Step-by-Step Guide: How to Clean Running Shoes | Expert Tips
Keeping your running shoes clean is not only important for their longevity but also for your overall running performance. Over time, dirt, mud, and sweat can accumulate on your shoes, affecting their breathability and grip. Additionally, regular cleaning can help prevent bad odor and bacteria growth. If you’re wondering how to clean your running shoes effectively, we’ve got you covered! In this step-by-step guide, we’ll walk you through the process, providing expert tips along the way.
Firstly, it’s important to know that not all running shoes are made the same. Different materials and constructions require different cleaning methods. Before you start cleaning, check the care instructions provided by the manufacturer. This will ensure that you clean your shoes in a way that won’t damage or deteriorate them.
Start by removing the shoelaces and insoles from your shoes. This will allow you to clean them more effectively and ensure that no dirt or grime is left behind. You can hand wash the shoelaces with mild soap and warm water, or, if they’re particularly dirty, consider replacing them with a new pair.
Next, remove any loose dirt or debris from the shoe’s outer surfaces. Use a soft brush or a damp cloth to gently scrub away dirt and mud. Avoid using harsh abrasives or brushes with stiff bristles, as they can damage the shoe’s materials. Once the outer surfaces are clean, focus on the shoe’s soles. Use an old toothbrush or a brush with stiff bristles to remove any embedded dirt or rocks from the tread pattern.
With the outer surfaces and soles cleaned, it’s time to tackle the inside of the shoes. Mix a small amount of mild detergent with warm water and use a soft cloth or sponge to clean the interior. Pay special attention to areas where sweat tends to accumulate, such as the heel and toe area. Rinse the cloth or sponge frequently to prevent spreading dirt around. Once you’re satisfied with the cleanliness, wipe the interior with a damp cloth to remove any soap residue.
Finally, let your running shoes air dry naturally. Avoid using direct heat sources like radiators or hair dryers, as high temperatures can affect the adhesive and shape of the shoes. Instead, place them in a well-ventilated area and stuff them with newspaper or paper towels to help absorb moisture and maintain their shape. Depending on the weather conditions, drying may take anywhere from a few hours to a day or longer.
Follow these steps regularly to keep your running shoes in top condition. By keeping them clean and well-maintained, you’ll not only extend their lifespan but also ensure that they perform at their best during your runs. Happy cleaning!
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Clean Running Shoes
Running shoes can quickly become dirty and smelly after a few workouts. Regular cleaning can help extend the life of your running shoes and keep them looking and smelling fresh. Follow this step-by-step guide to clean your running shoes effectively.
Step 1: Remove the Laces and Insoles
Start by removing the laces from your running shoes. This will make it easier to clean both the shoes and the laces themselves. Take out the insoles as well, if possible.
Step 2: Brush off Excess Dirt
Use a soft-bristled brush or an old toothbrush to remove any excess dirt or debris from the surface of your running shoes. Be gentle to avoid damaging the material.
Step 3: Prepare the Cleaning Solution
Next, prepare a cleaning solution by mixing warm water with a small amount of mild detergent or laundry soap. Avoid using harsh chemicals or bleach, as these can damage the shoe material.
Step 4: Clean the Shoes
Using a clean cloth or sponge, dip it into the cleaning solution and gently scrub the outside of your running shoes. Pay extra attention to any stained or heavily soiled areas. Use a toothbrush or a cotton swab to clean hard-to-reach areas.
Step 5: Rinse and Dry
Once you’ve finished cleaning the shoes, rinse them thoroughly with clean water to remove any soap residue. Wipe off excess water with a towel and allow the shoes to air dry in a well-ventilated area. Avoid using direct heat sources, such as a dryer, as they can warp or damage the shoes.
Step 6: Clean the Laces and Insoles
While the shoes are drying, you can clean the laces and insoles separately. Soak the laces in a bowl of warm water and mild detergent. Gently scrub them with your fingers and rinse thoroughly. For the insoles, gently scrub them with a soft cloth or sponge and the same cleaning solution used for the shoes. Rinse well with water and allow them to air dry alongside the shoes.
Step 7: Reassemble and Store
Once all the components are completely dry, reassemble the shoes by putting the insoles back in and lacing them up. If needed, you can also apply a fresh coat of shoe deodorizer or insert dryer sheets to keep them smelling fresh. Store your clean running shoes in a cool, dry place to keep them in the best condition possible.
