How To Keep Wading Boots Clean And Disinfected
There is a little effort needed when it comes to cleaning and taking care of your wading boots. Fortunately, it’s not very complicated. Once you determine the right cleaning procedure for you, looking after your boots will become a quick and easy post-fishing routine. Here are a few tips to help you out.
- Scrub Your Boots by the Stream
One way to keep your boots clean is to scrub them by the stream to remove debris, must and other invasive species. Simply carry a stiff-bristled brush with you and add a little elbow grease. Either take your boots off as you exit the water for cleaning or change into your usual shoes before getting into the car.
If you’re looking for new boots, there are a good variety of wading boots being sold at Fly Fishing Tackle Co UK.
Whichever you prefer, you can use your brush and some stream water to scrub away mud, algae and sand. Inspect your boot’s laces, seams and tread to ensure you haven’t missed any dirt. Then, give the boots a good rinse both inside and out and leave them to dry. Remember to give them a good shake out.
- Disinfecting the Boots at Home
If you’ve been fishing in waters that do have invasive species, such as hydrilla, didymo or mud snails, make sure you follow state-issued guidelines for disinfecting fishing gear. Besides keeping the local streams clean and healthy, disinfecting your wading boots on a regular basis is a good way to get rid of bacteria that could lead to fungus, mould and other odours.
One of the easiest ways to disinfect your boots is to place them in hot water of at least 140 degrees for about three minutes.
Another idea is to freeze the wading boots for 48 hours or more to kill microorganisms. All you have to do is stick the boots in a rubbish bag and place them in your freezer. Just remember to thaw them out in time for you next fishing trip.
- Leave Boots to Drain and Dry
Once you have scrubbed and disinfected your wading boots, be sure to leave them to dry completely to reduce any bacterial growth. The best way to do this is to leave them in direct sunlight, but don’t leave them out any longer than necessary as overexposure to the sun could damage the materials.
You could also use your clothes dryer like this:
- Tie the laces of both boots together
- Holding the boots by the laces, hang them over the door of the clothes dryer, with the boots on the inside of the dryer.
- Close the door of the dryer to just where it pinches the laces and holds the boots in place.
- Run a regular drying cycle to dry your boots.
Keep Your Wading Boots Clean
Looking after your wading boots can help to extend their life. Always check with local authorities, though, to determine what to do so you don’t spread any invasive species by mistake.
