How to Clean Felt Shoes After Fishing: 3 Different Methods

Felt shoes are commonly used for fishing due to their traction on wet surfaces and their water-resistant properties. However, cleaning them after fishing is important to maintain their appearance and prolong their lifespan. These shoes can accumulate dirt, mud, and odors from water and outdoor environments.

You can follow three different methods to clean your felt shoes after fishing. Basic or spot cleaning using a brush or cloth to remove dirt and debris from the surface of Felt shoes, gentle hand washing with lukewarm water and mild detergent, or using a washing machine.

The upcoming sections describe these methods and how you can effectively clean your Felt shoes by following the instructions. So keep reading for detailed information.

How to Clean Felt Shoes After Fishing: Different Methods

After a fishing trip, you can try several methods when cleaning your Felt shoes.

• Method 1: Basic or spot cleaning
  • STEP 1. Mix a solution of water and dish soap
  • STEP 2. Scrub the Felt shoe surface
  • STEP 3. Rinse the shoe thoroughly
• Method 2: Gentle hand washing
  • STEP 1: Prepare the cleaning mixture
  • STEP 2: Soak the Felt shoes
  • STEP 3: Give a gentle scrub
  • STEP 4: Rinse well
  • STEP 5: Reshape and air dry
• Method 3: Using a washing machine (caution)
  • STEP 1: Check the care label
  • STEP 2: Remove excess dirt and debris
  • STEP 3: Place the shoes in a mesh laundry bag
  • STEP 4: Use a gentle cycle with cold water and a mild detergent
  • STEP 5: Avoid using fabric softener
  • STEP 6: Reshape the shoes and air dry

Let’s discuss these methods in detail:

Method 1: Basic or Spot Cleaning

Let’s start with the basic or spot-cleaning method, ideal for fresh stains and light dirt.

STEP 1. Mix a Solution of Water and Dish Soap

To begin, you’ll need to mix a solution of cold water and mild dish soap in a small bucket. Make sure that the water is cold, as hot water can cause the Felt to shrink and lose its shape.

STEP 2. Scrub the Felt Shoe Surface

Once you have your solution ready, it’s time to get scrubbing. You can use a soft-bristled brush or a clean cloth to scrub the stained areas of your shoes gently. Soft-bristled brushes or clean cloths should be dipped into the solution and gently scrubbed over the stained area with the brush.

This will lift any dirt or grime stain accumulated on the Felt material’s surface. It’s important to be gentle here, as scrubbing too vigorously can damage the material and leave your shoes looking worse than before.

STEP 3. Rinse the Shoe Thoroughly

After scrubbing, rinse your shoes with cold water to remove any remaining soap residue. Then, pat them dry with a clean towel. You can easily remove unpleasant smells from your shoes by spraying lemon water if your Felt shoes still have that odor after washing them.

This will neutralize any odors and give them a fresh, clean scent. Mix equal parts water and lemon juice in a spray bottle to make lemon water and give your shoes a good spritz.

Method 2: Gentle Hand Washing

After a long day of fishing, Felt shoes can accumulate dirt, stains, and odor. So you must carefully hand wash them to clean these dirt and stains.

STEP 1: Prepare the Cleaning Mixture

Begin by preparing the cleaning solution. Mix lukewarm water and mild detergent in a basin. The detergent should be gentle enough not to damage the delicate Felt material of the shoes.

STEP 2: Soak the Felt Shoes

Submerge the Felt shoes in the cleaning mixture and let them soak for 10 minutes. This will help to loosen up any dirt, grime, or accumulated stains over time.

STEP 3: Give a Gentle Scrub

Using a soft-bristled brush, gently scrub the Felt shoes. Focus on stubborn stains or areas that appear dirty, but be cautious not to scrub too harshly. Felt is a delicate material that can get damaged with too much force.

STEP 4: Rinse Well

Rinse the shoes or boots thoroughly with clean water until the water runs clear. Gently press out any excess water without wringing out or twisting the shoes. This is important to maintain their shape and avoid any deformation or damage.

STEP 5: Reshape and Air Dry

Reshape the shoes by hand and let them air dry in a dark and shaded spot. Do not use a dryer or place the shoes in direct sunlight, as these can cause damage to the Felt material.

Method 3: Using a Washing Machine (Caution

If you use a washing machine to clean your Felt shoes, here are some steps to do it properly.