Following these steps regularly will help keep your running shoes clean and fresh, allowing you to continue enjoying your runs comfortably and confidently.
Expert Tips
Here are some expert tips to help you clean your running shoes effectively:
1. Remove the laces and insoles
Before cleaning your running shoes, it’s important to remove the laces and insoles. This will allow you to clean these parts separately and ensure a thorough cleaning.
2. Brush off loose dirt and debris
Using a soft-bristle brush or an old toothbrush, gently brush off any loose dirt and debris from the surface of your running shoes. This will help to loosen dirt and prepare the shoes for a more thorough cleaning.
3. Create a cleaning solution
Mix a small amount of mild detergent or shoe cleaner with warm water in a bucket or sink. Be sure to check the manufacturer’s recommendations for any specific cleaning instructions for your particular running shoes.
4. Scrub the shoes
Dip the brush or toothbrush into the cleaning solution and gently scrub the shoes in a circular motion. Pay extra attention to any stained or dirty areas. Avoid scrubbing too hard, as this could damage the material of the shoes.
5. Rinse and wipe dry
After scrubbing, rinse the shoes with clean water to remove any remaining soap or cleaning solution. Use a clean cloth or towel to wipe away excess water and allow the shoes to air dry naturally. Avoid exposing them to direct sunlight or heat sources, as this can cause the shoes to warp or lose their shape.
6. Clean the laces and insoles separately
While the shoes are drying, you can clean the laces and insoles. Use the same cleaning solution and gently scrub these parts with a brush or by hand. Rinse thoroughly and allow them to dry completely before reattaching them to the shoes.
7. Store properly
Once your running shoes are clean and dry, it’s important to store them properly to maintain their shape and condition. Place them in a cool, dry location away from direct sunlight or extreme temperatures. You can also stuff them with newspaper or shoe trees to help them retain their shape.
By following these expert tips, you can effectively clean your running shoes and extend their lifespan. Remember to regularly clean and care for your shoes to keep them looking and performing their best.
Remove Excess Dirt and Debris
Before you start cleaning your running shoes, it’s important to remove any excess dirt and debris. This will make the cleaning process easier and more effective.
- Step 1: Tap your shoes together to get rid of loose dirt.
- Step 2: Use a soft-bristled brush or an old toothbrush to gently scrub the outsoles and the sides of your shoes. Pay special attention to the areas with caked-on mud or dirt.
- Step 3: If there are any pebbles or small rocks stuck in the outsoles, use a small tool like a toothpick or a pin to remove them.
- Step 4: For stubborn dirt or stains, you can use a mild soap or detergent mixed with water. Apply the solution to the affected areas and scrub gently with a brush. Rinse off the soap with water afterwards.
By removing excess dirt and debris, your running shoes will be cleaner and ready for the next steps in the cleaning process.
Prepare a Cleaning Solution
Before you start cleaning your running shoes, you’ll need to prepare a cleaning solution. The type of solution you use will depend on the material of your shoes.
For most running shoes made of fabric or mesh, you can create a simple cleaning solution using warm water and mild detergent. Mix a small amount of detergent with warm water in a bowl or basin until it forms a soapy solution.
If your running shoes are made of leather or suede, you’ll need to use a different cleaning solution. For leather shoes, you can use a specialized leather cleaner or a solution of warm water and mild soap. For suede shoes, you’ll need a suede cleaner or a solution of warm water and white vinegar.
Regardless of the material, it’s important to avoid using harsh chemicals, bleach, or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage your running shoes.
Once you have your cleaning solution prepared, you’re ready to move on to the next steps in the cleaning process.
Soak Shoes in the Cleaning Solution
Once you have gathered all the necessary supplies and removed the shoelaces and insoles, it’s time to start the cleaning process. The next step is to soak your running shoes in a cleaning solution.
There are several options for cleaning solutions, depending on the material of your shoes. For most running shoes, a mixture of mild detergent and warm water will work just fine. You can also consider using baking soda or specialized shoe cleaning products.
Fill a basin or sink with enough warm water to submerge your shoes completely. Add the cleaning solution of your choice according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Mix it well to create a soapy solution.
