How To Waterproof Boots with Vaseline? [Step By Step Process]
Boots are the favorite kind of footwear for many people, and they can add more style and zest to the rest of the outfit. However, all boots are not the most weather-proof footwear, especially against water.
Wearing them outdoors when there is even a slight chance of water exposure does not seem like a great idea. Hence, when the rain comes, the boots are sent into hibernation in the shoe rack until boot-friendly weather arrives.
Fortunately, there are ways that you can use to make your boots waterproof at home easily. One such simple and effective method is using Vaseline, A.K.A. petroleum jelly.
Waterproofing boots with Vaseline is not a new discovery and has been in practice for a while. Hence, if you need waterproof boots quickly and easily, this method is for you.
Can You Use Vaseline to Waterproof My Boots?
Vaseline or petroleum jelly is a wax-like substance acquired from petroleum material in oil rigs. While a lot of people already trust Vaseline as a moisturizer and lubricant, the question arises: is it safe to use on boots? The answer is yes.
Vaseline has procured itself the title of a versatile product. We all are familiar with its moisturizing abilities for the skin, but one of its other valuable properties is waterproofing.
Applying it to your boots will prevent water from seeping through the boot by creating a tight waterproof seal. Hence, giving you perfectly dry feet even when you step in a puddle by mistake.
Another reason why Vaseline is an excellent product for boots is that it restores their glory that was lost due to harsh weather elements.
Leather boots often lose their softness to overuse. By applying Vaseline, the essential oils that were stripped by weather can be restored. Hence, making the boots supple and comfortable.
Moreover, oils in petroleum jelly can rejuvenate the fibers of the boots that can heal scratches and scuffs. This also enhances the color richness. Hence, using Vaseline, you can get complete shoe care benefits in one product.
How To Waterproof Boots with Vaseline?
As discussed earlier, Vaseline creates a water barrier over the boots that will prevent water from seeping through the seams of the material itself.
However, one should keep in mind that the vaseline coat starts to melt at room temperature and will soon wear down. Hence, you will need to reapply the Vaseline very often.
Required Items
Step by Step Process
1. Clean the boots
If dust or stain is present on the boots, they should be cleaned before applying Vaseline. For cleaning boots, the best method is to use water and any mild cleaning solution for footwear. Mix the water and cleaning solution and use a soft bristle brush to scrub the boots.
Pay particular care to areas that have stains or grease. Once the boots are completely clean, leave them to dry. Make sure that the boot is completely dry before applying Vaseline.
2. Apply Vaseline
Take around a teaspoon of Vaseline and use your index finger or cotton cloth to rub on the boots. Use circular motions while rubbing. The areas that require the most care when applying Vaseline are the seams.
Seams have small openings that are the leading reason for leakage in boots. Hence, make sure you cover all the seams well.
Gently rub the Vaseline in a circular motion to ensure that it is able to reach the fibers of the boots. Once the first boot is entirely covered, repeat the process on the second.
3. Use hairdryer
During cold conditions, Vaseline may take more time than usual to melt. At such times, using a hairdryer can be effective. Set the blow dryer at the lowest temperature and keep it at least six inches away from the boots. Using it only once will do the trick.
Note that Vaseline begins to melt at room temperature; hence this step is optional. It may not be required if the weather is warm.
4. Remove excess Vaseline
You do want your boots to look greasy, and grease will also result in more dust sticking to the boots. Hence, use a cotton or any other lint-free cloth to wipe the boots to remove or buff excess Vaseline.
5. Test the boots
Sprinkle a small amount of water to check that water is not getting absorbed anywhere on the boots. Pay special attention to the seams, as this is where the majority of holes are present. If you find an area where leakage persists, repeat steps 1, 2, and 3.
6. Let the boots dry
You may be very eager to wear your waterproof boots outside. Still, you must give them ample time to dry after applying Vaseline.
Leave the boots for drying in a cool and dry place away from any direct source of heat for at least an hour. Then your boots will be ready to protect your feet from the water.
Precautions
- Too much Vaseline can swell up the fibers of the boot and make them loose. Hence, be mindful that you do not apply Vaseline too much or too often on your boots.
- Always check the instructions with your boots before using a hairdryer, as some boots can get damaged by heat.
Time
The most time-taking parts of this method are cleaning and drying the boots. The cleaning itself can take 30 to 45 minutes, while drying can take up to an hour or more, depending on the weather.
Applying Vaseline and buffing can take up to 30 minutes. Including the wait of an hour after application, this method will take three to four hours.
Cost
A standard quality cleaning solution and a soft-bristle brush can be bought for under 30 USD. You can get a sufficient quantity of Vaseline in 5 to 7 USD.
Including the cost of lint-free cloth or wipes (5 to 8 USD), the total budget will be around 40 – 50 USD.
There you have it, the simplest method to make your boots waterproof using Vaseline. Now, you can wear your favorite boots out in the rain without worrying about getting your feet wet.
Remember that the key to having leakage-free boots is replenishing the waterproof coat time and time again. Although, one should remember that it is not possible to completely waterproof any footwear, at least not for long.
