Hey there, buddy! If you’ve got a pair of Merrell Hiking shoes, you already know how awesome they are when you’re out exploring nature. They’re like superhero shoes, right? You can splash through rivers, stomp on muddy paths, and wander over pebbly grounds, all while your feet stay comfy and safe.
But wait! Once you’re back from your adventure, your shoes might look like they’ve been through a mud wrestling match. So, you might be wondering, “Can I just toss them in the washing machine?” Hold on! Let’s chat about that.
Nope, your Merrell hiking shoes shouldn’t go for a spin in the washing machine. Why? Well, the leather and the sticky stuff (adhesive) that keeps your shoes together could get messed up in there. Instead, the Merrell shoe experts tell us to gently scrub them with a brush and some mild soap. Then, let them air dry in a cool spot, not too hot or too cold. It’s like giving your shoes a spa day!
How to Clean Your Merrell Hiking Shoes
So, you’ve been out on an adventure with your trusty Merrell hiking shoes, and now they’re all dirty and maybe even a little smelly? No worries, I’ve got you covered. Let’s talk about how to clean them up and make them feel fresh again.
1. Gentle Cleaning is the Key
Throwing your shoes into the washing machine? Big no-no! It’s not good for them. Instead, grab an old toothbrush (or any soft brush) and gently scrub away the dirt. Also, don’t forget to take out any tiny stones or gravel that might be stuck in the shoe’s sole.
Now, take out the laces and set them aside. We’ll clean those separately. Once that’s done, mix a little mild soap with water and gently clean the outside of your shoes. This should help them sparkle again!
2. Picking the Right Soap
Now, you might be wondering, “Which soap should I use?” Here’s my recommendation:
- Dr. Bronner’s Soap: It’s mild, made from natural stuff, and is really gentle on your shoes. Plus, no nasty chemicals! Perfect for a good clean without any damage.
- Alternative choice: Try the Gear Aid Boot and Shoe Cleaner. It’s specially made for hiking shoes. This cleaner not only cleans but also preps your shoes if you want to waterproof them later. Neat, right?
3. Drying the Right Way
After the wash, shake off the extra water from your shoes. Now, you might think, “I’ll just pop them in the dryer!” Nope, not a good idea. Too much heat can mess them up.
Instead, take out the insole, let it dry separately. Then, stuff your shoes with newspapers or paper towels to soak up any extra moisture inside. Let them dry at room temperature, away from direct sunlight or heat. It might take a day or two, but it’s worth it. Once they’re dry, put back the laces and insoles.
4. Got Stinky Shoes? Here’s Why and What to Do
Let’s face it, after a long hike, shoes can get sweaty and smelly. The main culprit? Sweat! And guess what, the type of socks you wear can make a difference.
To keep your feet and shoes feeling fresh:
- Wear Wool Hiking Socks: Unlike regular cotton or gym socks, wool hiking socks do an awesome job of soaking up sweat. This means less sweat in your shoes, and less chance of them getting stinky.
Our Top Sock Picks:
- Women’s Darn Tough Boot Cushion Sock on Amazon
- Men’s Darn Tough Boot Cushion Sock on Amazon
Still got some shoe odor after cleaning? Use an odor eliminator spray and let your shoes dry out properly. Always remember, dry shoes are happy shoes!
How Can I Waterproof My Merrell Hiking Shoes?
Noticed that your Merrell hiking shoes aren’t as waterproof as they used to be? As we adventure more and more, the waterproof layer on our shoes can wear off. But guess what? You can bring it back! Let’s dive into how.
1. Get Ready to Waterproof
First thing’s first – make sure your shoes are clean. Yep, give them a good cleaning as we discussed earlier. The best time to waterproof is right after you’ve washed off the soap. Got it? Alright, let’s move on.
2. Prepping the Shoes
Before you start, remove those laces. If your shoes are made of leather, we’ll need to get them a bit wet. Take a damp towel and wrap it around your shoes. This helps the leather soak in some water, which will make our waterproofing treatment work even better.
3. Applying the Waterproof Treatment
Now, follow the steps of your waterproofing treatment. Make sure to cover every part of your shoes. Once you’re done, let them dry. And voila! Your shoes should feel just like new, ready to tackle those rainy trails without soaking your feet.
Storing Your Merrell Hiking Shoes The Right Way
After your awesome adventure and cleaning session, it’s time to give your shoes some rest. But wait! How you store them matters.
1. The Perfect Spot
First, make sure they’re completely dry. Keep them away from direct sunlight. Then, find a cool, dark, and dry corner in your house. This spot will be their new home. Why? Because sunlight, heat, and moisture can mess with the materials of your shoes. Sunlight can dry out the leather and rubber parts, while humidity can bring about mold or that icky stench.
2. Keeping Them Fresh
Concerned about your shoes getting stinky? Pop in some shoe deodorizers! They work like magic to keep your shoes smelling fresh.
Wrapping It Up
I know, cleaning and storing hiking shoes isn’t the most fun thing to do after an exhilarating hike. But think of it this way: by cleaning them by hand and letting them air dry, you’re not just getting clean shoes, but you’re also ensuring they last longer and perform better.
Remember, how you care for and store your Merrell hiking shoes can make a big difference. Keep them in a cool, dry place, and they’ll be all set to accompany you on your next adventure. Happy hiking and take care of those shoes! 🌲🥾🌧️
