How to Clean Your Child’s Rain Boots - And Make Them Last Longer

Children’s rain boots are built for adventure — muddy parks, wet pavements, forest school chaos and everything in between. But even the best-made wellies need a little TLC now and then.

At Babylosophy, we’ve designed our Rain Boots to be durable and easy to care for. Still, with the right cleaning routine, you can make them last longer, look better, and stay comfortable for your child through every soggy season.

Here’s how we (and many parents like you) keep them in tip-top shape.

Quick Rinse After Each Use

If your child’s boots are caked in mud, don’t wait until it dries into cement. Just give them a gentle rinse with water from the garden hose or under the tap.

• Don’t use hot water — warm or cool water is best.
• Avoid harsh scrubbing brushes that can scuff the rubber surface.

Let the boots drip dry upside down, or stuff them with newspaper or dry cloths to absorb moisture inside.

Weekly Wipe-Down

Once a week (or whenever you remember), give the boots a quick wipe using:

• A damp cloth
• Mild soap (dish soap is fine)
• Avoid bleach or anything with solvents — natural rubber doesn’t like it

This keeps the surface clean and removes any stubborn dirt.

Avoid Direct Heat or Sunlight

Natural rubber is wonderfully soft and flexible — but like skin, it can crack or fade if it gets too much sun or heat.

• Don’t leave boots on radiators or by a heater
• Don’t dry them in direct sunlight for long periods
• Instead, air-dry them naturally indoors or in the shade

Keep Them Fresh Inside

Let’s be honest — kids’ boots can get a bit… pongy.

To keep the inside fresh:

• Sprinkle a little bicarbonate of soda in overnight
• Leave them open to air rather than zipped away in a bag
• Use dry socks — wet cotton can trap odours

If needed, give the inner lining a wipe with a damp cloth and mild soap, then let it fully dry.

Restore the Shine (Optional)

Over time, natural rubber may develop a white, powdery film. Don’t worry — it’s normal, and called “blooming”.

To fix it:

• Rub a small amount of olive oil or natural rubber conditioner onto the boot with a soft cloth
• Wipe off any excess
• Avoid silicone-based sprays or strong cleaners

This brings back the lovely original finish and helps keep the rubber supple.

Store Them Properly

When not in use:

• Keep boots upright, not folded
• Store them somewhere cool and dry, away from heat sources
• Don’t leave them crumpled in a car boot or damp hallway corner for weeks!

In Summary

Taking care of your child’s wellies doesn’t need to be a big job — just a bit of rinse, rest and common sense.

Babylosophy’s Morden Rain Boots are made from natural rubber, so they’re softer, more flexible, and more comfortable than plastic alternatives — but they do deserve a little love.

Look after them, and they’ll carry your little one through countless puddles, park runs, and wet school days with ease.