How to Clean Shoes & Keep Them Lookin’ Fresh: A Step-By-Step Guide

If you’ve invested in either a pair or a collection of sneakers, it’s important to preserve their longevity by properly cleaning them. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you keep your shoes looking fresh.

To keep your shoes looking fresh out of the box every time you wear them, be diligent about spot treating any stains as soon as you see them. A dry brush (such as a toothbrush) can help shake loose any dirt and soil, and cleaning wipes can help get stains, dirt and debris out immediately. A magic foam sponge can be used on white sneakers to help retain that brilliant white color. NOTE: If your sneakers have suede elements, do not use water to spot treat. Instead, use a specialty suede cleaning kit, or just hit it with a dry brush.

For tougher stains or a deeper clean, take a washcloth dipped in a lukewarm water and mild detergent mixture to agitate the stains. Use a toothbrush to get deeper into creases if needed. And don’t forget the soles of your shoes—a lot of dust and dirt can accumulate there.

After spot treating or deep cleaning, let your sneakers air dry. Then, spray with a coat of weather protectant, or use beeswax or leather conditioner if the sneaker is all-leather. 

To clean your laces, you can throw them in the washing machine in a mesh laundry bag. Although, for stained or really dirty laces, it’s often easier to just purchase a new set of shoelaces. 

To help freshen up your sneakers, take out the insoles and either deep clean them or replace them with a new pair. A shoe freshener can also help keep sneakers smelling fresh by absorbing odorous bacteria. Another tip? Stuffing your shoes with newspaper can help absorb the moisture that breeds odor-causing bacteria. Also, try to rotate the sneakers you wear every few days to give each pair a chance to breathe.

The agitator in the washing machine can ruin the integrity of the stitching of your shoes, so placing a pair of shoes you really like in the washing machine isn’t your best bet. Also, anything with leather or suede accents definitely cannot go in the washing machine. Canvas sneakers can be washed carefully in a washing machine. First, remove the laces and place your sneakers in a mesh laundry bag. Wash on cold and delicate cycles, and pad the machine with a few towels so that your sneakers don’t get tossed around too much. Then, let them air dry. 

If you take good care of your sneakers, they’ll last a long time. Shop Finish Line today for the industry’s best shoe care and maintenance products.