Do you want to keep your outfit on point?
Any good fashionista knows how to keep their fits in check. Good fashion doesn’t stop at knowing which pieces to wear and what colors to coordinate. It also means caring for each clothing item, from head to toe.
Some claim that shoes are the most important part of any outfit.
Sneakers are currently the most popular and versatile pieces of fashion. They’re comfortable and easy to pair with almost any outfit. However, your favorite shoes are prone to wear and tear from the weather and constant use.
Cleaning sneakers should be as much a priority as laundering your best clothes. This article covers some great tips for cleaning sneakers to make them look brand new. Read on to learn the best way on how to clean your sneakers.
1. Use a Dry Brush First
A dry brush should be part of any sneakerhead’s arsenal when it comes to cleaning sneakers. If you’re an avid runner, chances are your shoes are full of mud and dirt. Even if you only wear sneakers for a casual outfit, they’re the first to pick up dirt, stains, and scuffs.
Start by holding both shoes and bang their soles against each other. This allows you to remove loose dirt hanging around the soles. Then, use a dry brush to get rid of any remaining dust or earth.
This gives you a cleaner and easier start to work with before you begin washing your shoes. Allowing loose dirt to hang onto your shoes can muddy up the water and make the cleaning process harder. Doing this also allows you to prevent any dirt buildup while you deep clean your shoes.
If you have stubborn dirt or mud stuck on the soles, rinse it off with a hose. You can also do this with a wet towel. If you don’t have a dry brush, you may opt for an old toothbrush instead.
2. Give Special Care to Different Sneaker Parts
Different sneaker parts may require special attention due to varied materials and exposure. As a start, take out your laces and throw them into your washing machine with your regular laundry load. You may also opt to handwash instead if you want to give your laces some special treatment.
If you think your laces are beyond repair, you can buy new ones instead. The outsole, otherwise known as the bottom of your sneakers, will be the dirtiest part of the shoe. This part comes into most direct contact with the outside and may need additional attention if your sneakers squeak.
It can be a combination of elements like sand, dirt, mud, and cement. As a general rule of thumb, take a dry brush to your soles. Use a mixture of detergent and warm water, then finish off by wiping with a clean cloth.
The midsole is often bright white, so any dirt or grime will be immediately visible. Even the slightest bit of dirt can make your sneakers look old and worn. A magic eraser or scrubbing with baking soda is a great way to brighten the color.
Cleaning the insole is as important if you don’t want smelly feet. If possible, remove the insole and wash it with a mixture of detergent and water. You may also throw in some vinegar for some extra punch to the odor.
Allow the insole to dry completely before putting it back in your sneakers.
3. Take Note of the Material
One of the many benefits of wearing sneakers is that they’re versatile. There are hundreds of pairs that go with any outfit, from canvas and leather to suede. Of all sneaker types, canvas sneakers are the easiest to clean.
Canvas Sneakers
Most people can throw their canvas shoes into the wash inside a pillowcase for extra safety. However, if you want to make the most of it, it’s always best to clean by hand.
Scrub your shoes with an old toothbrush dipped in a mixture of water and detergent. Once you lift the stains, allow your shoes to dry for a few hours before wearing them again.
Suede Sneakers
Suede sneakers are the hardest fabric to work with, and it can be a challenge to keep them shiny and new. Suede is most vulnerable to debris from the outside.
If you have a favorite pair of suede sneakers, consider getting a suede brush. These specialized brushes will help in alleviating any muck from your shoes. Do not use too much hard pressure as not to aggravate the fibers.
You may also get a suede eraser if you’re dealing with a tougher stain. If you’re looking for a DIY home solution, use a small amount of vinegar. Dab the target area with a clean cloth and rinse with a damp towel before drying.
Leather Sneakers
A fresh new pair of cheap Jordans may spice up your wardrobe, but note that leather stains easily. Despite the edgy look, leather is also sensitive to any kind of abrasion. To clean leather sneakers, mix one part of distilled water with three parts of dish soap.
We recommend using Ivory dish soap for cleaning leather sneakers. Use a white cloth to rub your shoes until you lift the stain. A leather conditioner may help to even out the tone.
4. Utilize the Proper Drying Method
Throwing your sneakers into the dryer may not be the best way to dry your shoes. Doing so can shrink your shoes or even damage them due to the high heat. If you’re in a hurry, try drying your shoes with newspaper.
Take out the insoles and loosen up the laces. Stuff the shoes with newspaper and replace them as needed. This may take up to 12 hours, depending on the moisture levels.
5. Take Them to Professional Cleaners
If all else fails or you lack the time, take your shoes to professional cleaners. Look into cleaners in your area and see if they will take in your shoes. Most cleaners follow the same cleaning tips listed above.
However, they also have access to stain removers and other products to bring the shine back to your shoes. You can rest assured that your favorite pair of kicks is in good hands.
Our Top Tips for Cleaning Sneakers
Now you know how to clean your shoes to make them look brand new. Cleaning sneakers may not always be a priority, but it doesn’t have to be so hard. With these tips for cleaning shoes, you should have no problem enjoying your fresh pair.
Interested in learning about the trendiest shoes today? Check out our other articles to discover which brands to look out for!