How to Clean Merrell Hiking Boots? (The ONLY Best Way)

If you are a hiker not a beginner one but an expert then you know the importance of taking care of your hiking gear.

Well, if you are a pro then there is no need to tell you how to clean Merrell hiking boots. Because you already know the value.

But if you are a beginner and are just starting the hiking hobby and you got your Merrell hiking boots dirty after a hike.

Then this is the guide that you need. Let’s begin cleaning our hiking boots.

Final Key Takeaways

Is it easy to clean Merrell’s hiking boots? OR is it possible to clean them?

First, let me clear your mind. No matter, if it is hard to Merrell hiking boots or easy. You have to clean them. Because cleaning and maintenance are the things that can make your Merrell boots last longer.

Now, let’s come to the answer.

Yes, it is easy to clean Merrell hiking boots and you can do this at your home for cleaning them you don’t need any specific type of skill.

If you do clean your other simple everyday wear shoes then it will be a lot easier for you to clean Merrel hiking boots.

So, let’s start the process. I am going to tell you a simple and easy method to clean them.

How to clean Merrell hiking boots?

Merrell hiking boots are known for their durability and comfort, making them a popular choice among outdoor enthusiasts.

However, after a few hikes, your boots are bound to get dirty and require some cleaning. And I would say no matter whether you hike or not and just wear them every day then still they will get dirty.

So, let me walk you through the steps to effectively clean your Merrell hiking boots and keep them in top condition.

Gather your cleaning supplies

Before you start cleaning your Merrell hiking boots, it’s important to gather the necessary supplies. Also, I personally use these things to clean my hiking boots.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• Mild soap or specialized boot cleaner
• Soft brush or sponge
• Warm water
• Old towel or cloth
• Waterproofing spray (optional)

Remove excess dirt and debris

Start by removing any excess dirt and debris from your boots. Use a soft brush or sponge to gently brush off any loose dirt.

Be careful not to scrub too hard, as this can damage the material of your boots.

Clean the upper and laces

Next, prepare a mixture of warm water and mild soap or specialized boot cleaner. Dip the brush or sponge into the soapy water and gently scrub the upper part of your boots.

Pay attention to any stained or dirty areas, and work the cleaner into the fabric or leather.

For the laces, you can remove them from the boots and clean them separately. Soak the laces in the soapy water and use your fingers to rub away any dirt or stains.

Rinse the laces thoroughly and set them aside to dry.

Rinse and dry

After you have cleaned the upper and laces, it’s time to rinse off any soap residue. Use a clean cloth or sponge dampened with water to wipe away the soap.

Please make sure to remove all traces of soap to prevent any damage to the material.

Once you have rinsed the boots, pat them dry with a towel or cloth. Avoid using direct heat sources such as heather or hair dryers, as this can cause the material to warp or shrink.

Condition and waterproof (Optional)

If your Merrell hiking boots are made of leather, you may want to consider conditioning them after they are dry.

Leather conditioner helps to keep the material supple and prevents it from cracking. Gently apply a modest dab of conditioner onto a clean cloth, then massage it into the leather using circular motions.

Let the conditioner soak in for a few minutes, then gently wipe away any excess.

If you frequently hike in wet or muddy conditions, you may also want to waterproof your boots. Look for a waterproofing spray specifically designed for hiking boots and follow the instructions on the product.

Please remember to apply the spray in a well-ventilated area and allow the boots to dry completely before wearing them again.

Store your boots properly

Once your Merrell hiking boots are clean and dry, it’s important to store them properly to maintain their shape and condition.

Keep them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Stuff them with newspaper or use boot trees to help them retain their shape.

I will explain this in a moment in this article.

Research has shown that regular cleaning and maintenance will not only keep your Merrell hiking boots or any boots looking great but also prolong their lifespan.

So, these are the best steps to clean your boots. There are so many other ways as well but personally, I don’t use them.

This is an easy and THE best method to clean Merrell hiking boots.

Wondering if Merrell hiking boots are a good fit for your adventures? Check out our guide to see if they meet your needs!

How to clean the inside of Merrell hiking boots?

I know you are thinking: “But Sulman you didn’t write anything about the inside of hiking boots.” Don’t worry.

