How to clean shoes

You want to keep your favorite sneakers looking nice for as long as possible, but it's inevitable that they will get dirty. To keep their color vibrant and make them look like new, you need to clean them regularly. This can be easily done with a few simple steps and products you have at home or sneaker cleaning products. Additionally, discover how to clean different materials such as suede or leather and how to optimally clean white sneakers and colored sneakers.

How can you clean sneakers?

The best way to clean sneakers and sports shoes is with special shoe care products, such as a suede brush or cleaning spray. In some cases, you can also put them in the washing machine. It's important to choose the right method that matches the material of your sneakers to keep them in top condition. Additionally, there are household items you can use to clean sneakers, such as:

- Soft brush or an old toothbrush

- Green soap for manual stain removal

- Mild dish soap for gentle cleaning

- Laces (if you want to replace the old ones after cleaning)

- Soft cloth or microfiber cloth

- Bowl with lukewarm water

8 steps to clean sneakers

Follow these steps to clean your sneakers:

1. Preparation: Start by removing the laces and any insoles. This makes it easier to clean every corner of the sneakers.

2. Pre-treatment: Use a soft brush to remove loose dirt and dust from the sneakers. For pre-treating stains, you can apply a little green soap to the stain.

3. Cleaning the laces: Wash the laces separately in soapy water with mild dish soap. This can be done manually or in a laundry bag in the washing machine on a gentle cycle.

4. Making a cleaning solution: Mix a small amount of mild dish soap or special shoe care cleaning spray with lukewarm water in a bowl.

5. Cleaning: Dip a soft cloth or brush into the cleaning solution and gently start cleaning the sneakers. Pay extra attention to spots with stubborn stains.

6. Rinsing: Use a clean, damp cloth to remove soap residues and dirt from the sneakers. Make sure all the soap is thoroughly rinsed off.

7. Drying: Let the sneakers dry naturally in a well-ventilated area out of direct sunlight. Never put your sneakers in the dryer, as the heat can damage the material.

8. Reattach laces and insoles: Once the sneakers and laces are completely dry, you can re-lace the sneakers and put the insoles back. Optionally, use a shoe freshener or spray for a fresh scent.

8 tips for cleaning sneakers

Consider the following tips when cleaning sneakers to protect their quality:

1. Use a soft brush or toothbrush to clean delicate materials such as suede or mesh.

2. Always test a small amount of cleaning agent on an inconspicuous part of the sneaker before applying it to the entire surface to ensure it does not cause damage.

3. If using the washing machine, place the sneakers in a laundry bag to prevent damage from friction with other garments.

4. Avoid using harsh chemicals such as bleach, as these can damage the color and material of the sneakers.

5. If the sneakers are still dirty after washing, repeat the cleaning steps if necessary or consider using professional cleaning products.

6. Do not use a heat source such as a hairdryer for drying the sneakers, as this can damage the material.

7. For stubborn stains, try a special stain remover for sneakers, but test it on a small part of the sneaker first to ensure it does not cause damage.

8. Regularly maintain your sneakers by cleaning them after each wear to prevent dirt buildup and make stains easier to remove.

What products can you use to clean sneakers?

You can use sneaker cleaners, but household items often work well too, such as baking soda, vinegar, detergent, and even toothpaste.

Cleaning sneakers with sneaker cleaners

To clean sneakers with sneaker cleaners, such as those from Jason Markk, it's important to follow the instructions on the label for the most effective method. Always start by tapping off excess dirt and gently wiping away excess cleaner with a brush. Let your sneakers dry in a ventilated area.

Cleaning sneakers with baking soda

To clean sneakers with baking soda, start by mixing equal parts of baking soda and water to create a paste. Apply the paste to the dirty parts of your sneakers and let it sit for a while to absorb dirt and odors. Then use a soft brush to gently massage the mixture in and remove any stains. Let the mixture sit for a bit longer before wiping it off with a damp cloth. Let your sneakers dry completely before wearing them again.

Cleaning sneakers with vinegar

Vinegar helps to remove dirt and neutralize odors, making your sneakers fresh and clean again. Mix equal parts water and vinegar in a spray bottle. Spray this mixture on the dirty parts of your sneakers and let it sit for a few minutes. Then use a soft brush to gently scrub away dirt and stains. Wipe the sneakers clean with a damp cloth and let them dry in a ventilated area.

