How to Clean Wool Shoes?

Wool shoes require special care to keep them looking their best. In this post, I’ll walk through how to clean wool shoes step-by-step using gentle techniques that preserve the fabric. 

Learn how to handwash delicate wool, machine wash tougher wool, deodorize with baking soda and vinegar, and care for different wool types like Merino and alpaca. 

With the right methods, you can keep your wool shoes clean, fresh, and ready to wear for many more seasons. Read on to learn the fundamentals of effective yet gentle wool shoe cleaning and care.

How to Clean Wool Shoes? The Ultimate Step by Step Guide

Step 1: Brush Off Dirt

• What You Need: A soft-bristle brush. This type is chosen to avoid damage to the delicate wool fibers.
• What to Do: Use the brush to gently remove loose dirt and debris from the surface of your wool shoes. Be thorough but gentle.

Step 2: Decide on a Washing Method

• Hand Washing for Delicate Wool: Best for softer, more fragile wool. This method is gentler and helps preserve the fabric’s integrity.
• Machine Washing for Tougher Wool: Suitable for more durable wool fabrics. A good choice for wool shoes that can withstand a bit of agitation.

Step 3: Hand Washing Delicate Wool Shoes

• What You Need: Basin, cold water, mild detergent. Choose a detergent that’s gentle to prevent harm to the wool.
• What to Do:
  • Fill a basin with cold water and add a small amount of mild detergent.
  • Submerge your wool shoes in the water.
  • Gently press and massage the soapy water into the shoes.
  • Rinse the shoes thoroughly under cold water to remove all soap.

Step 4: Machine Washing Tougher Wool Shoes

• What You Need: Linen bag, gentle detergent. The linen bag is used to protect the shoes during the wash cycle.
• What to Do:
  • Place your wool shoes in a linen bag for added protection.
  • Use the gentle cycle on your washing machine with cold water.
  • Add a small amount of gentle detergent.
  • Start the wash cycle.

Step 5: Drying Your Wool Shoes

• What to Do:
  • After washing, gently press out excess water with a towel. Be careful not to wring or twist the shoes.
  • Place the shoes in a well-ventilated area away from direct heat and sunlight.
  • Allow the shoes to air dry completely before wearing them again.

Following these steps ensures effective cleaning while preserving the quality and extending the lifespan of your wool shoes. Gentle care is crucial for maintaining wool’s unique properties.

Drying and Post-Cleaning Care

1. Getting the Water Out

After washing, lay your wool shoes on a towel. Press on them gently to squeeze out water. Remember, don’t twist or wring them – this can ruin their shape. Think of it like patting a wet sponge.

2. Air Drying Your Shoes

Let your shoes dry in a spot where there’s lots of air moving around but no direct sun or heat. Sun or heaters can shrink or warp your wool shoes. A cool, shadowy place is best for drying them evenly without harming the wool.

3. Putting Your Shoes Back Together

When your shoes are fully dry, put the insoles and laces back in. Make sure these parts are dry, too. Lacing them up again gets them ready to wear. This step helps your shoes feel like new again.

Following these easy steps helps keep your wool shoes in good shape and comfy to wear. This way, you can keep enjoying your favorite wool shoes for a long time.

Deodorizing Wool Shoes

Keeping your wool shoes smelling fresh is as important as keeping them clean. Wool can often absorb odors, but fortunately, there are simple and effective ways to deodorize them. 

Below are some easy methods to ensure your wool shoes stay odor-free.

1. Using Baking Soda for Odor Removal

• How to Apply: Generously sprinkle baking soda inside your wool shoes. Baking soda is excellent for absorbing odors without harming the wool fibers.
• Duration: Let the baking soda sit inside the shoes overnight. This gives it ample time to neutralize any unpleasant smells.
• Removal: The next day, simply tip the shoes over and gently tap them to remove the baking soda. For any residue, use a vacuum cleaner with a hose attachment to get it all out.

2. Fabric Softener Sheets for Persistent Odors

• Method: If you notice that odors linger even after trying other methods, grab a pair of fabric softener sheets. Place one sheet inside each shoe.
• Effectiveness: These sheets not only impart a fresh scent but also help to absorb lingering odors. They are particularly useful for strong and persistent smells.

