# How to look after your new rugby boots

**By Adam Clark** · 2022-03-16

With new **[rugby boots](https://www.rugbystuff.com/collections/all-rugby-boots "Rugby Boots  - Rugbystuff.com")** comes great responsibility - well, you’re going to have to clean them, aren't you?

If it's your first match with a new pair of boots, or you've got a kid who has just taken up the sport, we've got all the advice you could need below.  
  
Don’t just chuck them in the washing machine - make them last longer with proper care and cleaning. Here’s how:  

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## **STEP ONE:**  
  

![](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/1227/8086/files/9ef068c2-5944-4e9d-a3f0-f51818567419_480x480.jpg?v=1647435441)

  
Start by gently scraping off dried mud and debris outside or knock them together to remove large clumps.  

## **STEP TWO:**

![](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/1227/8086/files/799b044c-4e0e-48dd-934c-fa40be4de984_480x480.jpg?v=1647435447)  
  
Wipe boots with a damp cloth. Use cool water as hot water can stiffen leather boots and make them crack.  

## **STEP THREE:**

![](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/1227/8086/files/ec99d2b6-a0f0-4402-aee8-0a31abbfefc7_480x480.jpg?v=1647435453)  
  
Use a solution of several tablespoons of baking soda mixed in water. This will do a good job removing the dirt, will help reduce any odour, and won’t damage the boot.  
  
If there are any stubborn dirt spots, use a soft brush to scrub out the dirt. An old toothbrush is useful here.  

## **STEP FOUR:**

![](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/1227/8086/files/f46eeb92-b267-4b1c-b32f-126595c3b80c_480x480.jpg?v=1647435458)  
  
Speeding up the drying process with a radiator or hairdryer is tempting, but should be avoided. Sudden, intense heat can damage the material, stitching, and even the laces.  
  
Instead, use the old-fashioned method of stuffing the boots with newspaper to absorb moisture. Leave them in a well-ventilated room. They should dry in a day or two so do this in advance of matchday or training. It may take longer than the hair dryer, but your boots will thank you in the long run.

**Please don't put them in the tumble dryer!**   

## **STEP FIVE:**

![](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/1227/8086/files/3f663b80-f344-4349-809f-084514e325b1_480x480.jpg?v=1647435463)  
  
Use a designated cloth to treat leather boots with a leather conditioning cream. This provides an extra layer of protection against scuffs and water damage.  
  
So there you have it - no excuses, just clean boots every matchday. Treat your boots well and they’ll last a lot longer.

If you've got a youngster playing rugby, make sure you teach them how to tighten up their **[studs](https://www.rugbystuff.com/collections/rugby-studs-laces "Replacement Rugby Boot Studs")** and clean their own boots, or you'll be stuck at the sink every weekend!  
  
Also, if you are looking to upgrade more of your gear, have a look at our **latest collection of rugby boots** below! Good luck out there.

[![](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/1227/8086/files/Boots_1024x1024.png?v=1653565115)](https://www.rugbystuff.com/collections/all-rugby-boots "Rugby Boots - Rubgystuff.com")

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> Source: [Rugbystuff.com](www.rugbystuff.com/blogs/rugby-stuff-news/how-to-look-after-your-rugby-boots)