Starting the new year well isn’t just about new gear from Christmas; it’s about resolutions too, right? So how about starting with giving the kit you’ve already got a bit of TLC?
Workwear always works hard, but the pace really steps up in the winter, especially if you’re spending most of it outdoors. Boots freeze solid in the van, jackets take what feels like weeks to dry after constant downpours, and even the best kit starts to show the strain by January.
Knowing how to care for the big hitters- your work boots, waterproofs and insulated workwear through winter helps them last longer, keep performing, and saves you money in the long run (although we know that even the best kit has its time.)
Sound like a good start? Then this guide’s for you. We’ll break down the simple, practical care tips to keep your gear going, so your gear (and your pockets) can thank you later!
Start with the Basics
Not all workwear is made the same, and that means it shouldn’t all be treated the same, either.
Leather boots need different care than synthetic or composite safety boots, waterproof jackets with membranes are different to softshells, and fleece-lined layers don’t want the same wash routine as insulated puffas. If you’re not sure on the basics, you could be unknowingly shortening the life of a good kit.
That’s where knowing your fabrics, using the right products, and learning helpful tips and tricks really matter. Brands like Nikwax make cleaners and treatments designed for specific materials, from leather to technical waterproofing and insulated layers, so it’s worth paying attention to what’s best for your workwear wardrobe.
We know that washing, fabrics, and cleaning don’t quite sound as exciting as brand-new work trousers, but stick with us, and we’ll walk through how to look after the key parts of a winter workwear wardrobe quickly, easily, and with as little effort as possible!
How to Clean Work Boots Without Ruining Them
- We said quick and easy, right? So, first things first: get the muck off. Let your boots dry naturally (not on a radiator — more on that in a second), and use a good shoe or boot brush to put those hands to work scrubbing off any excess mud, dirt or debris that’s lingering on the soles and up the sides.
- If your boots are leather, you can use a leather cleaner to scrub them up nicely with a damp cloth, or a Footwear Cleaning Gel does the job for waterproof footwear.
- Once clean, leather boots need feeding. You can give them the full service with a conditioner or wax to stop them drying out and cracking. We recommend Blundstone Renovating Cream or Nikwax Leather Conditioner- both solid options for good-looking leather. Synthetic boots don’t need conditioning, but they do benefit from regular cleaning and reproofing to keep water out.
- When it comes to drying, patience pays off. Dry naturally, or use a boot dryer, and keep them away from direct heat (as radiators and heaters can shrink leather and wreck adhesives).
- Finally, reproof when water stops beading on the surface, and your boots will stay comfortable, waterproof, and ready for the next cold start.
It may sound like a lot, but perfect the routine and you’ll notice your boots still looking just as fresh as that pair you bought as a backup!
Keeping Your Waterproofs Waterproof
If your jacket’s started letting rain in, it’s not always because it’s worn out; a lot of the time it just needs a good clean. Dirt, sweat and oil build up from hard work and block the fabric, stopping waterproof membranes from doing their job.
The fix is simple: wash waterproofs properly, using a technical wash like Nikwax Tech Wash, not regular detergent, which can strip coatings and clog the membrane.
Once clean, a good reproofer restores that all-important water resistance. Material-specific reproofers are ideal for targeting fabrics like wax cotton and suede, and wash-in proofers are quicker for full coverage. We’re going to state the obvious here, but always follow the label and dry gently, as high heat can damage seams and tape.
It’s also worth noting that technical jackets from brands like Ridgeline, Helly Hansen and Fort use technical fabrics. The main one is GORE-TEX®, which often needs little to no reproofing if cared for properly (what a bonus.) Check the care instructions, look after the fabric, and it’ll look after you.
Washing Insulated Layers the Right Way
An insulated kit does a lot of the unspoken work in winter, so it’s worth treating it right. Puffa jackets, lined hoodies and fleece-backed layers all need a bit more care and attention than a standard work tee.
To make it easy, we say: stick to gentle wash cycles, use low temperatures, and always choose the right detergent, something like Nikwax Basefresh that cleans and conditions without damaging fibres or flattening insulation.
And the biggest mistakes? Over-drying and using non-technical fabric softener. High heat can cause insulation to clump and lose warmth, while softeners coat the fabric and stop it from breathing. When drying, air-dry where possible, or use a low-heat setting if the label allows.
Drying and Storing Workwear in Winter
If we know anything about a British winter, drying workwear properly is half the battle. Whenever possible, air-dry kit in a well-ventilated space and avoid the temptation of slinging it straight on a radiator (we know, it’s hard!). Direct heat can shrink fabrics, weaken seams and ruin waterproof coatings, and if tumble drying is allowed, keep it on a low heat setting and check the label first.
Once dry, store workwear in a warm, dry place to avoid damp and mildew, especially boots and waterproofs (if you’re keeping boots in the van or somewhere cooler, a Hogg's of Fife boot bag can really help.) If you can, rotate your kit, as giving jackets and boots a full day to dry out helps them last in the long run.
Conclusion: Look After Your Kit, It’ll Look After You
Looking after your workwear in winter isn’t about making more work for yourself; it’s about taking small steps to keep your kit performing. A bit of regular care helps work boots last longer, keeps waterproofs waterproof, and makes sure insulated layers keep doing their job. If you want your gear to perform through winter and not need replacing come spring, a little maintenance goes a long way.
If you’re looking to stock up on the right workwear care or even have a browse for when your kit really needs replacing, you can check out the full Hollands Workwear range, full of quality kit, and the product-care essentials that keep it at its best.
About the Author
Matthew Holland brings a wealth of expertise to the world of workwear. With an extensive background in warehousing and outdoor work, he possesses an intricate understanding of the high-quality, functional garments needed for the demands of the workplace. Using his hands-on experience and knowledge gained, he continues to contribute valuable insights that resonate with professionals seeking superior workwear across various industries.
