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One muddy walk across a UK footpath can leave nubuck boots looking worse for wear. Nubuck has a soft, brushed surface, so the trick is to lift dirt gently rather than scrub the leather or soak it through. Here is how to clean nubuck leather boots at home, without flattening the finish.
What you’ll need
- A soft, clean brush for loose, dry mud
- A clean microfibre cloth and a little water
- A cleaner labelled suitable for nubuck, such as JOBOLT Eco-Friendly Shoe Cleaner Gel
- Time to let the boots air dry completely
Step 1: Let the mud dry, then brush it away
Resist rubbing wet mud into the nap. Once it is dry, use a soft brush with light strokes to loosen surface dirt. Pay attention to seams and the edges around the sole, but don’t press hard enough to scuff the upper.
Step 2: Test a small area before using cleaner
Check the boot maker’s care label first. Test your cleaner on an inconspicuous patch and let it dry to check for colour change. For a gentle clean, put a small amount of JOBOLT Eco-Friendly Shoe Cleaner Gel on a damp microfibre cloth. It is listed for nubuck and suede as well as textile uppers, but not for smooth leather.
Step 3: Clean gently and wipe away residue
Work the damp cloth over the affected area in gentle circular motions, using minimal product. Wipe away the loosened dirt with a clean section of cloth. For a stubborn mark, the gel’s product instructions allow up to 30 minutes before wiping it away. Repeat lightly if needed rather than scrubbing aggressively. The JOBOLT Shoe Cleaning Kit is another option if you want a cleaner and care tools together.
Step 4: Air dry, then restore the nap
Leave the boots to dry naturally in a ventilated spot, away from radiators, fires and direct heat. Once fully dry, brush the nubuck lightly to lift its soft finish again. Don’t judge the colour while the leather is still damp.
How do you protect nubuck boots after cleaning?
Keeping grit off the surface and cleaning marks early helps your boots stay in good shape. If your boots need renewed water resistance for wet UK walks, choose a protector specifically suitable for nubuck and follow the boot maker’s instructions. Cleaner removes dirt; it is not a substitute for a waterproofing treatment. Always test any treatment on a discreet patch first.
For your next muddy outing, keep a soft brush and cloth handy. When a deeper clean is due, use the JOBOLT Eco-Friendly Shoe Cleaner Gel on nubuck or pick up the JOBOLT Shoe Cleaning Kit for a practical care setup.
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