Mildew has a characteristic musty smell that can quickly become overpowering. Hunting boots are particularly vulnerable because they’re often covered in mud and wet debris and exposed to the elements. If you don’t take steps to remove the mildew, it will start to build up and leave an unpleasant odor in your boots. Fortunately, there are a few simple ways to get rid of this smell without resorting to harsh chemicals.
In this article, we’ll cover:
- What causes a mildew smell in hunting boots?
- How to remove mildew smell from your hunting boots
- Tips for preventing future mildew growth
Contents
What Causes Mildew Smell in Hunting Boots?
Mildew is a type of fungus that can grow on any damp surface. It thrives in warm, humid conditions, which makes hunting boots the perfect breeding ground for this growth. The spores from mildew give off a strong musty smell that can quickly become overwhelming if not dealt with promptly.
How to Remove Mildew Smell From Your Hunting Boots
The good news is that you don’t need harsh chemicals to eliminate the smell of mildew from your hunting boots. Here are a few natural solutions you can try:
Vinegar Solution
Fill your sink or bucket with water and add 1 cup of white vinegar per gallon. Submerge your boots in the solution and leave them to soak for 2-3 hours. Use a soft brush to scrub off any mildew that remains, then rinse the boots with clean water and let them air dry.
Baking Soda Solution
Mix ¼ cup of baking soda with 1 gallon of hot water. Submerge your boots in the solution for an hour, then rub off any mildew using a soft brush. Rinse your boots with clean water and leave them to air dry.
Sun Dry
If you are unable to submerge your boots in a vinegar or baking soda solution, you can leave them out in the sun for a few hours. This will help dry out any damp areas and reduce the mildew smell. Make sure to turn your boots every hour so that both sides get equal exposure to the heat of the sun.
Freezing Method
During winter or if you have access to a deep freezer, you can try this trick for your boots: place them in a plastic bag and freeze them overnight. The freezing temperatures can effectively eliminate mildew and minimize unpleasant odors.
Activated Charcoal or Coffee Grounds
Fill a pair of clean socks or stockings with activated charcoal or coffee grounds and place them inside your boots. Let them sit for at least 8 hours, then discard the used material. For better results, you can repeat this process several times until the odor is completely gone.
Odor-Eliminating Sprays
There are many commercial odor-eliminating sprays in the market specifically designed to tackle mildew smells. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and avoid spraying directly onto any materials or fabrics, as these sprays can cause discoloration.
Washable Insoles
If your boots have removable insoles, remove them and wash them in the washing machine. Let them air dry completely before placing them back inside the boots. This will help minimize any lingering odors.
Tea Tree Oil Solution
Mix 1 tablespoon of tea tree oil in a cup of water and spray the solution onto the inside of your boots. Let them sit for an hour before wiping off any excess liquid with a clean cloth. Repeat this process as needed until the mildew smell disappears. Tea tree oil is a natural disinfectant that can help eliminate unpleasant odors.
Lemon Juice and Baking Soda
Mix equal parts of lemon juice and baking soda to create a paste. Apply the mixture onto any areas where you suspect mildew has formed, then scrub gently with a soft-bristled brush. Let the paste sit for an hour before rinsing it away with clean water.
Orange Peels
Orange peels contain natural oils that can help neutralize unpleasant odors. Place orange peels inside your boots and let them sit for a few hours before discarding the used material.
Vinegar Soak
For a deeper clean, you can fill your bathtub with enough water to cover the boots and pour 1 cup of white vinegar per gallon. Submerge your boots in the solution and leave them to soak for 12 hours or overnight. Scrub off any remaining mildew using a soft brush, then rinse with clean water and let them air dry completely.
Tips for Preventing Future Mildew Growth
To prevent mildew from building up in your hunting boots, try the following tips:
- Remove mud and debris from your boots after every use. This will reduce dampness and help keep mildew at bay.
- Allow your boots to dry completely before storing them away.
- Stuff your boots with newspaper after each use to help them dry faster.
- Store your boots in an area that is well-ventilated and away from moisture.
- Use a mildew-repellent product specifically designed for hunting boots when necessary.
- Silica gel packs are moisture-absorbing packets that you can place inside your boots when storing them.
- There are sprays specifically formulated to kill bacteria and mold that cause odors and mildew.
- Consider replacing the original insoles in your boots with moisture-wicking or anti-microbial insoles.
- Using waterproofing sprays can help create a barrier against moisture and water, which can in turn help prevent mildew growth.
- Some specialized devices use UV light to kill bacteria and mold spores in your boots.
FAQs
How long should I soak my hunting boots in a vinegar solution?
You should leave your boots to soak for 2-3 hours in a solution of 1 cup of white vinegar per gallon of water.
What’s the best way to remove mud and debris from my hunting boots?
The best way to remove mud and debris is by using a stiff-bristled brush. Start by scraping off any large chunks of dirt, then use a damp cloth to wipe away any remaining residue.
Can I place my hunting boots in the washing machine?
No, you should never put your hunting boots in the washing machine as this can damage them. Instead, use one of the solutions mentioned above to safely get rid of mildew and unpleasant odors.
Are there any natural solutions I can use to prevent mildew growth on my hunting boots?
Yes, you can try using orange peels. Place orange peels inside your boots and let them sit for a few hours before discarding the used material. Orange peels contain natural oils that can help neutralize unpleasant odors and keep mildew at bay. You can also try using a solution of tea tree oil and water to get rid of mildew smells. Mix 1 tablespoon of tea tree oil in a cup of water and spray the solution onto the inside of your boots. Let them sit for an hour before wiping off any excess liquid with a clean cloth. Repeat this process as needed until the mildew smell disappears.
Will vinegar remove mildew from leather hunting boots?
Yes, soaking your leather hunting boots in a solution of 1 cup of white vinegar per gallon of water for 2-3 hours can help eliminate mildew and unpleasant odors. After soaking them in the solution, scrub off any remaining mildew using a soft brush, then rinse with clean water and let them air dry completely.
Can mildew hunting boots be saved?
Yes, mildew hunting boots can usually be saved if the right steps are taken. However, some materials and fabrics may be permanently damaged by mildew and require replacement. To get rid of unpleasant odors and mildew, you can try using solutions like freezing temperatures, activated charcoal or coffee grounds, odor-eliminating sprays, washable insoles, a tea tree oil solution, lemon juice and baking soda mixture, orange peels or a vinegar soak. Additionally, you should take steps to prevent mold growth in the future by removing mud and debris from your boots after every use and allowing them to dry completely before storing.
Will mildew come out of leather?
Yes, mildew can be removed from leather with the right cleaning solutions. You can try using a solution of 1 cup of white vinegar per gallon of water to soak your leather boots for 2-3 hours. After soaking them in the solution, scrub off any remaining mildew using a soft brush, then rinse with clean water and let them air dry completely.
Conclusion
Getting rid of the mildew smell from your hunting boots can be a challenge, but with the right techniques and solutions, it’s possible to get them smelling fresh again. Try one of the methods mentioned above or use a combination of several to tackle even the toughest odors. Make sure to dry any damp areas thoroughly after each use and store your boots in a dry, well-ventilated area to prevent mildew growth. With a little bit of effort, you can keep your hunting boots smelling fresh for years to come.
Remember: Cleaning and care are key when it comes to preserving the life of your hunting boots. Keep them clean and always make sure they have plenty of time to dry before storing them away. With these tips in mind, you can enjoy your hunting boots for years to come. Happy hunting!
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