Winter can be a good time to clean hiking boots. Maintaining hiking boots is important to safe Montana hiking because the “Big Sky” state holds a wide variety of terrains, and the seasons can bring challenging weather—from heavy rain in the spring to snow and extreme cold in the winter. Hiking boots that are well maintained can provide optimal support, traction, and safety, and they can enhance the overall Montana hiking experience.

This article builds from a previous Lakeside Motel & Resort article, Montana Hiking: Basic Steps on How to Clean, Maintain, and Store Your Backpack before Your Next Adventure. Together, these guides focus on practical gear care so hikers can enjoy Montana hiking across changing seasons and landscapes.

Why Hiking Boots Should Be Cleaned for Montana Hiking

Consistent boot care is a foundational part of Montana hiking preparation. Cleaning hiking boots after trips—and before storing them—serves several important purposes:

• Prevent material damage. Particles of dirt, grit, sand, or debris can work deeper into a boot’s materials as the boots are worn. Over time, these particles can abrade fabric or leather, reducing durability.
• Protect leather. As mud dries on leather boots, it can pull moisture away from the leather. This can cause the leather to prematurely age and, in some cases, crack—especially problematic for Montana hiking, where weather and terrain vary widely and sturdy reliable boots are essential.
• Maintain traction. Dried, caked-on mud can reduce the traction of a boot’s outsole, which may affect footing on rocky trails, wet surfaces, or steep terrain common in Montana hiking areas.
• Reduce odor and microbial growth. During hiking, feet can perspire and give off heat. This can create a warm, damp environment inside boots that allows bacteria and fungus to grow and produce odors.
• Limit the spread of invasive plants. Dried dirt and mud can harbor seeds from invasive plants. Without cleaning, these seeds could be spread while hiking in different locations—in-state, out-of-state, or internationally.
• Protect your investment. As a bottom line, hiking boots can be expensive. Consistent maintenance helps prolong the life of the boots and preserves their optimal performance for future Montana hiking trips.

Please Note: The following information for cleaning hiking boots is general information intended to provide an effective gentle cleaning that does not compromise the integrity of the boots’ structure, fabrics, materials, and components. The cleaning steps are for boots that can be safely cleaned with soapy water and rinsed under clean running water. Before beginning a cleaning, please read the manufacturer’s care instructions carefully, and if they differ from steps given here, please follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Implements that Can Be Used to Clean Hiking Boots

Cleaning boots for Montana hiking does not require specialized equipment. Common household items and basic outdoor gear care products are often sufficient:

• A boot brush, an old clean vegetable or kitchen brush, or an old clean toothbrush
• A clean washing cloth
• A boot cleaner formulated for the type of boots being cleaned, saddle soap, or a mild solution of dishwashing liquid and clean water

Steps for Cleaning Hiking Boots

Following a consistent cleaning process helps keep boots ready for future Montana hiking adventures.

1. Remove laces and insoles. Taking these out allows better access to exterior and interior surfaces and ensures more thorough cleaning.
2. Brush off dried dirt and mud from the uppers. Use a brush to remove loose, dried debris from the outside of the boots.
3. Clean the outsoles. Use a brush—vigorously if needed—to remove dirt, mud, pebbles, and other debris from the outsoles. For especially stubborn dirt, the outsoles can be dampened or briefly soaked and then carefully sprayed with a garden hose.
4. Wash exterior and interior surfaces. Using a brush, toothbrush, or cloth with an appropriate cleanser, clean both the outside and inside surfaces of the boots.
5. Clean the insoles separately. Insoles could be washed on their own using the same brush or cloth and cleanser.
6. Rinse thoroughly. Rinse boots and insoles with clean water to remove all cleanser residue, which can otherwise affect materials over time.

This step-by-step approach supports long-term performance and comfort during Montana hiking, over a variety of trail conditions.

Applying Treatments While Boots Are Damp

Once boots are clean and still damp, certain treatments may be applied—if allowed by the manufacturer’s care instructions.

• Full-grain “smooth” leather boots. If leather appears dry or cracked, a conditioner may be applied while the boots are still damp. Conditioning can help keep leather moisturized and pliable. However, excess conditioner may compromise the structural support the boots provide.
• “Rough” leather boots (suede or nubuck). Some rough leather boots can be re-waterproofed using treatments formulated specifically for these materials.

