How do I care for retro football boots?

Retro football boots require careful maintenance to preserve their vintage look, feel, and collector value. At The Boot Dealer AU, we recommend regular cleaning, natural drying, leather conditioning, proper storage, and keeping laces and soles in top condition. Done right, these steps will extend the life of your boots and maintain their playability and value.

Nike Mercurial Vapor 9 Elite - How do I care for retro football boots? | The Boot Dealer AU

1. Why Retro Boots Need Special Care

Older materials are more sensitive to moisture, temperature changes, and overuse. Preserving them ensures both playability (if worn) and collector value.

2. Cleaning After Every Use

• Immediate Post-Match or Training Cleaning The most important step is to clean your boots as soon as possible after each use. Don't let mud or dirt dry on them, as this can make it much harder to remove and can even draw moisture and oils out of leather, leading to cracking.

• Remove excess dirt: Knock the boots together, sole to sole, to dislodge large clumps of mud and grass. You can also use a dull object like a lollipop stick, screwdriver, or putty knife, or a soft-bristled brush to remove stubborn dirt. For knit materials, use a soft brush and light pressure.

• Wipe with a damp cloth: Use a damp cloth or sponge with warm water to wipe away smaller dirt particles from the entire boot, including the upper and soleplate. Avoid using hot water on leather boots, as it can stiffen the leather and cause it to crack.

• Detail cleaning: An old toothbrush is excellent for getting into tight spots like stitching, grooves, and around the studs on the soleplate.

• Avoid harsh chemicals: Do not use harsh chemicals, alcohol-based cleaners, or strong cleaning agents, especially on natural leather or knit materials, as they can damage the material and finishes. A mild washing detergent or gentle soap (like baby shampoo) can be used with water for scrubbing if needed.

• Only use lukewarm water and mild soap - avoid harsh chemicals or soaking any pair of boots.

3. Drying the Right Way

• Air dry naturally, away from direct heat or sunlight (which can crack leather).

• Stuff boots with newspaper to absorb moisture and help retain their shape.

• Avoid hairdryers or heaters — fast heat weakens leather fibres.

4. Leather Conditioning

• Apply a football boot-specific leather conditioner or cream monthly.

• Good options include Dubbin, natural leather oils, or beeswax products like Graingers G-Wax for extra water and dirt protection.

• Avoid petroleum-based products, which can dry and weaken leather.

5. Storage Tips

• Store in a cool, dry environment away from sunlight and dampness.

• Avoid sealed plastic bags and boot bags for long periods - they trap moisture and encourage mould.

• Use breathable boot bags and, if possible, boot shapers to maintain form.

• Use boot shapers to maintain form.

6. Laces, Studs, and Soles

• Regularly check and replace worn laces.

• Inspect studs and soles for wear.

• For screw-in studs, lubricate the threads lightly to prevent rust and ensure easy removal.

• Keep studs tightened appropriately to avoid match-day issues.

5. Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Don’t store boots in plastic bags or boot bags for long periods - they trap moisture.

• Don’t use harsh detergents or bleach.

• Storing boots wet or in damp bags after matches.

• Over-conditioning, which can soften leather too much.

• Using aggressive cleaning products meant for synthetic materials.