Leather boots are naturally tough and can often withstand the rain, dirt, snow and hot sun. However, your leather boots may look tired and dry after years of wear. To prevent your favorite leather boots from withering away, carefully wipe and then apply conditioner to regain soft and supple leather. With regular cleaning and conditioning like this, both you and your boots will be back in action!

Wipe loose dirt off of your boots before conditioning them. If the dirt is dried or caked on, dampen a towel with lukewarm water and wipe it away. A stiff bristle brush also works for removing stubborn debris. Never scrub your boots, as doing so will only rub dirt deeper into the leather.

Remove the laces from your boots so they don't get stained while conditioning.

Allow the boots to air dry completely before conditioning. Don't use heat to dry your boots; it may cause the leather to dry out too much.

Put a nickel-size amount of lanolin-based leather conditioner onto either a sponge or cloth.

Rub conditioner on each boot with the sponge or cloth. Apply the conditioner to all leather surfaces. If the boots still look dry after one application, rub some more conditioner into the leather. The conditioner will soak into the boot as you apply it. Stop applying the conditioner when the leather's surface feels damp.

Allow the conditioner to soak into the boots overnight. If the boots still feel dry, apply another layer of conditioner and let it soak in again.

Wipe any excess conditioner off the boots with a towel.

Apply a dab of leather polish to the boots, if desired. Use a soft cloth to buff the boots until the leather looks shiny. This is an extra protective step that will help prevent further damage to the leather.