We all know how important it is to care for our leather motorcycle boots. After all, they’ve been through a lot, from riding in bad weather to taking a beating on long trips. But once we’ve conditioned them and made them look new again, how do we store them, so they stay in good shape?
One of the things that I get asked most frequently is about drying and storing conditioned leather motorcycle boots. There are a few different ways that you can do this, and I will go over each of them so that you can choose the best option for you.
5 Tips for Drying and Storing Conditioned Leather Motorcycle Boots
Once you’ve conditioned your boots, it’s essential to ensure they’re completely dry before putting them away. If they’re even slightly damp, they could develop mold or mildew. Also, incorrect storing can cause drying out and cracking.
Remember to apply a leather conditioner periodically if you want to store them for a long time.
SEE MORE: Leather Motorcycle Boots: How to Condition Them and Why It’s a Good Idea
Here are some tips on how to store your boots:
1. Dry the boots
Drying your leather motorcycle boots after conditioning them can be tricky. If you’re not careful, you can end up with a pair of boots that are stiff, uncomfortable, and just plain ugly.
The first thing you need to do is to remove any excess moisture from your boots. You can do this by blotting them with a clean towel. Be sure to blot or wipe gently with a soft cloth rather than rub, as rubbing can scuff the leather.
After that, let your boots air dry. The best way to do this is to put them in a well-ventilated area.
If the shoes are too wet, use a fan. Ensure the fan is pointed away from the boots, so it doesn’t blow dust or dirt onto them.
2. Keep them out of the sun
Natural leather boots are sensitive to sunlight, so it’s best to store them in a dark, cool place. Direct sunlight can dry up leather oils and cause the surface to fade.
If you must keep your boots in the sunlight, rotate them, so they don’t fade unevenly.
3. Don’t store them in plastic bags
Leather needs to breathe, so storing it in a plastic bag is terrible. Instead, wrap them in a soft, breathable fabric like cotton.
4. Stuff them with newspaper
Stuffing your boots with newspaper is a great way to keep them in good shape. It helps them hold their shape and prevents creases from forming.
5. Don’t forget to polish them
When you’re ready to wear your boots again, don’t forget to polish them. Doing this will keep your shoes looking their best and protect them from the elements.
Follow these tips, and your leather motorcycle boots will stay in excellent condition for years to come. Make sure your boots are dry to the touch before you store them away. If you take care of them, they’ll take care of you!
FAQs about Conditioned Leather Motorcycle Boots
How should I properly dry conditioned leather boots?
Gently blot excess moisture from the leather using a towel, then allow the boots to air dry away from direct sunlight or heat. Do not put damp leather boots in a dryer.
What happens if I put wet leather boots in a dryer?
Putting wet leather in a dryer can damage the leather by causing it to crack, shrink, and dry unevenly. The high heat from a dryer is not suitable for drying conditioned leather and can remove valuable oils and conditioner.
How long does it take leather boots to air dry?
It can take 24 to 72 hours for thick leather motorcycle boots to fully air dry depending on the humidity and ventilation. Leather dries from the outside in, so check the inner lining last to ensure all the leather is completely dry.
Should I stuff dryer sheets in my leather boots?
It is not recommend using dryer sheets in leather boots as the fragrances and chemicals can damage the leather over time by breaking down oils and conditioners. Air drying is the best method for drying and maintaining conditioned leather boots.
How should I store dried leather boots?
Store dried leather boots stuffed with acid-free tissue paper to maintain their shape. Place mothballs or cedar blocks inside to prevent mildew and insects. Store boots in breathable bags to allow the leather to continue breathing and releasing moisture. Avoid plastic storage which can trap moisture.
Should I apply conditioner before or after drying my boots?
It is best to apply conditioner to thoroughly dry boots to allow the conditioner to fully absorb into the leather. Conditioning damp leather can prevent proper absorption.
How long does it take for conditioner to dry?
Conditioner typically takes 4 to 8 hours to fully absorb into thick, dense leather. Allowing the boots to sit overnight after conditioning will ensure the conditioner is fully absorbed before wearing or storing the boots.
How can I prevent mold or mildew in my boots?
Store dried boots with pre-treated mothballs or cedar blocks to prevent mildew. Clean and thoroughly dry your boots after every wear to prevent moisture buildup. Allow boots to fully air dry before storing to remove any trapped moisture.
