Keeping your favorite footwear looking its best is crucial for both longevity and style, and a deep clean can truly revive your kicks. Whether you’re dealing with everyday dirt or stubborn scuffs, the right techniques can make all the difference, ensuring your shoes stay fresh and impressive with every step you take. Discover effective methods for cleaning various shoe types at home and explore more from InktasticMerch.
Maintaining the cleanliness and appearance of your shoes not only ensures they last longer but also enhances your overall style. Whether it’s your favorite sneakers or a pair of sleek dress shoes, keeping them fresh can be simple with the right techniques. Here, we’ll delve into effective methods for cleaning various types of shoes from the comfort of your home.
If you’re wondering how to properly wash shoes in a washing machine, rest assured that many fabric sneakers can be safely machine or hand-washed. These include canvases, cotton, and synthetic materials. To best protect your kicks from any potential damage, hand washing is often the recommended method. However, durable sneakers can generally endure a machine wash. Always refer to the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions for specific guidance. A general rule of thumb is to utilize cool or warm water along with a reliable laundry detergent, such as Whites Detergent. It’s also wise to pre-treat any stubborn stains with Stain Solution prior to washing, and be sure to soak laces separately to achieve optimal cleanliness.
On the other hand, shoes featuring leather or suede elements should avoid full submersion. Avoid placing these shoes in the washing machine, as it could potentially harm the textured surfaces. Instead, opt for spot cleaning any excess dirt or blemishes on non-leather areas using a soft brush and a specialized stain remover that targets dirt and grease.
For leather or suede shoes like dress shoes or boots, water is not a suitable cleaning agent. We recommend a protective leather spray to shield your footwear from environmental factors. Suede benefits from regular brushing with a soft-bristled brush to maintain its texture and prevent dust accumulation. For persistent stains, it’s advisable to consult a leather care professional before attempting any home treatments, as moisture can often lead to irreversible damage.
Follow the easy-to-follow steps below to keep your sneakers looking pristine!
Effortless Shoe Cleaning
STEP 1:
Stains Don’t Stand a Chance
Ever wondered how to clean white shoes or your well-loved running sneakers? Before washing, ensure to pre-treat any stains or scuffs. Begin by removing laces and liners (if removable). Apply Stain Solution and gently work it into the stains with a Stain Brush. Avoid letting the solution linger too long on the shoe surface outside of a soak or wash; make sure to either soak or wash after application!
If you’re worried about color transfer—like dark hues bleeding into lighter ones—conduct a test on a hidden area of your shoes using a cloth dipped in hot water. If you see significant dye running, skip submerging the shoes completely in water.
Place the laces inside a Mesh Bag for washing, using Whites Detergent on a warm setting. If your laces are especially grimy, pre-treat them with Stain Solution before laundering.
STEP 2:
It’s Time to Clean
If your kicks are particularly dirty, you can wash white shoes in the washing machine! Start with a dose of Whites Detergent in your machine using a delicate cycle and a cool or warm setting to avoid damaging any rubber components. Don’t forget to remove the laces and place them in a protective mesh bag before tossing the shoes in. Always allow sneakers and canvas shoes to air dry, as high dryer heat can warp soles and potentially damage your appliances.
STEP 3:
Effective Drying Techniques
To help remove moisture, stuff your sneakers with a clean cotton cloth and let them sit overnight. The cloth will absorb excess moisture and hasten drying.
Pro Tip: When possible, dry your shoes outdoors. Sunlight is a natural aid in the drying process. Just ensure you’ve thoroughly rinsed the shoes before letting them bask in the sunlight.
No More Stinky Sneakers
METHOD 1: Quick Refresh
For traditional mesh sport shoes that aren’t heavily soiled, consider the Stain Solution for cleaning hard-to-reach spots and tricky areas with layered fabrics.
Begin by removing all liners, which can be washed separately in warm or cold water based on their material. Mix a few drops of Stain Solution with hot water in a bowl. Employ a soft Stain Brush or toothbrush to work the solution into the shoes.
Rinse thoroughly afterwards, stuff with a clean dry cloth, and let air dry!
METHOD 2: Deep Clean for Serious Grime
For a thorough clean, mix Signature Detergent in a basin or sink filled with cool to warm water. Gently agitate to distribute the soap and submerge your shoes, soaking for up to 30 minutes.
Rinse well by running water through the sneakers until the rinse water runs clear of soap. After rinsing, use a soft cloth to absorb excess moisture while drying.
If you prefer to use a washing machine for athletic shoes, remember to remove the inserts and laces and place them in a mesh bag. Select a delicate cycle with low spin for your washing machine, using Signature Detergent. For shoes with strong odors, consider adding 2-3 tablespoons of plain white vinegar. After washing, allow your sneakers to air dry, and stuff them with a cloth as needed to quicken drying.
Pro Tip: Avoid washing shoes with clothing; always keep them separate for optimal cleaning and to protect other garments!
METHOD 3: Quick Freshening
Just like canvas shoes, you can periodically freshen up sport shoes between deep cleans by using a fabric freshening spray. For stubborn odors, sprinkle baking soda inside and leave overnight before shaking it out.
Pro Tip: When removing baking soda, do it over your kitchen drain. Then, pour ½ to 1 cup of plain white vinegar over to create a quick drain-clearing solution, combating food residue and odors! Rinse with hot water to finish.
Hopefully, this guide has inspired you to give your footwear the deep clean they deserve; discover more cleaning tips and tricks in our comprehensive Blog.
