There are some treasured items that can befuddle even the most resourceful person when it comes to cleaning them, but it may be a favorite pair of boots that really tests your knowledge. You may know how to clean suede shoes, but cowboy boots are a different affair. After all, their leather, albeit tough and made to last, is also a natural material that can succumb to wear, tear, dirt, and a variety of other elements, which can make it shabby over time. If you’ve ever wondered about the ideal way to clean your cowboy boots, it turns out it’s much simpler than you might think. Unlike the fancy new line dances popping up all over the Internet, a few steps are all you need to keep your dancing kicks in mint condition. A little leather conditioner, a horse hair brush, and a clean towel or cloth will help you shine up those shoes and keep them around for years to come.

Natural leather cowboy boots are definitely some of the most stylish and durable shoes you can get. While all the elements of your shoe are important to care for, the leather shaft helps to provide both support and comfort, which is why you need to maintain the material. Unlike some shoes that lose shape and support quickly, many cowboy boot brands are made to last — cleaning and caring for them ensures they do. Keep in mind that your leather shoes are different from other pieces with similar materials, so the best cleaning method for your leather furniture may not be ideal for your boots.

The first thing to understand about cleaning your cowboy boots is that you don’t need to do the whole conditioning process very often. The natural leather of your shoes produces its own oils, so using a conditioning oil source too often could be detrimental. In fact, try only to use this method every three to six months, opting for dry brushing whenever your boots just need a little dusting. Avoid putting water on your boots to remove dirt or mud, as this will dry them out. When doing a full clean, start by brushing all over the boots. Next, use your fingers to pull out a quarter or half-dollar-sized amount of leather balm. Rub this into the exterior of your boots, helping it to absorb into the leather. You can go over the boots with a cloth to help remove any stuck on dirt. Make sure to let your leather dry thoroughly before brushing.

Regular maintenance on your boots can be a once over with the horse hair brush, and this kind of stimulation helps your boots’ leather create the oils that keep it in such good condition. It’s important to store your leather shoes in cool, dry areas to avoid excess moisture — which can dry out the material, making it crack, similar to how heat can. While the best way to store your shoes may vary from material to material, boot boxes and shapers help to keep your boots clean and safe from the elements and wrinkling.