Whether rocking the latest releases or cherishing a classic pair of kicks, keeping your sneakers clean is essential for maintaining their appearance. Stains are inevitable in shoes, but with the proper techniques, you can keep your sneakers looking fresh. Before tackling specific stains, here are some general tips for cleaning sneakers:
- Always remove laces before cleaning.
- Use an old toothbrush to remove loose dirt.
- Always test cleaning solutions on a small area first.
- Clean the entire shoe, not just the stained area, to avoid water marks.
- Stuff shoes with paper towels to maintain shape while drying.
- Air dry at room temperature, away from direct heat or sunlight.
Removing common stains
Mud and dirt
- Let the mud dry completely.
- Brush off as much dried mud as possible with a soft brush.
- Mix warm water with a small amount of mild detergent.
- Gently clean the affected areas gently.
- Wipe with a clean, damp cloth to remove soap residue.
- Air dry.
Grass stains
- Combine white vinegar with water in one part.
- Apply the solution to a brush and gently scrub the stain.
- Mix baking soda and water for tough stains.
- Apply the paste, let it sit for 15 minutes, then brush off.
- Clean the entire shoe with mild soap and water.
- Rinse and air dry.
Oil or grease
- Baby powder on the stain to absorb excess oil.
- Let it sit for a few hours.
- Brush off the powder.
- use a small dish soap on a damp cloth if the stain persists.
- Gently work the soap into the stain.
- Wipe clean with a damp cloth and air dry.
Ink stains
- For canvas, use a cotton swab to dab the stain with rubbing alcohol.
- For leather, use a magic eraser very gently.
- For suede, consult a professional cleaner.
Material-specific cleaning methods
Canvas sneakers
Canvas sneakers are durable and can handle more vigorous cleaning methods.
- Create a paste with baking soda.
- Use a soft brush.
- Wait about 15 minutes.
- Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
- Use a diluted bleach solution (1 to 5 parts water) for tough stains on white canvas shoes. Never use bleach on coloured canvas.
Leather sneakers
Leather requires more gentle care to avoid damage.
- Use a leather cleaner or a mixture of warm water and mild soap.
- Apply with a soft cloth, gently working in circular motions.
- Wipe clean with a damp cloth.
- Apply a leather conditioner once dry to maintain the material’s quality.
Suede sneakers
Suede is particularly delicate and is easily damaged if not cleaned properly.
- Use a suede brush to remove dirt and restore naps.
- use a suede eraser or a white pencil eraser for stains.
- For oil stains, sprinkle with cornstarch and let sit overnight before brushing off.
- For tough stains, consult a professional cleaner.
When to seek professional help?
While many stains are treated at home, some situations call for professional cleaning:
- Valuable or rare sneakers
- Persistent stains that don’t respond to home treatments
- Delicate materials like suede or high-end leather
- If you’re unsure about the best cleaning method for your specific sneakers
Many shoe repair shops and speciality sneaker stores offer professional hypeboost cleaning services that safely treat tough stains without damaging your shoes. With proper care and regular cleaning, your sneakers will look great after wear.