How to Clean Every Type of Shoe: Step-by-Step Guide and Expert Tips
Tackle stains and protect all types of footwear with proven care methods.
How to Clean Shoes: The Complete Step-by-Step Guide
Keeping shoes clean is crucial for their longevity, appearance, and hygiene. Whether dealing with leather boots, canvas sneakers, athletic trainers, or delicate suede, each material requires tailored methods for safe and effective cleaning. This comprehensive guide will teach you the best ways to clean every kind of shoe, from supplies checklists to stain removal expertise and essential drying tips, so your footwear stays fresh and ready for every occasion.
Cleaning Supplies Checklist
- Soft- or medium-bristle brush (example: toothbrush, shoe brush, or cleaning brush)
- Mild detergent or liquid dish soap
- Microfiber or cotton cleaning cloth
- Paper towels and/or white towels for drying and stuffing
- Hydrogen peroxide or baking soda for stubborn stains (especially for white sneakers)
- Leather cleaner and conditioner (for genuine leather shoes)
- White vinegar (for some stains and cleaning blends)
- Magic Eraser or melamine sponge (for soles and hard scuff marks)
- Shoe tree or rolled towels (to maintain shape during cleaning)
- Laundry bag (for machine-washable sneakers)
How to Clean Leather Shoes
Leather shoes are prized for their durability and classic appeal. However, they require special care to maintain suppleness and sheen.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Remove laces: Take out shoelaces for easier access to the tongue and eyelets. Wash laces separately (see below for details).
- Brush off surface dirt: Using a soft-bristled brush, gently remove dust and debris across the entire shoe, including seams and the tongue.
- Wipe with soapy water: Mix a small amount of mild dish soap into a cup of warm water. Dip a soft cloth in the solution, wring out excess water, and gently clean the leather uppers. Avoid soaking the leather.
- Target stains carefully: For stubborn stains or ink marks, dampen a cotton swab with rubbing alcohol and gently dab the affected area.
- Clean the soles and trim: Use a damp Magic Eraser or melamine sponge on rubber edges and soles, avoiding the leather itself.
- Damp-wipe and buff: Wipe away soap residue with a clean cloth moistened with plain water, then buff with a dry cloth to restore natural shine.
- Condition and protect: Once dry (out of direct sunlight), apply a leather conditioner or protector to keep shoes supple and prevent cracking.
Expert Tip
Keep leather soft by conditioning after cleaning. Avoid direct sun or heat for drying, as this can cause the leather to fade or warp.
How to Clean Suede and Nubuck Shoes
Suede and nubuck are specialty leathers with a soft, velvety finish, which makes them stylish but susceptible to staining and water damage.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Remove dry dirt and surface dust: Use a suede brush or a soft-bristled brush to gently lift away surface soil. Brush in one direction to restore the nap.
- Tackle stains: For fresh stains, blot (don’t rub) with a clean dry cloth. For stubborn marks, use a suede eraser or white pencil eraser to gently rub the spot.
- Revive nap: After cleaning, brush with a suede brush again to raise the fibers. For scuffed areas, hold the shoe briefly over steam from a kettle (avoid soaking!) and re-brush.
- Protect after cleaning: Spray suede protector to help repel future stains and water damage.
Expert Tip
Avoid using water on suede and nubuck, as this can leave permanent marks. For oil stains, sprinkle cornstarch or talcum powder overnight, then brush off.
How to Clean White Canvas Shoes
Canvas shoes, especially white sneakers, can pick up grime quickly. Machine washing is tempting but often too harsh, so hand washing is preferred to prevent weakening glues and warping the fabric.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Remove laces: Take out shoelaces and set aside to clean separately.
- Dry brush off dirt: Use a soft-bristled brush or dry cloth to eliminate loose dust or soil from the uppers, tongue, and rubber edge.
- Wash with gentle soap: Create a solution of mild dish soap and warm water. Dip a brush or cloth in the mixture and gently scrub both shoes, focusing on stained areas.
- Target tough stains: For stubborn stains, dip your brush in hydrogen peroxide or make a paste with 3 tablespoons of baking soda and 2 tablespoons of water. Scrub stained spots in circular motions.
- Rinse thoroughly: Hold each shoe under a gentle stream of cool water to rinse away soap and any residue.
- Clean soles and edges: Use a Magic Eraser to rub away scuffs and debris from rubber sections.
- Dry and reshape: Stuff shoes with white paper towels to help maintain shape and absorb moisture. Replace towels if they become saturated and let shoes air dry away from direct heat or sunlight.
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Expert Tip
Skip bleach for cleaning white canvas; it can weaken fibers and leave a yellowish tint. Baking soda and hydrogen peroxide are safer brighteners.
How to Clean Athletic and Running Shoes
Activewear shoes—like trainers, running shoes, and gym sneakers—are typically made from a blend of mesh, rubber, and synthetic fabrics that need gentle but thorough cleaning.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Remove laces and insoles: Machine- or hand-wash these separately. Set them aside to dry.