Let’s clean the inside of your Merrell hiking boots.

Cleaning the inside of your Merrell hiking boots is essential not only for maintaining their performance but also for keeping your feet fresh and comfortable on your hike.

Let me guide you through the process of cleaning the inside of your Merrell hiking boots.

Gather the necessary supplies

Before you begin cleaning, gather the following supplies:

• Mild detergent or boot cleaner
• Warm water
• Soft brush or cloth
• Paper towels or clean cloth for drying
• Odor-neutralizing spray or powder (optional)

Step-by-step cleaning process

So, let’s start cleaning the inside. I would say you should start from where you left cleaning the upper side and laces of your shoes. (Remember the steps that I have told you earlier).

Step 1: Remove the insoles and laces

If you are directly starting from cleaning the inside first then start by removing the insoles and laces from your Merrell hiking boots.

By doing this, you can clean them individually and ensure thorough cleaning of the interior.

Step 2: Prepare the cleaning solution

Fill a basin or sink with warm water and add a small amount of mild detergent or boot cleaner. Stir the mixture until it becomes soapy.

Step 3: Clean the insoles

Submerge the insoles in the soapy water and softly scrub them using a gentle brush or cloth, focusing on any spots with noticeable dirt or stains.

Rinse the insoles with clean water and pat them dry with paper towels or a clean cloth. Allow them to air dry completely before placing them back into the boots.

(Remember if you have already cleaned your insoles in the steps that I have told you above then you don’t need to clean them again.)

Step 3: Clean the Interior

Dip the soft brush or cloth into the soapy water and gently scrub the inside of your Merrell hiking boots. Focus on areas that are prone to sweat and odor, such as the heel and toe box.

Be careful not to saturate the boots with water, as this can affect their performance and durability.

Once you have cleaned the interior, rinse the brush or cloth with clean water and wipe away any soap residue.

Step 5: Dry the boots

After cleaning the inside, use paper towels or a clean cloth to absorb excess moisture from the inside of the boots.

Do not place them near direct heat sources to prevent damage to the material.

Instead, let them air dry naturally in a well-ventilated area. It may take several hours for the boots to dry completely, so be patient.

Step 6: Deodorize (Optional)

If your boots still have lingering odors, you can use an odor-neutralizing spray or powder. Follow the instructions on the product and apply it to the inside of your boots.

(I am not telling you this process because I don’t know which product you will be using.)

But the easy thing is the instructions will be written on the deodorizer and it will be very easy.

After applying the deodorizer allow the boots to dry completely before wearing them again.

One thing that I have read from a source is that you can also put baking soda in your hiking boots to deodorize them.

One way is to sprinkle baking soda inside the boots and the other is(if you don’t want to sprinkle) you can put the baking soda in your two socks and then put them inside your shoes.

Put socks for one night and remove them after the night in the morning and I hope there will be no odor in your Merrell hiking shoes. (Source: goneoutdoors.com, How to Remove Odor From My Merrell Gore Tex Hiking Boots?)

Some personal tips

To keep the inside specifically of your Merrell hiking boots clean and fresh, consider these maintenance tips:

• Remove and clean the insoles after every hike.
• Avoid wearing the same pair of socks for multiple hikes.
• Air out your boots after each use to prevent moisture buildup.
• Store your boots in a cool, dry place.
• Consider using moisture-wicking or odor-resistant insoles.

How do you clean Merrell hiking boots that are made with leather?

Well, the process is the same as I have told you. But there are some changes. Let me tell you.

Things that you need:

Before you begin cleaning your leather Merrell hiking boots, make sure you have all the things on hand.

You’ll need the following:

• Soft brush or cloth
• Mild soap or leather cleaner
• Lukewarm water
• Soft cloth or sponge
• Leather conditioner or waterproofing agent

The process

So as usual first start by removing the dirt and debris from your leather boots. In leather boots pay attention to the areas where dirt tends to accumulate, such as the soles and the crevices between the upper and the sole.

Next, the same prepare a cleaning solution. Now, in other boots that are not made with leather, you can use only soap but in leather boots, you can use soap and leather cleaner as well.

So, prepare the solution with lukewarm water.

Please be sure to follow the instructions on the product label for the correct dilution ratio, if you are going to use the leather cleaner.