Gently place your running shoes into the cleaning solution, making sure they are completely immersed. Use your hands or a soft-bristled brush to agitate the water, helping to loosen any dirt or stains.
Let your shoes soak in the cleaning solution for about 15-30 minutes. This will give the cleaning solution enough time to penetrate the dirt and grime and help lift them off the shoes.
While your shoes are soaking, you can take this opportunity to clean other parts of your shoes, such as the shoelaces and insoles. Simply add them to the cleaning solution and agitate them gently to remove any dirt or odors.
Once the shoes have soaked for the recommended time, remove them from the cleaning solution and drain any excess water.
Now that your shoes are clean, it’s time to move on to the next step of the cleaning process: drying the shoes.
Use a Soft Brush to Scrub the Shoes
Once you have removed the excess dirt and debris from your running shoes, it’s time to give them a deeper clean. Using a soft brush, gently scrub the surface of the shoes to remove any stubborn stains or dirt that is ingrained in the material.
Make sure to use a brush with soft bristles to avoid damaging the shoes. A shoe brush or a toothbrush can work well for this purpose.
- Start by wetting the brush with lukewarm water.
- Gently scrub the surface of the shoes in small circular motions, focusing on any particularly dirty or stained areas.
- For tough stains, you can add a small amount of mild detergent or shoe cleaner to the brush.
- Continue scrubbing until the shoes are clean and free of dirt.
- Rinse the shoes with clean water to remove any soap residue.
- Gently pat the shoes dry with a clean towel.
Remember to be gentle when scrubbing to avoid damaging the material or causing any discoloration.
Rinse and Air Dry
After scrubbing your running shoes, it’s important to thoroughly rinse them to remove any remaining soap or dirt. This step will help ensure that your shoes are completely clean.
Fill a bucket or basin with clean water and place your shoes in it. Using a brush or your hands, agitate the water to help remove the soap and dirt from your shoes.
Once you are satisfied that your shoes are rinsed thoroughly, remove them from the water and gently squeeze out any excess water. Avoid wringing or twisting the shoes, as this can cause damage.
Next, it’s time to air dry your running shoes. Find a well-ventilated area and place your shoes in a spot where they will receive good airflow.
Avoid placing your shoes in direct sunlight or using a heat source, such as a radiator, as this can cause the materials to warp or crack.
Allow your shoes to air dry completely. Depending on the weather conditions and airflow, this may take anywhere from a few hours to a day. It’s important that your shoes are completely dry before you use them again, as wearing wet shoes can lead to discomfort and even foot issues.
Once your shoes are dry, give them a final inspection to ensure that they are clean and ready to wear. If any stains or dirt spots remain, you can repeat the cleaning process or focus on spot treating those areas.
Remember to regularly clean and care for your running shoes to keep them in good condition and extend their lifespan. Clean shoes not only look better, but also perform better, providing you with the support and comfort you need during your runs.
FAQ
How often should I clean my running shoes?
You should clean your running shoes regularly, ideally after every run or at least once a week.
What is the best way to clean running shoes?
The best way to clean running shoes is by hand, using a soft brush, mild soap, and warm water. Scrub the shoes gently, rinse with water, and let them air dry.
Can I put my running shoes in the washing machine?
It is not recommended to put running shoes in the washing machine as it can damage the shoes and affect their performance. It is best to clean them by hand.
How do I remove stubborn stains from my running shoes?
If you have stubborn stains on your running shoes, you can try using a mixture of mild soap and baking soda. Apply the mixture to the stain, scrub gently with a brush, and rinse with water.
How can I eliminate odors from my running shoes?
To eliminate odors from your running shoes, you can sprinkle baking soda inside the shoes and let it sit overnight. You can also use odor-neutralizing sprays or leave the shoes in direct sunlight for a few hours.
What is the best way to clean running shoes?
The best way to clean running shoes is to start by removing any excess dirt or mud from the shoes. Then, use a soft-bristled brush to gently scrub the shoes with a mixture of warm water and mild detergent. Rinse the shoes thoroughly and allow them to air dry.
Can I put my running shoes in the washing machine?
It is generally not recommended to put running shoes in the washing machine as it can damage the structure and materials of the shoes. It is best to hand wash them using a soft brush and mild detergent.