- Brush off surface dirt: With a dry brush or cloth, clear away loose soil from all surfaces (including the sole treads).
- Create a cleansing solution: Mix a few drops of mild detergent with warm water. Dampen a cloth or soft brush with the mixture and clean the shoes, paying special attention to heavily soiled areas.
- Spot clean stubborn stains: Use a paste of baking soda and water, or diluted white vinegar, for tough stains and discoloration.
- Rinse out soap residue: Dampen a clean cloth with water and wipe down the shoes to remove leftover detergent.
- Air dry, stuffed to retain shape: Stuff shoes with clean towels or paper and let them air dry naturally. Avoid using direct heat or tumble dryers, as this may warp glued soles or shrink sensitive uppers.
Optional: Washing Machine Method
- Use only if shoes are specifically labeled as machine-washable.
- Close them in a mesh laundry bag, wash on a gentle cycle with cold water and mild detergent.
- Never machine-dry; always reshape and air dry.
How to Clean White Soles and Rubber Edges
Scuff marks and grime can quickly make rubber outsoles, midsoles, and toe caps look dingy. The following method applies to most shoes:
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Dry scrub: First, use a brush to sweep away dirt and loose debris.
- Magic Eraser or melamine sponge: Wet the sponge, squeeze out excess water, and gently scrub the rubber areas until marks disappear. Focus on trouble spots but avoid touching fabric or leather sections to prevent dulling.
- Wipe clean: Finish with a dry or slightly damp cloth to remove leftover eraser residue.
How to Clean Shoe Laces
Laces are often neglected but can hold dirt and bacteria. Fresh laces dramatically improve the look of clean shoes.
- Hand-wash: Soak laces in warm, soapy water. Scrub gently, rinse, and lay flat to dry.
- Machine-wash option: Place laces in a mesh laundry bag and wash with a normal load of like colors using gentle detergent. Air dry only.
- Replace laces if they are heavily stained or frayed.
How to Clean and Deodorize Insoles
Clean insoles help prevent odors and extend the freshness of your shoes.
- Remove insoles from shoes, if possible.
- Sprinkle baking soda on the insoles and let sit for a few hours to neutralize smells.
- For washable insoles, clean with a solution of mild detergent and warm water using a soft brush or cloth. Rinse and air dry completely before reinserting.
- For non-washable insoles, wipe lightly with a damp cloth and let air dry thoroughly.
Drying Shoes Safely: What To Do & What To Avoid
- Always air dry: Let cleaned shoes dry naturally at room temperature.
- Stuff with towels or paper: This helps draw out moisture and keeps the shoe’s shape.
- Avoid direct heat: Never use direct sunlight, hairdryers, or heaters for drying shoes, which can cause warping, cracking, or shrinkage.
- Replace stuffing periodically if it becomes damp during the drying process.
Pro Stain Removal Tips for Shoes
| Type of Stain | Material | Recommended Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Mud/Dirt | All | Let dry, brush off then spot treat as needed with soapy water. |
| Ink/Marker | Leather, canvas | Rubbing alcohol on a cotton swab. |
| Oil/Grease | Suede, nubuck | Cornstarch or talc powder to absorb overnight, then brush. |
| Salt stains | Leather, suede | Mix equal parts white vinegar and water, dab on with cloth. |
| Grass | Canvas, mesh | Hydrogen peroxide or mild detergent; scrub gently. |
| Scuffs | Rubber soles/caps | Magic Eraser or melamine sponge. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I put shoes in the washing machine?
Some athletic shoes and canvas sneakers are machine-washable but always check the manufacturer’s tag first. Place shoes in a mesh laundry bag, use a gentle cycle with cold water, and air dry. Avoid washing delicate materials like leather or suede in the machine.
How do I clean shoes without ruining them?
Always identify your shoe’s material before cleaning. Use gentle, material-appropriate cleaners, avoid harsh chemicals, and refrain from exposing shoes to excessive water or heat. Spot testing in an inconspicuous area is always advised.
What household products can I use to clean my shoes?
Common options include mild dish soap, baking soda, white vinegar, hydrogen peroxide, and a Magic Eraser. Never use bleach (especially on white canvas), as it may lead to yellowing or fiber damage.
How do I keep my white shoes looking bright?
Hand wash regularly using baking soda or hydrogen peroxide for stains. Avoid bleach and always air dry. Stuff with paper towels while drying to avoid creases and to preserve the shape.
Can I dry my shoes in the dryer?
Do not use a dryer to dry shoes, as the high heat can damage glue, warp the structure, or shrink upper materials. Air drying is safer and helps retain the shoe’s structure.
Final Tips for Extending the Life of Your Shoes
- Brush or wipe off dirt after every wear to prevent buildup.
- Use shoe trees to maintain shape, especially for leather shoes.
- Rotate shoes between wears to give them time to air out and recover.
- Apply protective sprays to suede and fabric shoes to help repel water and stains.
- Store shoes in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight.
References
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