How to Clean Dirty Sneakers in 5 Easy Steps
Real talk, sneakers are made to be worn which means they're always going to get dirty whether you like it or not but that doesn't mean you need a cabinet full of products to bring your dirty sneakers back to life.
A good sneaker cleaning kit, the right brush and a little patience can do most of the work for you and this is exactly where the Shoe Daddy comes in, giving you different products depending on what your sneakers actually need.
However, before you start getting into your kicks, make sure to always check what your sneakers are made from because leather, suede, canvas, mesh and knit don't all need the same treatment and may require a different type of care.
Also, do check the manufacturer's care instructions before putting any pair in a washing machine.
Now that we have cleared that, let's move on to the five easy steps to get your sneakers looking fresh again.
Step 1: Removing the Laces and Brushing Off Loose Dirt
Remember to always start with your kicks completely dry because we don’t want loose dirt turning into a muddy mess.
First, remove the laces and any removable inserts, and then use a dry shoe cleaning brush which is softer, to knock loose dirt from the upper, midsole and outsole.
A sneaker cleaning kit gives you the basic tools to get started and this where the Shoe Cleaning Kit is designed around the everyday cleaning stage of your sneaker care routine.
Just don't press too hard, especially on delicate materials because your goal is to remove the dirt, and not turn a small stain into a bigger problem damaging your kicks.
Step 2: Cleaning the Upper
Now let's get into dealing with the actual dirt.
Now start by applying a small amount of your kicks cleaning solution to a damp brush or follow the directions for your chosen cleaner. Make sure to work in small sections and gently brush the upper.
Know that for leather sneakers, you need to keep things really gentle and for that a leather shoe cleaner can help with everyday dirt and marks but aggressive scrubbing can really damage the surface. Whereas for canvas, mesh and knit, use a mild cleaning solution and a soft brush.
Always avoid bleaching and harsh chemicals because they can really damage delicate materials and overall your kicks.
It is specifically recommended to use mild cleaning methods for knit and mesh sneakers.
The Shoe Cleaning Kit fits right into your routine and the Cleaning Wipes are useful when you only have a small mark or need a quick clean instead of doing the whole sneaker.
Now that you've cleaned an area, make sure to use a microfiber cloth to blot away the excess moisture and dirt rather than rubbing hard.
For Suede, whenever you're cleaning suede sneakers, you need to slow things down even more and for that you need to use a suede brush for surface dirt and a product made specifically for suede such as The Suede Cleaning Kit. It is made for this type of more delicate care rather than treating it like leather or canvas.
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Step 3: Giving the Soles Some Attention
If the bottom of your sneaker is still filthy then a clean upper doesn't help much making your kicks still dirty.
So now, time to use your firmer shoe cleaning brush and cleaning solution on the midsole and outsole of your kicks. Make sure to spend extra time around the edges, grooves and tread where dirt likes to hide.
If you’re cleaning your white kicks, then this step can make a huge difference because dirty soles can make an otherwise clean pair look worn out and this is for almost every pair.
Also, you really don't need to go crazy with the pressure either and let the brush and cleaner do the work for which they are designed.
Whether you're trying to figure out the best sneaker cleaning kit, best sneaker cleaner kit or even the best shoe cleaning product, remember to not just look for the strongest cleaner you can find but always look for the right product for the material you're actually cleaning.
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Sneaker Cleaning Using Shoe Cleaning Kit
Step 4: Decide If They Actually Need the Washing Machine
This is the point where you need to slow down because not every sneaker belongs in a washing machine.
The American Cleaning Institute says that most shoe manufacturers discourage machine washing because detergents and machine agitation can damage some leathers and adhesives, so, it is advised to check and follow the care instructions inside your sneakers first.
So before searching for the best shoe washing bag, check the care instructions for your particular kicks and if they are approved for machine washing then a shoe washing bag can keep them contained and secure during the cycle.
You may see these products called a shoe bag for washing machine, shoe wash bag, shoe bag for washer, shoe bag wash, shoes washing bag, or bag for washing shoes but the purpose is the same: containing and securing your kicks when machine washing.
The Laundry Washing Bag is designed for the washing stage of your sneaker-care routine giving you a dedicated shoe washing machine bag instead of you just throwing your sneakers loose into the drum.
You may also come across terms like wash bags for shoes, Sneaker Laundry Bag, Sneaker Wash Bags, or mesh bag for washing shoes when you're looking for this type of product but just remember, a washing bag doesn't magically make every sneaker machine washable because if the manufacturer says hand wash only then please stick to hand cleaning.
