Ready for Winter? How to Prep Your New Mukluks for Their First Adventure
Ready for Winter? How to Prep Your New Mukluks for Their First Adventure
Congratulations! You've just unboxed a brand-new pair of handcrafted mukluks, cozy moccasins, or plush slippers from Sheepskin and Things. We know the temptation is strong to immediately slide your feet in and run out into the snow, but hold your horses (or your reindeer)!
To ensure your beautiful new footwear lasts for years and stays looking pristine, you need to prep them for their "inaugural wear." Canadian winters can be harsh—salt, slush, and moisture are the enemies of natural suede and leather.
Here is your step-by-step guide to protecting your investment in using the industry-leading Money's Worth and Best shoe care products, available right here in our online shop.
Step 1: The "Pre-Wear" Inspection
Before you apply any products, give your new mukluks a quick look over. Make sure the suede is clean and dry. If you are prepping indoor slippers, you still want to treat them to prevent stains from coffee spills or kitchen splashes!
Step 2: The Magic Shield – Waterproofing
This is the most critical step. Natural hide is porous, meaning it absorbs water. To stop this, you need a high-quality protector spray. We exclusively recommend Money's Worth and Best because it allows the leather to breathe while locking out moisture.
Instructions:
- Take your Money's Worth and Best Pro-Tex Water & Stain Protector.
- Hold the can about 6 to 8 inches away from the boot.
- Spray in a steady, sweeping motion. You want a light, even mist—do not soak the material!
- Pay extra attention to the seams and the toe box, where snow tends to sit.
👉 Get the Product: Shop Money's Worth and Best Protector Here
Step 3: The Waiting Game (Cure Time)
Patience is a virtue! Let the spray dry naturally for at least 30 minutes. Do not use a hair dryer or place them near a heater, as heat can dry out and crack the natural leather.
For the best results on your mukluks and moccasins, we recommend applying a second light coat after the first one dries. This "double-shield" technique is perfect for those heavy snow days.
Step 4: Revive the Nap
Once your boots are 100% dry, you might notice the suede looks a little flat from the spray. This is normal!
Using a Suede & Nubuck Sponge or brush from our Money's Worth and Best collection, gently brush the surface. This lifts the "nap" (the fuzzy texture of the suede) back up, giving it that velvety, brand-new look.
👉 Get the Tool: Shop Suede Brushes and Sponges Here
Step 5: The Inaugural Wear!
Now you are ready. Your feet are protected, your style is on point, and your boots are armored against the elements.
Whether you are rocking slippers for a movie marathon or taking your mukluks for a winter walk, you can step out with confidence knowing you've used the best care products on the market.
Why We Choose Money's Worth and Best
At Sheepskin and Things, we pride ourselves on quality. We wouldn't sell you premium footwear and then recommend sub-par care products. Money's Worth and Best is a staple in shoe care for a reason—they work. Their formulas are designed to extend the life of your footwear without damaging the delicate natural fibers of sheepskin and leather.
Ready to protect your pair?
Head over to our Accessories tab to stock up on all your shoe care needs before the first snowfall hits!
Love your new boots? Snap a photo of your inaugural wear and tag us! #SheepskinAndThings
