With Spring around the corner, we’ll soon be seeing the April showers, and our kids will be eager to get outside and go puddle-jumping! It’s time to switch out the winter clothing for spring and make sure everything fits well and is in good shape. Especially their wellies! They’re the most important clothing items for spring and can be costly to replace. Here are tips on how to take care of your rubber boots.
Wellington (Rubber) boots, also known as “wellies,” are the top choice of footwear for kids in spring for all the puddle jumping and muddy fields. They are durable, waterproof, and can last for years, making them the perfect item to hand down to younger siblings and friends. Here are some tips on how to take care of your rubber boots:
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Clean your rubber boots regularly
After each use, especially if your kids have been in the mud, remove any dirt on the surface, this will prevent it from drying and staining. Avoid using harsh chemicals or brushes that can damage the material and shorten the lifespan of your boots.
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Dry your boots thoroughly
After cleaning, let your boots air dry completely. Do not expose them to direct heat or sunlight, as this can cause the rubber to crack or fade. If your kids have been out puddle jumping, some water may have splashed inside, so stuff them with newspaper or a towel to absorb any moisture inside the boots and prevent mold.
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Store your boots properly
Store your rubber boots in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight when not in use. Avoid folding or creasing them, as this can damage the rubber and cause it to crack. You can also use a boot rack or stand to keep them upright.
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Apply a protective coating
If you’ve already spent a lot on the wellies and want them to last, getting a silicone spray is worth the investment. If your kids are going to outgrow them in the next year or so, it may not be worth it. However, if you’re considering your boots as a hand-me-hand, keeping them as good as new is worth it! Apply a protective coating such as silicone spray or wax to keep your wellies looking new and shiny. This will help repel water and prevent the rubber from cracking or fading.
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Check for damage
Regularly inspect your boots for any signs of wear or tear. Check the soles, seams, and lining for any holes or cracks. Well-used wellies can crack on the bottom and allow water to seep in – leaving your kids with soaking wet feet, which makes kids miserable. So check them and replace them if you see any cracks in the rubber.
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Label your rubber boots with waterproof shoe labels.
Labeling your boots means you won’t lose them! Mabel’s Labels has waterproof shoe labels that will ensure they don’t get lost. If you plan on handing down the boots- don’t worry; Mabel’s Labels are super adhesive and will last through many lives! One tip for labeling boots you want to pass down to siblings is to use only the surname on your labels. Then, they can be passed along easily.
Check out the Clothing Label Pack to keep your boots (and all raingear) coming home each day! Or the left-right Preschool Shoe Labels if your kids struggle to get their boots on the correct feet. The left-right designs make it easy to match up the image. These waterproof labels can be stuck to the sole of the boot or the outside of the boot for more visibility. Plus, the designs and color palettes can be matched to your cute rubber boots!
Take care of your boots, and they will serve you well through many rainy days, puddle jumping and muddy fields, and multiple kids’.
