how to wash sneakers

To wash sneakers effectively, you can choose between hand washing and machine washing depending on the shoe material and condition. Here is a comprehensive guide:

How to Wash Sneakers by Hand

1. Remove Laces and Insoles
   Take out the shoelaces and insoles. Wash the laces separately by hand with mild detergent. Clean insoles separately and allow them to dry before reinserting

2. Remove Loose Dirt
   Use a dry brush or an old toothbrush to brush off loose dirt and debris from the outsole, midsole, and uppers

3. Prepare Cleaning Solution
   Mix warm water with a small amount of mild laundry detergent or dish soap. For white or light-colored sneakers, a paste of baking soda and water can help with stains

4. Clean the Sneakers
   • Dip a soft brush or cloth into the cleaning solution and scrub the entire shoe, including the soles and uppers.
   • For tough stains, let the detergent sit on the stain for about 15 minutes before scrubbing

5. Rinse and Dry
   Rinse the sneakers with clean water, avoiding soaking the inside excessively. Air dry them away from direct sunlight and heat. Stuffing the shoes with microfiber towels or paper towels can help maintain their shape and absorb moisture

How to Wash Sneakers in a Washing Machine

1. Preparation
   Remove laces and insoles. Place laces in a mesh laundry bag. Wash insoles by hand or separately

2. Remove Loose Dirt and Pretreat Stains
   Rinse off mud and dirt. Pretreat stains with a dab of detergent and a soft brush, letting it sit for 15 minutes

3. Load the Washer
   Put sneakers in a mesh laundry bag or pillowcase. Add a few towels to balance the load and prevent damage to the machine

4. Choose Settings and Detergent
   Use a gentle or delicate cycle with cold or warm water and a slow spin speed. Use liquid detergent or laundry pods, avoiding powder detergents that may not dissolve well

5. Wash and Dry
   Run the cycle. After washing, air dry sneakers away from direct heat or sunlight. Never use a hot dryer as it can damage glue and materials

Additional Tips

• Avoid washing water-repellent or embellished sneakers in a machine; hand wash instead

• Use enzyme-based detergent for best stain removal and color protection

• To remove odors, sprinkle baking soda inside the shoes or use a disinfectant spray

• Use a melamine sponge (Magic Eraser) to clean scuff marks on soles

This method ensures your sneakers are cleaned thoroughly while preserving their shape and materials.