Also avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as they can damage the leather. Next start cleaning the boots from outside and inside.

After cleaning, rinse the cloth or sponge with clean water and remove any soap residue from the boots, Then let the boots air dry and condition them if you want.

What are the things NOT to do while Cleaning Merrell’s hiking boots?

While it’s important to clean your hiking boots regularly to remove dirt, grime, and odor, there are certain things you should avoid doing to prevent damage.

Let’s take a look at the things NOT to do when cleaning your Merrell hiking boots:

Using harsh cleaning agents

When cleaning your Merrell hiking boots, it’s best to avoid using harsh cleaning agents such as bleach, ammonia, or strong detergents.

These chemicals can strip away the natural oils and damage the materials, compromising the integrity of the boots.

Instead, opt for mild soap or a specialized boot cleaner that is specifically designed for use on hiking boots.

Soaking the boots

While it may be tempting to soak your hiking boots to get rid of stubborn stains or dirt, it’s important to avoid doing so.

Soaking can cause the boots to lose their shape, weaken the adhesives, and damage the waterproofing.

Instead, use a soft brush or cloth to gently scrub away dirt and stains. If necessary, you can use a damp cloth to wipe down the boots, but avoid excessive moisture.

Using heat to dry

After cleaning your Merrell hiking boots, it’s crucial to let them dry properly. However, using direct heat sources like heaters or hair dryers can cause the materials to shrink, crack, or warp.

Instead, let your boots air dry naturally at room temperature. Stuff them with crumpled newspaper or use boot shapers to help maintain their shape while drying.

Neglecting to remove the insoles

When cleaning your hiking boots, don’t forget to remove the insoles. Insoles can absorb sweat and odor, and if left inside the boots, they can contribute to the growth of bacteria and fungi.

Take out the insoles and clean them separately following the manufacturer’s instructions. This will help keep your boots fresh and prevent unpleasant odors.

Scrubbing too aggressively

While it’s important to remove dirt and stains, avoid scrubbing your Merrell hiking boots too aggressively.

Scrubbing too hard can damage the materials, especially if you have leather boots. Instead, use a soft brush or cloth and gentle circular motions to clean the boots.

Be patient and persistent, and avoid using excessive force.

Neglecting waterproofing treatment

Merrell hiking boots often come with waterproofing features, which help keep your feet dry in wet conditions.

However, over time, the waterproofing may wear off. To maintain the waterproof capabilities of your boots, it’s important to regularly apply a waterproofing treatment.

Please follow the manufacturer’s instructions and choose a product specifically designed for your Merrell hiking boots.

Storing dirty boots

After a hike, it’s tempting to toss your dirty boots aside and deal with them later. However, storing dirty boots can lead to the growth of mold, mildew, and unpleasant odors.

Before storing your Merrell hiking boots, make sure to clean and dry them thoroughly. Store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent damage.

These are some of the common mistakes that you should avoid.

Wondering Are Merrell hiking boots waterproof? Check out our guide to learn about the different features that keep your feet dry on the trail!

Is there any specific Merrell hiking boots cleaner?

Merrell offers a specific cleaning product called the “Merrell Athletic Gel Cleaner,” designed to effectively clean all athletic shoes, including Merrell hiking boots.

Let me tell you the details and instructions for using the Merrell Athletic Gel Cleaner.

The Merrell Athletic Gel Cleaner is a powerful cleaning gel that helps maintain the appearance of athletic shoes, including brightening and deodorizing them.

This product comes with a brush top applicator that allows for easy scrubbing to remove stains and soil from the shoes.

I have also found the usage instructions, here they are:

• Shake well before use.
• Check for color fastness before applying.
• Apply directly to the footwear by pressing down to activate the applicator.
• Scrub thoroughly and evenly in a circular motion.
• Wipe away excess cleaner and dirt with a dry cloth.
• For added protection, treat your shoes with Rain & Stain Waterproofer after each cleaning.

(Source: Merrell.com)

By using the Merrell Athletic Gel Cleaner as per the provided instructions, you can effectively clean and maintain your Merrell hiking boots, keeping them looking new and fresh for hiking.

But this is not the only product that Merrell has.

