How to Care for Western Wear

As with anything else, the better care you take of your western wear clothing, the longer it will be around for you to enjoy it. Different types of clothing require different types of care, and fortunately, western apparel generally isn’t the sort that requires a whole lot of extra TLC until you get into specialty items such as snakeskin boots. This is a clear example of the distinction between the kind of western wear that you might wear for working in or engaging in more casual activities and the type of western apparel that would be worn for more formal events and special occasions. There is such a thing as formal western wear, after all!

So, about the care of western wear: You can divide this into several distinct categories: taking care of leather, taking care of denim and other cotton fabrics, taking care of cowboy boots and taking care of cowboy hats. It’s pretty easy to find instructions (and most people already know) how to care for denim, cotton, and other commonly worn fabrics. When it comes to boots and hats, however, there is a little more to it.

Caring for cowboy boots:

* Regularly remove dirt and dust from the boot with a slightly damp cloth- after every time you wear them and if they have been sitting for a long period of time.
* Using a leather conditioner appropriate to your boot, apply in small clockwise circles until absorbed. (exceptions: snakeskin; any leather with directional grain)
* Follow with a matching polish for boots that have a polish-able finish.
* Water seal and protect your boots as necessary.
* Store in a cool, dark place with plenty of air flow; make sure they are kept away from heat like a furnace vent or radiator which can shrink and dry out leather.
* The best thing you can do is ask your boot retailer when purchasing your cowboy boots exactly what are the best techniques to keep your boots in their best possible condition.

Caring for felt cowboy hats:

* Use a brush to go with the grain of the hat to remove dust and dirt; you can also use a vacuum attachment; available at specialty stores.
* Treat any stains by sprinkling them with cornstarch and let to set for several hours.
* Use a soft slightly damp cloth or soft-bristled brush to gently rub or brush the stain in counterclockwise circles.
* If any stains are still visible, use an art gum eraser or make-up sponge to blot at them – fine grade sandpaper is a good last resort.
* Keep the hat in a cool, dark, dry place- always be sure to protect your leathers from moisture and heat sources.
* Set the hat upside down, on a hanging rack or in a hat carrier/box.

Caring for straw hats:

* Start by brushing any dirt or dust on the hat off with a wisk broom.
* Follow with a slightly damp cloth, followed by a make-up sponge if needed.
* Keep the hat in a cool, dark, dry place.
* Set the hat upside down, on a hanging rack or in a hat carrier/box.

Western wear can be a real investment, since getting quality western apparel, particularly cowboy boots and hats can cost a little more than some of the more inexpensive boots on the market. However, getting cheap boots will result in having to replace them far more often, and normally you will deal with a poor fit and low comfort level. However, if you get a good pair of cowboy boots, and take care of them, they will last you years, making them well worth the cost. The Boot Store is a great place to get your cowboy boots and western apparel and their knowledgeable staff can help answer any questions you may have.