There’s nothing quite like slipping into a fresh pair of sneakers. Whether you’re heading to the gym, strolling through the park, or just running errands, your shoes are a huge part of your style and comfort.
But after a few wears, your once-clean sneakers can start to look a little worse. Dirt, grime, and that all-too-familiar odor begin to build up, and suddenly, your favorite pair of sneakers feels more like a chore to wear than the perfect footwear.
So, what can you do to get them back to their fresh, clean state? How to wash sneakers effectively without ruining them? The good news is that cleaning your sneakers is easier than you think!
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps for how to wash sneakers of all kinds, keep them fresh, and make sure your feet stay comfortable and odor-free.
Table of Contents
Why Should You Wash Your Sneakers?
Before diving into the how-to, let’s address a common question: Why should you bother washing your sneakers at all?
Sure, they might not look too dirty at first, but over time, they collect all sorts of bacteria, sweat, and even dust.
Not only can this make your shoes smell unpleasant, but it can also lead to skin irritation and discomfort. Plus, who doesn’t love that feeling of putting on clean, fresh sneakers?
Washing your sneakers can:
- Extend Their Lifespan: Regular cleaning helps maintain the fabric and material of your shoes, which means they’ll last longer.
- Prevent Odors: Sneakers can harbor bacteria that cause odors. A good clean can help keep your feet and shoes smelling fresh.
- Boost Confidence: Fresh shoes are a confidence booster. Whether you’re hitting the gym or hanging out with friends, wearing clean sneakers just feels better.
How to Wash Sneakers? Step-by-Step Guide
1. Assess the Material of Your Sneakers
Before you start washing your sneakers, it’s essential to know what materials they’re made from.
Sneakers come in a variety of materials like canvas, leather, suede, mesh, and synthetic fabrics. Each type requires a different cleaning approach to ensure they’re cleaned effectively and safely.
For example, leather sneakers are more delicate and require special care. They should never be soaked in water, as this can cause the material to crack.
On the other hand, canvas sneakers can handle a bit more water and scrubbing. So, the first step in washing your sneakers is to check the material. You’ll want to follow the appropriate cleaning instructions for that particular type of shoe.
2. Remove the Laces and Insoles
Take off your sneakers’ laces and insoles before you begin washing. Insoles may be cleaned more completely by hand, and laces can be washed separately to prevent tangles.
Removing these items also ensures that they dry properly and don’t retain moisture, which can lead to odor.
Try applying a little amount of baking soda to your insoles and letting them sit overnight if they are really filthy or smell. This helps neutralize odors and absorbs excess moisture.
3. Brush Off Excess Dirt
The next step is to brush off any excess dirt or debris from your sneakers. Use a soft-bristled brush, like an old toothbrush, to gently scrub the surface of your shoes.
Pay attention to the soles, where dirt tends to collect. A little dry brushing goes a long way in removing dust and loose grime before you start the wet cleaning process.
If you have stubborn dirt spots, you can use a damp cloth to wipe them away before washing. Just make sure not to soak the shoes at this stage!
4. Hand-Wash or Machine-Wash
This is the big question—should you hand-wash or machine-wash your sneakers? The answer depends on the type of material your sneakers are made of and how dirty they are.
How to Wash Sneakers by Hand?
For more delicate sneakers, such as leather, suede, or sneakers with intricate designs, hand-washing is your best bet.
Use a gentle detergent and a soft cloth or sponge to scrub your sneakers. For stubborn stains, apply a small amount of laundry detergent or soap directly to the stain, then gently rub it in.
How to Wash Sneakers in a Washing Machine?
If your sneakers are made of durable material like canvas or mesh, you can safely machine-wash them.
To do so, place them inside a pillowcase or laundry bag to protect them from getting banged around too much.
Use a gentle cycle with cold water and mild detergent. Avoid using bleach or harsh chemicals, as these can damage the fabric and cause discoloration.
5. Drying Your Sneakers
Once your sneakers are washed, the drying process is just as important as the cleaning. Never toss your sneakers into the dryer—heat can cause them to shrink or lose their shape.
Instead, air-dry your shoes naturally by stuffing them with paper towels or newspaper to help them retain their shape as they dry.
Place your sneakers in a well-ventilated area, but avoid direct sunlight, as it can cause colors to fade. Depending on the material, it may take several hours or even a day for your shoes to fully dry.
6. Cleaning Sneaker Soles
The soles of your sneakers can often accumulate grime and stains that are difficult to remove with a regular wash.
For a deep clean, you can use a mixture of baking soda and water to scrub the soles. If the soles are rubber, you can also use a specialized rubber cleaner to get them looking as good as new.
7. Dealing With Odors
If your sneakers are still smelling after washing, it’s time to address the odor. There are several simple methods you can use to eliminate the stink:
- Baking Soda: Sprinkle some baking soda into your footwear and let it sit overnight. Baking soda may absorb moisture and eliminate smells.
- Fabric Freshener: A fabric refresher spray can also help keep your shoes smelling fresh.
- Essential Oils: Place a few drops of your favorite essential oil (like lavender or tea tree oil) on a cotton ball and leave it in your sneakers overnight.
Maintaining Freshness Between Washes
To keep your sneakers fresh between washes, there are a few tips you can follow:
- Rotate Shoes: If you wear the same sneakers every day, they’ll get dirty and smelly much faster. Consider rotating between a few pairs to give each one a break.
- Keep Them Dry: Make sure your sneakers are completely dry before wearing them again. Wearing damp shoes can cause bacteria to grow, leading to odors.
- Store Properly: When you’re not wearing your sneakers, store them in a dry, cool place. Avoid leaving them in direct sunlight, which can fade the material.
Final Thoughts
Cleaning doesn’t have to be a complex concern for you. Your shoes should be clean and in excellent condition as long as you know how to do it.
Cleaning will be of enormous help when you have stubborn stains or would simply like to freshen up your shoes a bit before cleaning them.
With the information in this guide, you will, over the next few months, be hopefully wearing great-looking shoes that are cleaned and neat and clean!
So go on! Get ready to clean your shoes, and enjoy fresh feet with every step!
