Routine cleaning is key for long-lasting alligator boots. Learn how to clean, polish, and properly store your alligator leather boots with this complete guide.

Did you just treat yourself to a new pair of alligator boots?

Or maybe you've had a pair for awhile and want to know how to keep them in pristine condition!

Alligator is one of the most coveted and fashionable boots to own. The distinct texture and color of alligator skin can add a sense of dimension and "exoticness" to any outfit.

Either way, knowing the best way to take care of your boots is crucial in maintaining their longevity.

Look no further! We've put together a few tips and tricks to help maintain your boots in tip-top condition.

Smart Storage

An important aspect of prolonging your boot's life is to be strategic about how and where you store them.

Alligator is considerably drier than bovine leather and because of this, your boots should be stored in a cool and dry area. When thinking about how to best store your alligator boots, make it a top priority to avoid direct sunlight. If left in this harsh condition, your boots will dry out, fade in color, become deformed and lose their exotic sheen.

When you aren't wearing your boots it is imperative that you don't allow dust and residue to build up on the boots. You can prevent this build up by storing your boots in their box or a drawstring bag.

Invest in some high-quality boot trees to maintain the original form of the boot. If you're not familiar, boot trees are inserts that you place inside of the boot to prevent the boot from folding or creating an undesirable crease in the boot.

Regular Maintenance

It is best practice to clean your boots after every wear and to deep condition them at least once a month. Although this is best practice, this isn't always practical.

The amount of times you'll clean your boots depends completely on you. How often do you wear them? Do you wear them mostly indoors or outdoors? What type of weather have they been used in? All of these factors will need to be taken into account when establishing your cleaning routine.

Just like any other thing you've invested in, you'll want to establish a routine of cleaning and deep conditioning your alligator boots.

Day-to-Day Cleaning

After each wear take a cloth to remove any unwanted residue or debris. Some boot enthusiasts suggest that if you're crunched for time or have limited resources you can use your sock to achieve the same effect.

After you take your boots off and notice that there's more buildup than dust on your boots, take a slightly damp cloth and remove the dirt from the crevices of the boot.

Deep Conditioning

Depending on how often you wear the boots, you'll want to make it a habit to deep condition your alligator boots regularly. If you wear your boots often a deep cleaning once a month will suffice. If you only wear your boots for special occasions you could opt to deep condition your boots every other month.

Finding the Perfect Conditioner

Since alligator is can typically become dryer than bovine leather you'll want to be intentional about what you condition them with. Your best bet for finding the perfect alligator cleaning would be to order them from us.  We're experts when it comes to boot care.  Our Boot Care products can be found here: Boot Care Products

Just give us a call if you have any questions we're more than happy to recommend what will best serve your needs.  All our staff use Bick $ conditioner and cleaner on our boots. 

Getting Down and Dirty

Once you've picked up your conditioner, your deep conditioning can commence!

To properly condition them it is imperative that the boots be clean. You can clean them by taking a slightly damp cloth to remove any noticeable debris and dust.

Because of the raised texture of alligator material, it can be easy for dirt to hide in the cracks and crevices. Using your damp cloth, make sure you pay special attention to the nooks and crannies.  An old toothbrush or other soft bristled brush can be useful.

After your boots are clean make sure to allow the boots to fully dry (remember not to leave them in the sunlight).

Now that your boots are clean you can begin to condition them. Apply the conditioner you've chosen in thin layers. Alligator leather has a tougher exterior (no pores) and in order for the conditioner to penetrate thick exterior, the conditioner will need to be applied in several, thin layers.

In between each layer allow for 10-15 minutes so the conditioner can be completely absorbed into the material. 

Last Minute Cleaning

In the unfortunate event that you spill something on your alligator boots, it's handy to know how to quickly remedy the situation.

If the substance on your boot isn't alcoholic or acidic, wipe it off immediately and condition as usual. A soft-bristled shoe brush should excavate the stain.

If the substance on your boot is alcoholic or acidic you'll need to wipe it off immediately and to the best of your ability. Substances with alcoholic and acidic properties can rapidly dry out alligator leather and cause deterioration.

For this exact reason, you should never attempt to clean your alligator boots with household cleaners. While this may serve as a quick-fix option while cleaning other materials, the harsh chemicals in these cleaners can ruin and strip your boots of their finish and color.

Check Out Your New Alligator Boots

Alligator is among the most beautiful and distinctive textiles to flaunt. Leather boots with distinctive texture are making a comeback within the fashion world.

Whether you're on a ranch or on a runway, it's important to know about the special care that comes along with them!

If you follow these tips and tricks the lifespan of your boots will extend long past their expectancy. If these tips are followed your friends will be asking when you got new boots, even if they're several years old.

If you're reading this and still have questions about how to best care for your alligator boots let us know. We'd love to help you prolong your boot's life and show you even more tips and tricks.