Smart shopping can go a long way in ensuring your child's fall and winter shoes are in good shape. Make sure your child has a pair of kid's rain boots for the rainy fall and winter, rather than going out in regular shoes. For example, a pair of girls' ballet flats might be fine for a warm fall day but could be ruined if it rains. Having a pair of rain boots that your child can replace ensures that their everyday shoes will not be damaged by water.

The same concept applies in snowy weather, as shoes like sneakers and leather boots are easily damaged by snow and ice. Even road salt can damage children's shoes. To prevent this type of damage, choose a pair of snow boots designed for snowy and icy conditions. These boots are waterproof so moisture doesn't seep in, and they're insulated to keep feet warm.

To keep your child's boots in top condition, clean them regularly. A good cleaning also prevents stains caused by contaminants such as dirt, mud, grime, and salt. How to clean boots depends on the material from which they are made. For example, rubber boots can be rinsed with water to keep the exterior clean. To clean the inner liner, first, use a disinfectant wipe or a vinegar and water mixture, then gently wipe with a soft cloth. Make sure not to soak the lining and allow the boots to air dry.

As for how often to clean your child's boots, do so whenever they are dirty. If your child doesn't wear boots often or doesn't get them dirty, cleaning them every few months is enough. It all depends on how worn the boots are and the conditions in which they are worn.