Sneakers are more than just shoes. They are a reflection of your personality, style, fashion sense and taste. They can also be a significant investment, especially if you collect rare or limited-edition pairs. That’s why it’s important to take good care of your sneakers, so they can last longer and look better. But when it comes to sneaker care, how do you clean and maintain your sneakers without damaging them? What are the best products and methods to use? And how do you prevent stains, odors and wrinkles from ruining your kicks?
In this article, we will answer these questions and more, based on the advice of experts and sneaker enthusiasts. We will show you how to wash your sneakers in the machine or by hand, how to spot, treat and detail them, how to air dry and store them, and how to protect them from dirt and water.
Whether you have canvas, leather, suede or synthetic sneakers, these tips on sneaker care will help you keep them fresh and clean. By following these steps, you will not only preserve your sneakers, but also enhance their appearance and performance.
5 expert tips on sneaker care.
Guard from Day One
Protect them right out of the box by investing in a good repellent spray to prevent dirt and water from damaging the surface of your sneakers.
Hand Care Mastery
Clean your sneakers by hand using a damp cloth, a toothbrush or shoe brush and a cleaner made especially for sneakers. Use a mild detergent or dish soap for white and light-colored shoes, and a gentle cleaner for leather and suede shoes.
Lace Refresh
Soak the laces in warm water and mild detergent or dish soap, then rinse and dry them.
Fresh from the Inside
Fight insole odor by sprinkling some baking soda inside the shoes and letting it sit overnight, then vacuuming it out. You can also use white vinegar or an odor eliminator spray.
Wash and blot the uppers with a soft-bristled brush, toothbrush or damp cloth and mild cleaning solution. Brush gently to avoid damaging the material. Then, use a dry microfiber towel or soft cloth to blot and lift as much soapy moisture and dirt from the surface as possible.
Air it out
Air dry your sneakers at room temperature. Always allow shoes to dry completely before wearing them for your next workout or activity. Flip the tongue over the toe box so air can better circulate through the interior of the shoe as it dries.
Stuff them with scrunched up newspapers or a balled-up towel to help retain their shape during drying.
By following these steps, you can keep your sneakers looking and smelling fresh.
References: GotSneakers.com NIKE.com