular, old leather boots that are in need of a good cleaning.

Step 4: Now for the final step in the boot cleaning process. Step three should have left your boots looking very shiny and oily. Using a clean cloth, polish your boots until the oil has been polished away and your boots have a consistent, smooth texture with no excess oil remaining.

Step #4 - **Note: We are demonstrating with our interns regular, old leather boots that are in need of a good cleaning.

Optional: As an additional step, apply a leather protectant to your boots. This will further protect your investment by adding an extra layer of defense against rain, dirt and mud.

The Final Result - **Note: We are demonstrating with our interns regular, old leather boots that are in need of a good cleaning.

As with any other piece of motorcycle equipment, maintenance is very important. Cleaning your oiled leather boots once a month will help ensure that they will remain on your feet and in working-order for many miles to come.

Do you have any cleaning techniques or products for your leather boots that you swear by?

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