How to clean sneakers in 4 easy steps
If your favorite shoes are looking worn, you need to know how to clean sneakers. Not only does this keep your sneakers looking fresh, it also prevents dirt and grime from building up.
Similar to learning how to clean white shoesCleaning sneakers is not as difficult as it seems. All you need are a few household products to get the job done. So if you want your sneakers to look as good as new, here’s how to clean sneakers in just four easy steps.
How to clean sneakers by hand
1. Brush off excess dirt
First, Brush off excess dirt or debris on your sneakers with a small brush. Make sure all clumps of mud, grass or dirt are removed before cleaning. It’s best to do this over a trash can or outside to keep your floor clean.
2. Remove laces
If your laces are dirty, remove the laces to wash. you can either hand wash with warm soapy water to remove dirt, or machine wash on a cold gentle cycle. Avoid putting them through the dryer as this can melt the plastic ends. Instead, let them air dry.
However, if they do fray, it’s probably time to replace them with new laces. Simply measure your existing ones to verify correct length before purchasing.
3. Create a soapy cleaning mixture
Then, Mix warm water with 1 to 2 tablespoons of laundry detergent in a large bucket, sink, or tub wide enough to submerge your sneakers. Dip an old toothbrush or small brush in the water and scrub around the grommets to remove dirt or grime. Wipe clean with a damp sponge or cloth. Take out sneakers with removable insoles and scrub them clean with soapy water.
4. Scrub the sneakers with a brush
Next, use yours Brush to scrub your sneakers with the soapy water until all dirt is removed. Apply the soapy mixture to the soles with a clean toothbrush. Scrub the soles of the shoes, making sure to get all the sides and bottoms of the shoes. For stubborn stains or marks, you may need to repeat this process, or add a few more drops of dish soap to the solution. Once everything is clean Rinse the residue off well before letting your sneakers air dry Completely. Lace them up again if needed.
How to clean sneakers in the washing machine
1. Check label and brush off dirt
First, Check the tag on your sneakers to ensure they can be put in the washing machine. It’s usually okay to machine wash canvas and mesh shoes. If yes, Brush off excess dirt and debris in the trash can or outside before putting them in the washing machine.
2. Put sneakers in a mesh laundry bag
Next, Place your sneakers in a mesh laundry bag, to prevent the sneakers from marking the drum. If your shoelaces are particularly dirty, remove them and place them in the same laundry bag. You can easily find shoe washing bags like this Vivifying Shoe Washing Bag ($12). (opens in new tab), Amazon (opens in new tab)) to protect them.
Another tip is Wash sneakers together with towels to prevent the shoes from banging around in the washing machine.
3. Wash on a cool cycle
Next, do a gentle cycle with cold water, Use the same amount of detergent as usual. Avoid using hot water as this can damage the sneaker. Never put them through the dryer, and always Let the sneakers air dry. Putting them in front of a heat source can cause plastics to warp or ruin the shape of your favorite sneakers. Also remove any insoles to dry separately before wearing again.
How to get rid of odors in sneakers?
If you have smelly sneakers, the best way to get rid of odors is to sprinkle some baking soda over the insides and leave overnight. Then simply shake out the excess baking soda before applying the next day. Baking soda has a mild alkaline pH and is a natural deodorant and cleaning agent. If you want to learn more about the benefits of baking soda, keep reading our useful guide what makes baking soda and vinegar so good for cleaning. Just avoid these 7 things you should never clean with baking soda to avoid surface damage.
If you have suede shoes, check this out How to clean suede shoes without ruining themor How to clean golf shoes in four easy steps.