Fashion

How To Clean Snow Off Heels

by Lindsey Rose Black

With its blistering winds, freezing temps, and general sloshiness, winter requires all of us to become a little more wardrobe savvy and know how to take care of our clothing properly when it encounters the elements. Most recently, I had to learn how to clean snow off heels after a long night out. Luckily, it's fairly easy to do!

Last winter in New York, I remember trekking home from a party (thoroughly drunk, mind you), in these adorable stiletto ankle boots. Though they weren't my most practical shoe choice, I thought they were pretty fierce (and my future boyfriend did comment on how cute I looked that night, so doubly worth it). Once I finally got back to my apartment and kicked my heels off, I noticed they were covered in dry snow (which is really just salt, so don't panic). I didn't want to ruin them so I sobered up as best I could and learned what to do!

If you also live in snowy conditions and don't have a clue on how to care for your winter wardrobe, no worries! Beyond heels, it's pretty simple to take care of your tights, wash winter jackets, and safely get snow salt off of any pair of boots. Hang in there, your heels will sparkle again soon.

1. Baby Wipes

Seriously guys, Martha Stewart knows what's up. Since my heels had leather, wiping them down with baby wipes was the best option.

2. Vinegar

According to Free People, another option for cleaning snow off heels with leather is creating a cleaning mixture with a cup of cold water and a tablespoon of white vinegar. Mix the two together and then wipe the solution over your heels until they're clean.

3. Repellant Spray

(Shoe Protection Spray, $9.99, Solemates)

If you're planning ahead, spritz your heels with a snow salt repellant spray like the one from Solemates. Though designed for leather, it's safe to use on pretty much all shoe materials!

4. Soap And Water

(Organic Dish Soap, $3.95, The Honest Company)

According to Jezebel, sometimes giving your heels a light scrub in warm, soapy water is all you need to do! Opt for a gentle dish soap.

5. Olive Oil

Rob Kim/Getty Images Entertainment/Getty Images

If your heels have rubber on them, Jezebel recommends rubbing your heels in olive oil to get the nasty dried salt off. Seems pretty simple to me!

Happy trekking!

Image Credit: Alexey Volkow, Michelle Grimord Eggers/Flickr