3. White Vinegar Solution for Deep Odor Removal

• Preparation: Mix equal parts of water and white vinegar in a bowl. Vinegar is a natural deodorizer and will not damage wool.
• Application: Dip a clean cloth into the solution and wring it out so that it’s damp, not soaking wet. Gently wipe the inside of each shoe with the cloth.
• Drying: Allow the shoes to air dry completely. The vinegar smell will dissipate as the shoes dry, leaving them odor-free.

By incorporating these simple steps into your wool shoe care routine, you can easily keep them smelling fresh and clean. Remember, regular deodorizing can significantly extend the life and enjoyment of your wool shoes.

Extra Tips for Looking After Your Wool Shoes

1. Keeping Shoes Safe and Clean

Use a Spray for Protection: A shoe protector spray is like an umbrella for your shoes. Just spray it on, and it will keep water and stains away. It’s super easy to use. Spray it all over your shoes, let it dry, and you’re good to go. Doing this often, especially before you go out on rainy or muddy days, can really help keep your shoes looking new.

2. Tidying Up the Bottom of Your Shoes

Simple Cleaning with Soap and Brush: The bottoms of your shoes can get dirty, too. To clean them, just use a soft brush and some gentle soap. Rub the brush on the soles to get the dirt off. This way, your shoes won’t just look cleaner, but they’ll also be less slippery and safer to walk in.

3. Regularly Check Your Shoes for Fixes

Look for and Fix Small Problems: Every now and then, take a look at your shoes to see if they need any small fixes. Check for little rips, loose threads, or parts that are coming off. If you catch these problems early, you can fix them easily, like with some glue or a quick trip to the shoe repair shop. Staying on top of these small fixes can stop them from turning into big ones, and that means your shoes will last longer.

By doing these few easy things, your wool shoes will last longer and keep looking and feeling great. Taking care of your shoes doesn’t have to be hard, and a little effort can go a long way.

Understanding Wool Types in Shoes and How to Care for Them

1. Caring for Merino Wool Shoes 

Merino wool, known for being super soft, is great at pulling moisture away from your feet, keeping them dry. When cleaning Merino wool shoes, be gentle. Use a soft brush and mild soap, and avoid any harsh cleaners. 

This way, you keep the wool nice and soft, and it keeps working to keep your feet dry. Remember, no hot water or direct heat when drying, as Merino wool can shrink easily.

2. Looking After Lamb’s Wool Shoes 

Lamb’s wool is stretchy and tough, coming from the first haircut of a young sheep. It’s strong but still needs to be treated nicely. Wash these shoes with warm (not hot) water and a gentle soap. 

Don’t rub them too hard, and don’t use high heat to dry. This kind of wool keeps its shape well if you treat it right, making your shoes last longer.

3. Taking Care of Alpaca Wool Shoes 

Alpaca wool is really soft, even softer than cashmere, and it’s strong too. To take care of shoes made from alpaca wool, hand wash them with a gentle, pH-neutral soap in cold water. Don’t wring them out; just press the water out gently. 

Always air-dry these shoes away from strong heat or sunlight. Alpaca wool is also good for people who are allergic to some fabrics, but it needs extra care to keep it hypoallergenic.

By knowing what kind of wool your shoes are made of, you can clean and look after them in the best way. 

This helps your wool shoes stay in great shape, comfy, and durable. With the right care, your wool shoes can be a comfy and stylish part of your wardrobe for a long time.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, to clean wool shoes properly, first, brush off any loose dirt or debris. Then, hand wash delicate wool or machine wash more durable wool using cold water and a mild detergent. Allow the shoes to air dry fully, away from direct heat sources. 

Deodorize with baking soda or vinegar as needed. Care for different wool types like Merino and alpaca gently, based on their specific properties. 

By following these proper techniques, you can keep your wool shoes looking their very best while also preserving quality and extending their lifespan. 

For more tips on shoe care and cleaning, be sure to check out my blog or sign up for my newsletter using the link below!