Cleaning sneakers with detergent

Mix a small amount of mild detergent (preferably with enzymes) with water in a bowl. Dip a soft brush or damp cloth in the mixture and gently clean the dirty parts of your sneakers. Focus on stains and dirt and scrub gently to remove them. Wipe the sneakers clean with a damp cloth to remove any leftover soap residue. Let your sneakers dry in a ventilated area, away from direct sunlight.

Cleaning sneakers with toothpaste

To clean sneakers with toothpaste, choose a white toothpaste without colored gel or granules. Apply a small amount of toothpaste to a toothbrush and gently rub it over the dirty parts of your white sneakers, especially on dark spots or stains. Brush gently in circular motions to loosen the dirt. Then wipe away the toothpaste with a damp cloth and let your sneakers dry.

Cleaning different types of sneakers

Different sneaker materials require specific maintenance.

Cleaning suede sneakers

To clean suede sneakers, use a suede brush to gently brush away dirt and stains in one direction. For stubborn stains, use a suede eraser or sponge. Avoid water, as it can cause stains.

Cleaning nubuck sneakers

To clean nubuck sneakers, use a cleaner that is gentle on the material, similar to those for suede, with natural ingredients and no harsh chemicals, to clean the material without damaging the texture or color. Sneaker cleaners suitable for suede can also be used for nubuck.

Cleaning leather sneakers

To clean leather sneakers, first wipe away dust and dirt with a soft brush or damp cloth. Then use a mild cleaning agent, such as water with mild soap, to gently remove stains. Gently rub the leather and wipe off with a damp cloth to remove soap residue. Let the leather dry naturally and treat it with leather conditioner if needed.

Cleaning canvas or textile sneakers

When cleaning canvas sneakers, start by removing loose dirt and dust with a soft brush or damp cloth. For stains, use a mild cleaning agent such as water mixed with a bit of mild soap. Gently dab the stains with a clean cloth dipped in the cleaning solution. Rinse off the soap residue with a damp cloth and let the material air dry.

Cleaning nylon sneakers

To clean nylon sneakers, first wipe away dirt with a soft brush or damp cloth. Use soap or a pH-neutral cleaner. For stains, use water with mild soap. Gently dab on stains, rinse, and let dry.

Cleaning mesh sneakers

When cleaning mesh sneakers, it is important to remove loose dirt, dust, and any stains. This can be done with a soft brush or a damp cloth. For stubborn stains, a mild cleaning agent, such as water mixed with a bit of mild soap, can be used.

Cleaning white sneakers

To clean your white sneakers and keep them bright white, try different methods such as toothpaste for stains, vinegar for odor and stains, baking soda as a cleaning paste, and mild bleach for stubborn stains. Apply the chosen cleaner, brush gently, and rinse with water. Let them dry and enjoy your bright white shoes.

Cleaning colored or dark sneakers

To clean your colored or dark sneakers, you can use a mild soap or special sneaker cleaners suitable for colored materials. These cleaners are often designed to effectively remove dirt and stains without fading or altering the colors. You can also opt for a solution of water mixed with a small amount of vinegar or mild detergent. These alternatives are generally safe and will not discolor your sneakers. Avoid using bleach.

How can you clean the soles of sneakers?

You can clean the soles of sneakers by using a mixture of water and mild soap. Use a soft brush or cloth to gently scrub the soles. For white soles, you can also use a paste of baking soda and water. For colored soles, it is important to use a cleaning agent suitable for the specific color of the sole to avoid discoloration. Ensure you rinse and dry the soles thoroughly to get them completely clean.

How can you clean the laces of sneakers?

Remove the laces from your sneakers and wash them by hand with a mild cleaning agent, such as water mixed with a bit of green soap or detergent. Let them soak and gently rub over any stains. Rinse them thoroughly and let them dry naturally. For colored laces, it is important to wash them separately from white laces and avoid using bleach to prevent discoloration. You can also put laces in the washing machine; just tie them together to prevent them from tangling in the machine.

Can sneakers go in the washing machine?