When it comes to the laces of your kicks or any other removal pieces, a mesh laundry bag for washing shoes can help keep everything together during a suitable wash.
It is also advised to clean and wash your laces and other removal pieces separately.
Step 5: Air Dry and Keep the Shape
Now that you have done all the above steps, the key now is to showing patience by letting your kicks air dry. This is the part that doesn’t require rushing.
Let your kicks air dry at room temperature and vvoid the dryer and direct heat unless the manufacturer specifically says otherwise. Even the American Cleaning Institute recommends natural drying and says not to place sneakers in direct sunlight or use the dryer.
This is where shoe trees can come in handy. because they are designed to keep the shape of your kicks when you are drying them and or when you are storing them.
Shoe trees for sneakers are designed to support or keep the shape of your shoes while they dry or sit in storage and if you're looking for adjustable shoe trees then choose the one that fits without forcing the material or stretching the collar.
You'll also see people searching for a shoe tree for sneakers, shoes tree, Jordan shoe tree, best shoe tree or best shoe trees for sneakers, you should know that they all serve the same purpose and whatever you call them, the important thing is getting a proper fit.
So when you're using the Shoe Washing Bag, remember that the washing stage and the drying stage are two different parts of sneaker care.
Clean them properly, and then give the sneakers enough time to dry completely before wearing them again.
How Often Should You Clean Your Sneakers?
Let’s be honest here, there's actually no perfect schedule for cleaning your kicks because it all depends on how often you wear them and where you wear them.
Nike suggests cleaning shoes about every two weeks or whenever they start looking dirty and we advise the same thing to keep cleaning your kicks consistently rather than ignoring them until they are fully covered in dirt & grime requiring a more deep cleaning.
A quick brush and spot clean now & then is much easier than trying to rescue a neglected pair months later and this precisely where the Shoe Daddy lineup makes sense because you don't necessarily need to deep clean every time. It is as simple as that.
If you got a small mark? Then grab the cleaning wipes.
If you need to clean the whole pair? Then that's where your Core Cleaning Kit comes in.
If you got to clean suede? Then you got the Suede Cleaning Kit.
And if you are running low on your cleaning solution? Then the Refill Cleaning Solution keeps your routine intact without you having to replace everything.
This is exactly what a good sneaker care should be all about: using the right product for the job instead of treating every dirty sneaker exactly the same.
So, if you're searching for the best shoe cleaner, best shoe cleaning product, shoe cleaner kit, or shoe cleaning kit, remember that the best option is always going to depend on what you're cleaning.
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Keep Your Sneaker Cleaning Routine Simple
We know that dirty sneakers aren't a disaster, and you know that too. What do they need? All they need is your attention.
It’s that simple just:
Brush off the loose dirt first.
Clean the upper gently.
Give the soles a proper scrub.
Use the right care for the material.
Only machine wash when the manufacturer's instructions allow it.
Then let the sneakers air dry completely.
Always keep your shoe cleaning products together so that way you’ll be much more likely to clean your sneakers regularly.
The key to keeping your kicks in your rotation longer is to take care of them and these five steps work for most everyday sneakers but the cleaning products and technique can change depending on the material.
Always check the manufacturer's care instructions before cleaning or machine washing your shoes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I wash all sneakers in a washing machine?
No, you cannot, it is always advised to always check the manufacturer's care instructions first.
2. What is the best way to clean dirty sneakers?
Start with a dry brush, then use a cleaner suitable for the material and air dry.
3. Do I need to have a sneaker cleaning kit?
Not necessarily, but if you love your kicks, you need to care for them and a kit keeps your basic cleaning tools together.
4. Can I use a shoe cleaning brush on suede?
No, it is advised for you to use a brush made specifically for suede and avoid aggressive scrubbing.
5. What is a shoe washing bag used for?
It is designed to keep your kicks protected & contained during machine washing.
6. Can I put leather sneakers in a wash bag?
You can only if the manufacturer says they're safe for machine washing.
7. Are shoe trees good for sneakers?
Yes, they are because they can help support the shape while your kicks dry or are stored.
8. How long should sneakers air dry?
Make sure to let them dry completely and usually some shoes can take up to eight hours or more.
9. Can I use the same cleaner on every sneaker?
Not always, check your cleaners details and always choose a product that's suitable for the material.
10. How often should I clean my sneakers?
Always clean them when they start looking dirty because regular cleaning is easier than built-up grime.