How to Clean Sneakers and Keep Them Looking Like New

There's nothing better than that new sneaker feeling. They're crisp, squeaky clean, and ready for action. But it doesn't take long for dirt, grass stains, grease, and scuffs to make an appearance. That's why experts recommend washing your sneakers regularly and paying close attention to the proper care instructions. Some sneakers are best hand washed, while others can stand up to the washing machine. Occasionally, spot treatments may be necessary. 

Ready to get your sneakers feeling like new again? Here are three ways to clean your sneakers at home.

Materials Needed

Depending on the method you choose, you'll need to have a combination of the below materials or cleaners on hand:

• Dry brush or toothbrush
• Laundry detergent
• Brush
• Magic Eraser
• White vinegar
• Baking soda
• Mesh laundry bag

How to Hand Wash Sneakers

Maria Mooney of Truly Free recommends hand washing to preserve the condition of the sneakers. "It gives you complete control compared to a washing machine," she says. This is the best method for more delicate sneakers, such as those that have embellishment, multiple materials, or are made of mesh.

1. Use a dry brush or toothbrush to remove loose dirt from your shoes.
2. Make a mild cleaning mix of warm water and 2 tablespoons of laundry detergent.
3. Remove your shoe laces. Soak these while you scrub the shoes.
4. Use a brush to scrub your shoes, concentrating on areas where there are more stains or build-up. You can even add grease-fighting dish detergent for stubborn soiled areas. Don't forget that the bottom of the soles should be cleaned, too!
5. Air dry your sneakers and laces.

How to Machine Wash Sneakers

Generally, cotton, canvas, nylon, or polyester sneakers can stand up to the vigorous wash and spin cycles of the washing machine, and this could be the most effective way to get your pair of sneakers clean.

However, before you throw your sneakers in, check the care label. There could be specific instructions around the temperature of the water and the type of cycle that's best. "The agitation of the washer and the temperature of the water could damage the fabric, glue, and other components," says Toby Schulz of Maid2Match. Using a washer could also deform the shoe, resulting in improper fit.

If all looks clear, then machine washing your sneakers takes just a few steps. 

1. Brush off any loose dirt or dust with a dry brush or toothbrush. You'll want to knock any excess off before tossing them in the washing machine.
2. Remove your laces.
3. Put both your sneakers and the laces in a mesh laundry bag.
4. Assuming your sneakers aren't covered in mud, try to run them in the same load as dark towels or other heavy duty items. This will help limit the banging around that can happen when sneakers are solo in the washing machine. 
5. Wash the load on cool with your normal detergent. If you wash them on warm or hot, you could shrink the sneakers or deform any plastic on the soles.
6. Air dry your sparkling clean sneakers and laces.

Additionally, Mooney always recommends having vinegar in your laundry room for those tougher to clean jobs. "If you're machine washing your shoes, soak them in distilled white vinegar for three minutes before adding them to your washing machine to leave them feeling soft and fresh," explains Mooney.

How to Spot Clean Sneakers

If you find just one specific stain on your sneaker, then the best plan of action may be to tackle that stain directly before running the sneakers through the wash.

Schulz recommends removing grass and mud stains with an enzyme-based cleaner, then washing with regular detergent and water. For grease stains, he advises sprinkling an absorbent substance, such as baking soda or cornstarch, and letting it do its job for a few hours. Then wash as you normally would.

If your stain is on the rubber sole of your shoe, then you have three options. 

• You can soak a cotton ball or cotton swab in acetone, and use it as an eraser directly on the stain. Rinse and wash.
• You can mix baking soda and white vinegar into a paste, apply it to the sole, let it sit for several minutes, then rinse and wash.
• You can try a Magic Eraser on the stain, then rinse and wash.

How to Remove Odors From Sneakers

While cleaning should remove most odors from sneakers, there are stubborn smells that will stick around on occasion. In this case, you can try sprinkling baking soda and letting it sit overnight. Shake out your sneakers in the morning, and the smell should have dissipated. 

Baking soda also works as a daily deodorizer. "You can place deodorizing pouches or sachets inside the sneaker while it's in storage," Schulz says. "One easy DIY method is placing baking soda and a few drops of essential oil in a fabric sachet or pouch—just change this out regularly!"

How to Maintain Sneaker Quality

In addition to storing your sneakers with deodorizers to keep them fresh, Schulz also recommends setting them in a well-ventilated space between wears to keep them fresh. "Putting them in an enclosed space right away will only retain any musty smells," he says. Once they've aired out for a few hours or overnight, store them in a cool, dark place, like a closet. If you have room to keep them in their original boxes, even better. You can drop a silica packet or two in the box to help keep moisture at bay.

But the best way to maintain sneaker quality is to clean them properly and regularly. Follow all cleaning instructions, and aim to wash them at least every two weeks if they're worn often, or whenever they start to show dirt or stains.