Merrell does sell a variety of shoe care products on their website that can be used to clean and protect your boots.

Let me tell you some of them:

• Rain & Stain Repeller
• Sandal Cleaner
• Athletic Gel Cleaner(told you before)
• Premium wipes
• Leather lotion

So, these are some of the products that they do offer however, a gentle dish soap and lukewarm water solution is usually enough to clean most Merrell hiking boots.

You can also find a variety of options for hiking boot cleaners at your local outdoor gear store that is near you or from an online retailer.

Just be sure to choose a cleaner that is specifically designed for footwear and appropriate for the materials of your boots to avoid any damage.

What will happen if you don’t clean Merrell’s hiking boots?

Merrell’s hiking boots are designed to withstand the toughest outdoor conditions and provide you with the necessary comfort and support during your hikes.

However, if you neglect to clean them regularly, you may experience some unwanted consequences.

When dirt, mud, and debris accumulate on your hiking boots, they can cause damage to the materials over time.

This can lead to weakened seams, cracked leather, or a breakdown of the waterproofing features. Regular cleaning helps remove these elements and extends the lifespan of your boots.

Dirty boots can affect your overall hiking experience. The accumulation of dirt and grime can make your boots heavier, reducing your agility and comfort on the trail.

Additionally, caked-on mud can affect the traction of the outsole, making it less effective in providing grip and stability.

When you don’t clean your hiking boots, bacteria and fungi can thrive in the moist environment created by sweat and moisture.

This can result in unpleasant odors that are not only bothersome but can also be difficult to eliminate.

Regular cleaning helps prevent odor build-up and keeps your boots fresh.

Merrell’s hiking boots often come with waterproofing features to keep your feet dry in wet conditions. However, if you don’t clean your boots, the accumulation of dirt and debris can compromise this waterproofing.

Cleaning your boots helps maintain their ability to repel water and keeps your feet dry during your adventures.

Lastly, neglected hiking boots can look worn out and unattractive. Cleaning your boots not only helps maintain their performance but also keeps them looking their best.

Regular cleaning can remove stains, restore color, and keep your boots looking like they now.

Can you wash Merrell’s hiking boots in the washing machine?

Merrell itself discourages washing their hiking boots in the washing machine. While some people have reported success with machine washing, it can be risky and damage the boots.

Let me tell you the pros and cons.

The first thing is the harsh tumbling and agitation of the washing machine can break down the glue, stitching, and overall structure of the boots.

The heat and spin cycle can potentially cause the boots to shrink or warp. Also, the washing machine can damage the waterproofing treatments on your boots, reducing their effectiveness.

Merrell hiking boots in the washing machine

Now, if you still decide to try machine washing (not recommended by Merrell) let me tell you the way.

I wanna clear a thing that you will be doing it at your own risk. There’s a chance you might damage your boots.

So, think twice before doing this.

Process:

• Use a cold water cycle in a gentle setting with minimal detergent.
• Throw the boots in with a load of clothes or towels to add cushioning.
• After some time if you think they are cleaned, remove them from the machine.
• After that air-dry them only.
• Never put hiking boots in the dryer, as the heat can damage the materials

The recommended ways to clean Merrell boots that Merrell recommends are:

• Handwashing with mild soap and water
• Spot cleaning for minor dirt using a damp cloth and mild soap
• Dry them at room temperature.

I also recommend that it’s best to follow Merrell’s recommendations and hand-wash your boots. This will help to ensure they last longer and maintain their performance.

What are things to remember so your Merrell hiking boots won’t get so dirty?

Merrell hiking boots will inevitably get dirty over time. To keep your Merrell hiking boots looking their best and ensure their longevity. Let me give you a few things to remember.

Final Thoughts on How to Clean Merrell Hiking Boots?

Taking care of your Merrell hiking boots is crucial for their longevity and performance. Regular cleaning with mild soap and water, along with proper maintenance, can help keep your boots in top condition.

Please remember to remove dirt and debris, clean the interior, and consider waterproofing for added protection.

By following these steps, you can ensure that your Merrell hiking boots are always ready for your next hiking.

So, have you learned how to clean your Merrell hiking boots effectively?

Let me know in the comments.

Frequently Asked Questions Related to How to Clean Merrell Hiking Boots?