Important Note: Only apply conditioning or waterproofing products if they are allowed in the manufacturer’s care guidelines. Read and follow the products’ application instructions carefully. Proper treatment can help ensure boots remain reliable for Montana hiking in wet or variable conditions.

Steps for Drying Hiking Boots

Correct drying is critical after cleaning, especially for boots used in Montana hiking, where moisture from snow, rain, and stream crossings is common.

• Choose the right environment. Place boots and insoles in a location with “normal” or “room” temperature and low humidity. Avoid areas that are extremely hot, cold, or damp. If drying outdoors, keep boots out of direct sunlight.
• Speed drying safely. Indoors, a fan can be used to blow air on the boots. Boots may also be stuffed with newspaper to absorb moisture. With newspaper less common nowadays, clean paper towels could serve as an alternative. Replace the newspaper sheets or paper towels as they become soaked.
• Maintain boot shape. Stuffing with newspaper or paper towels can help boots retain their shape while drying. Near the end of the drying process, remove the stuffing so the interior can dry completely.

Steps for Storing Hiking Boots

Proper storage supports long-term durability and readiness for future Montana hiking trips.

• Once boots are completely dry, reinsert the insoles and lace up the boots.
• Store boots in a clean, dry, well-ventilated location that is away from direct sunlight.
• Avoid areas with extreme hot or cold temperatures or high humidity.

Things to Avoid When Caring for Hiking Boots

Certain practices can shorten the lifespan of hiking boots and reduce their effectiveness for Montana hiking:

• Avoid washing machines and dryers unless explicitly allowed by the manufacturer. Hot water, spin cycles, and detergents in washing machines, along with dryer heat and tumbling, can break down adhesives and compromise stitching.
• Do not use bar soaps or harsh detergents when handwashing boots. These products can damage leather and waterproof membranes.
• Avoid direct heat sources when drying. Fireplaces, campfires, wood stoves, radiators, and heaters may damage adhesives, stitching, and leather components.
• Do not store boots in extreme environments. Garages, attics, basements, or other locations with temperature swings, high humidity, or direct sunlight can degrade boot materials over time.

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Lakeside Motel & Resort: A Base Camp for Northwest Montana Hiking

For travelers planning Montana hiking adventures near Trout Creek, Lakeside Motel & Resort can serve as an ideal base camp. After long days on the trail, having a comfortable and convenient place to return to makes preparation and recovery easier.

Lakeside offers a variety of lodging options, including motel rooms, cabins with fully equipped kitchens, and two RV sites. An on-site restaurant provides breakfast, lunch, and dinner, making it easy to fuel up before or after a day of Montana hiking.

Lakeside is also well positioned for exploring regional outdoor destinations as summer approaches, including Thompson Falls State Park and Kootenai Falls and Swinging Bridge. With well-maintained gear and a comfortable home base, visitors can focus on enjoying the trails, the scenery, and the sense of adventure that define Montana hiking.

Sources:
Asplund, Troy (Columbia). “How to Clean Hiking Boots: A footwear designer explains how to take proper care of your trail shoes.” columbia.com. 4 February 2026 (Accessed). https://www.columbia.com/how-to-clean-hiking-boots.html.

Cavanaugh, Rachel (Columbia). “Stinky Shoes 101: How to Get Rid of Hiking Boot Odor.” columbia.com. 4 February 2026 (Accessed). https://www.columbia.com/eliminating-hiking-boot-odor.html.

Henkes, Beth, Keri Hyytinen, Rick Meade (REI Co-op Expert Advice). “How to Clean Hiking Boots.” rei.com. 3 February 2026 (Accessed). https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/caring-hiking-boots.html.

Knapp, Ken (REI Co-op Expert Advice). “How to Do End-of-Summer Gear Care.” rei.com. 3 February 2026 (Accessed). https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/end-of-summer-gear-care.html.

The North Face. “How to Clean and Care for Your Hiking Boots.” thenorthface.com. 18 March 2025 (Published). https://www.thenorthface.com/en-us/approach/how-to-clean-and-care-for-your-hiking-boots.

REI Co-op Expert Advice. “How to Care for Leather Hiking Boots.” rei.com. 3 February 2026 (Accessed). https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/how-to-care-for-leather-hiking-boots.html.