Most Folks Do This Wrong: How (and When) to Clean Winter Gear Without Ruining It

You ever pull your winter gear out from last year—boots stiff as cardboard, goggles fogged up just sitting still, and a beanie that smells like it spent the summer in a barn? Yeah. Been there.

I still remember the year I learned my lesson. A snowstorm rolled through early November, and I was thrilled to pull out my “faithfuls”—you know, the usual winter suspects. But one step in, and my boots cracked. Not just scuffed—cracked. Turns out salt and leather don’t make great long-term roommates. That same week, my earmuffs smelled… questionable, and my goggles were so scratched I may as well have gone skiing blindfolded. Lesson learned.

So, if you’re like most people, chances are you’re cleaning your gear less often than you should—and probably not the right way either. No shame, but let’s fix that. Here’s what to clean, when to clean it, and how to keep your gear looking (and working) like it’s fresh out the box.

Why You’ll Love This

• Save money by not replacing stuff every winter

• Stay cozy, dry, and odor-free (thank goodness)

• Avoid annoying skin irritations from built-up grime

• Improve gear performance—hello, clear goggles and soft boots

• Look put together, even if you’re just heading to the mailbox in snow boots

So… Why Bother Cleaning Winter Gear?

Let me put it this way: salt, grime, and moisture are like termites for your winter wear. You might not see the damage right away, but it’s happening. That salty slush from sidewalks can eat away at fabrics and ruin leathers. Sweat, oils, and dirt? They sneak in too, breaking down fibers, holding onto funky smells, and giving mold a place to throw a party.

Clean gear = gear that works. Jackets insulate better, boots stay waterproof, and those soft beanies? They won’t turn into sandpaper. Bonus: no more mystery rashes on your forehead.

Winter Boots: Your Workhorses Deserve More Love

If your boots are doing their job, they’re getting dirty. Salt, mud, wet snow—it’s all rough on them. Wipe ‘em down after every few wears, especially if you’ve been traipsing through salted streets. Use a damp cloth for surface stuff, but every few weeks, treat them to a deeper clean with a leather or fabric cleaner that’s actually made for the job. (Don’t grab the dish soap—trust me.)

For leather boots: condition them once a month. Keeps ’em soft, keeps ’em from cracking.
Removable liners: toss those in the wash every 3–4 weeks if you want to avoid foot funk.

And always—always—let them dry out completely before wearing again. Stuff ’em with newspaper if you’re in a rush.

That Beanie? Yes, It Needs Washing. Often.

Beanies are like sponges for sweat and hair oils—and they rarely get the wash they deserve. Once a week is ideal if you’re wearing them daily. Toss ’em in the washer on a gentle cycle, cold water only. Or hand wash if they’re a little fancier (looking at you, cashmere blend).

Air dry flat. Trust me, a shrunken beanie is just a toddler hat with regrets.

Earmuffs: Clean Ears, Clean Muffs

These cozy little ear-huggers touch your skin directly, and yet we rarely wash them. Give ‘em a gentle clean every two weeks.

• If they’ve got removable covers: into the washer they go (gentle cycle).

• For faux fur or delicate ones: damp cloth + a smidge of mild soap. Spot clean like you’re dabbing at a fancy couch cushion.

Ski Goggles: Clean ‘Em Like You Paid for ‘Em (Because You Did)

These need TLC after every use. Not every week—every. single. time. Use a clean microfiber cloth to gently wipe off moisture, snow, and smudges. No paper towels, no harsh cleaners. Those lenses are picky, and the anti-fog coating will vanish faster than your patience on a powder day.

If they’re extra foggy or smudged, a lens-safe goggle cleaner (like the one from Zeal or Smith Optics) will do the trick.

Viral Gear Cleaning Tricks That Actually Work

• Baking soda in boots overnight: Say goodbye to funk.

• White vinegar + water mix (50/50): Works wonders on salt stains—just test a small spot first.

• Dryer sheets in gloves: Keeps ‘em fresh in storage or overnight.

These little tricks can stretch the life of your gear between deep cleans. But remember—they’re helpers, not replacements for real cleaning.

Clean Gear = Better Performance

It’s not just about looking decent on the slopes (although that helps). Dirty gear can actually mess with your winter fun.

• Dirty goggles = poor visibility

• Stiff boots = clumsy footing

• Smelly layers = no one wants to sit next to you on the ski lift

Clean gear keeps you comfortable, focused, and able to enjoy the snow instead of worrying about the smell coming from your gloves.

What Most People Mess Up

• Waiting too long to clean: Don’t wait for the smell.

• Using the wrong products: Bleach? No. Fabric softener? Also no.

• Skipping the dry step: Damp gear = mildew heaven.

• Improper storage: Shoving everything in a bin? Just… don’t.

If it smells musty in October, you’ve got a cleaning job from last March waiting for you.

Eco-Friendly Cleaners That Actually Work

Want clean gear and a clean conscience? There are great options out there.

• Biokleen Sport Wash: Plant-based, no residue

• Dr. Bronner’s Castile Soap: Works for everything, seriously

• DIY spray: Mix water, a splash of vinegar, and a few drops of tea tree oil for a quick refresh

Look for labels like USDA Organic, EcoLogo, or EWG Verified when shopping.

Should You Clean It Yourself or Leave It to the Pros?

If it’s fancy, expensive, or technical (like down coats or ski suits), a pro cleaner can be worth it. They’ve got the tools and know-how. But for your everyday essentials—beanies, boots, mittens—you’re more than capable at home with the right products and a little patience.

After the Clean: How to Store Your Gear Like a Pro

Storage matters. A lot.

• Dry everything thoroughly

• Hang coats and beanies (no cramming!)

• Use boot trees or stuff with newspaper to keep shape

• Fabric bins for gloves and hats

• Garment bags for expensive outerwear

Treat your gear like it’s coming back next year—because it is.

Stay Cozy, Stay Clean—And Ask Me Anything

Winter’s tough enough without battling stiff boots and smelly beanies. A little regular cleaning goes a long way—and your future self will thank you come next season.

Got a favorite cleaner or weird little hack? Drop it in the comments—I love hearing what works for other folks. And if you’re wondering whether it’s too late to rescue those salt-stained boots, shoot me a message. I’ve probably been there.

Stay warm out there!