Boot Cleaning & Decon Essentials

Firefighters, EMTs, and Law Enforcement pros face tough conditions every day — and sometimes that includes direct exposure to blood, bodily fluids, chemicals, or viruses. One question that comes up a lot:  What should you do if your boots get exposed?

While no process can guarantee 100% elimination of all pathogens, following proper boot cleaning and decontamination steps will greatly reduce risks and help keep you protected — on and off the job.

First Things First: Take Boots Out of Service

If your boots have been exposed to blood, bodily fluids, or other contaminants, don’t just wipe them down and keep moving.
Remove them from service until they can be properly cleaned and disinfected.
(We’re talking about exterior exposure here — not internal contamination, which requires different handling.)

When handling contaminated boots, always use universal precautions — at a minimum:
🧤 NFPA 1999-certified gloves
🦺 Consider adding a sleeved apron and/or respirator if the exposure was significant.

Cleaning Your Boots: The Basics

Start with a good, old-fashioned warm water and mild soap wash:
🧽 Use a soft cloth or brush to scrub the leather and outsoles.
🧼 Mild soap + warm water works for most general cleaning and grime removal.

Disinfecting the Right Way: What to Use (and What to Avoid)

Once your boots are clean, it’s time to disinfect. Not all disinfectants are created equal — and the wrong one can damage your boots or reduce their protective properties.

✅ Use an EPA-registered disinfectant that:

  • Has an EPA IV toxicity rating (safe enough for use on children’s toys)

  • Is non-alcohol, non-bleach, and free of toxic ingredients

  • Meets CDC guidelines for COVID-19 and other viral & bacterial threats (like Norovirus & MRSA)

  • Won’t irritate your skin or degrade leather or stitching

⚠️ Avoid harsh chemicals that can dry out, crack, or weaken your boots — including alcohol-based or bleach-based cleaners.

Drying & Conditioning Your Boots

After disinfecting:
1️⃣ Allow boots to air dry naturally — no forced heat, no direct sunlight. Forced drying can shrink leather and wreck your boots.
2️⃣ Once fully dry, apply a high-quality leather conditioner:

  • Use a silicone-based polish that preserves leather breathability.

  • Skip petroleum-based products — they can reduce your boots’ flame and heat resistance.

Final Pro Tip: Care for Your Boots — They’ll Care for You

Proper cleaning and decon don’t just protect your health — they extend the life of your gear.
Well-maintained boots stay comfortable, protective, and duty-ready shift after shift.

Take care of your boots. They’ll take care of you.