STEP 1: Check the Care Label

Before you proceed with machine washing, check the instructions on your Felt shoes. Not all Felt shoes are suitable for machine washing, so explicitly following the manufacturer’s instructions is essential. If the label indicates that the shoes are machine washable, proceed with the following steps.

STEP 2: Remove Excess Dirt and Debris

Start by removing excess dirt and debris from your Felt shoes using a soft brush or vacuum. This step will make it easier to remove any stubborn stains and prevent clogging your washing machine with large debris.

STEP 3: Place the Shoes in a Mesh Laundry Bag

To protect your Felt shoes during the wash cycle, place them in a mesh laundry bag. A mesh bag will help prevent the shoes from getting tangled or damaged during the spin cycle.

STEP 4: Use a Gentle Cycle with Cold Water and a Mild Detergent

Once your shoes are securely in the mesh laundry bag, it’s time to set up your washing machine. Select a gentle cycle with cold water and mild detergent. Avoid harsh chemicals or bleach, which can damage the delicate Felt material.

STEP 5: Avoid Using Fabric Softener

While fabric softener may be great for your clothes, Felt shoes are not recommended. Fabric softeners can affect the Felt material and lose shape and elasticity. Avoid using fabric softener altogether, and opt for a mild detergent instead.

STEP 6: Reshape the Shoes and Air Dry

After the wash cycle, remove your Felt shoes from the laundry bag and reshape them carefully. Ensure they maintain their original shape so they don’t shrink or deform during drying. Finally, let your shoes air dry in a shaded area, avoiding exposure to direct sunlight or heat sources.

Note: This method is suitable only for Felt shoes made from certain safe machine-washing materials. Always check the care label on your shoes before attempting this method.

What kind of soap should I use for Felt shoe cleaning after fishing?

To effectively clean your Felt shoes after a long fishing day, use a gentle laundry detergent like Woolite or a dye and fragrance-free alternative. These detergents are designed to be gentle on delicate fabrics like Felt, ensuring that your shoes are cleaned effectively without causing any damage.

When choosing a soap for cleaning your Felt shoes, it is important to avoid harsh chemicals or strong fragrances that can potentially alter the texture or color of the material. Here are five soap options that are suitable for cleaning Felt shoes after fishing:

• Woolite: A gentle detergent specifically designed for delicate fabrics.
• Baby shampoo: Mild and gentle, making it a safe option for cleaning Felt shoes.
• Castile soap: Made from natural ingredients, this soap is gentle on Felt.
• Neutrogena Pure Mild Facial Cleanser: A fragrance-free, dye-free option that is safe for Felt.
• Dr. Bronner’s Pure-Castile Liquid Soap: A versatile soap that is gentle enough for Felt shoes.

What temperature can Felt shoes be washed at?

When washing your Felt shoes, use cold water to avoid shrinking the material. Felt is a delicate fabric that can easily be damaged by heat, so keeping the water temperature low is essential.

Cold water, generally between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit or 16 to 27 degrees Celsius, is ideal for cleaning Felt shoes. Using hot water can cause the fibers to contract and shrink, ruining the shape and fit of your shoes.

Mix the cold water with mild soap to clean your Felt shoes effectively. This combination will help remove dirt and stains without causing any damage to the material.

Can I use rubbing alcohol to clean my fishing Felt shoes?

When washing your Felt fishing shoes after a fishing trip, you may wonder if rubbing alcohol is a safe and effective option. Rubbing alcohol efficiently eliminates germs and is safe for most shoes, including Felt shoes.

Here’s how you can use rubbing alcohol to clean your Felt shoes:

1. Mix a three-to-one concoction of rubbing alcohol and water in a spray bottle.
2. Gently spray the mixture onto the surface of your Felt shoes.
3. Use a soft cloth or sponge to rub the solution into the fabric gently.
4. Allow the shoes to air dry completely before using them again for fishing.
5. Repeat this process as needed to keep your Felt shoes clean and fresh.

Keep Your Felt Shoes Fresh and Clean for Your Next Fishing Trip

Now you know the various methods for cleaning your Felt shoes after a fishing trip. Whether you choose to use a gentle detergent, dish soap, or even rubbing alcohol, make sure to follow the instructions carefully.

Remember to wash your shoes in cold water to prevent any damage to the Felt material. Also, don’t forget to let them air dry completely before wearing them again.

By keeping your Felt shoes clean and fresh, you’ll be ready for your next fishing adventure in no time, without a hitch. So, get ready to hit the water with clean kicks and reel in the big catch.