How to clean your sneakers

Keeping your sneakers clean isn’t just about aesthetics, it’s about maintaining comfort, performance, and durability. Regular care helps your favorite shoes last longer, feel better, and stay fresher. Whether you’re restoring a pair of classic leather trainers or freshening up fabric running styles, there are simple, affordable cleaning solutions to bring your sneakers back to life. Let’s break down the best ways to clean every type of material, step by step.

Why is it important to clean your sneakers regularly?

Regular sneaker cleaning goes beyond looks. Dust, sweat, and grime can break down materials over time, shortening the lifespan of your shoes. By adopting a consistent shoe care routine, you’ll preserve the color, shape, and breathability of your sneakers. Clean sneakers also prevent odor build-up, bacteria growth, and stubborn stains that become harder to remove the longer they’re left untreated.

Plus, a clean pair of trainers simply feels better. Whether you’re heading to the gym or out in the city, maintaining your sneakers means they’ll look sharp, smell fresh, and perform at their best.

How to Clean Leather Sneakers?

Leather sneakers are durable and timeless, but they require gentle care to keep them soft and smooth. Here’s how to clean them safely:

Remove the laces and wipe off excess dirt using a dry cloth or soft brush.
Mix a few drops of mild cleaning product (like glycerin soap or gentle detergent) with lukewarm water.
Dip a clean cloth into the solution and wipe the surface using circular motions. Avoid soaking the material.
Dry the shoes with a soft towel and let them air dry naturally, never near a heater or in direct sunlight.
Once dry, apply a leather conditioner to prevent cracking and restore shine.

Tip: For quick touch-ups, use specialized shoe care wipes to remove dirt and scuffs when you’re on the go.

How to Clean Suede or Nubuck Sneakers?

Cleaning suede sneakers can be tricky, but with the right products and techniques, you can preserve their texture and color. Follow these steps for best results:

Start by brushing off surface dirt with a suede brush. Use gentle back-and-forth motions to lift dust and revive the nap.
For stains, use a suede eraser or a piece of crepe rubber to gently rub the affected area.
Light water marks can be treated by dampening the entire surface evenly with a small amount of water and blotting with a cloth.
Let the trainers dry naturally, then brush again to restore texture.
Finally, spray with a protective suede cleaning product to prevent future damage and repel liquids.

Pro tip: Avoid soaking suede, excessive water can cause permanent marks or stiffness.

How to Clean Fabric or Mesh Sneakers?

Fabric and mesh sneakers are lightweight and breathable but tend to absorb dirt quickly. Here’s how to clean them without damaging the material:

Remove the laces and insoles.
Mix warm water with a mild detergent or a small spoon of baking soda for a DIY cleaning solution.
Use a soft brush or an old toothbrush to scrub gently, focusing on stubborn stains.
Rinse with a clean damp cloth to remove soap residue.
Let the shoes air dry away from direct sunlight or heat sources.

While some sneakers can handle a gentle cycle, avoid putting your favorite pairs in the washing machine too often, it can weaken glues, warp soles, or fade colors. Always check the brand’s shoe care recommendations first.

Recommended Cleaning Products and DIY Alternatives

Depending on your budget and preference, you can use either professional sneaker cleaning kits or natural household ingredients for effective results. Here are the best options:

Professional Sneaker Cleaning Kits

Explore premium sneaker cleaning products available at NAKED Copenhagen, from Jason Markk to Crep Protect. These kits often include a brush, cleaner, and microfiber cloth to make maintenance easy and efficient. They’re perfect for both everyday touch-ups and deep cleaning.

DIY Cleaning Solutions

If you prefer natural alternatives, try these effective homemade solutions:

White vinegar and baking soda: Mix equal parts to lift dirt and neutralize odors.
Marseille soap: Great for gentle handwashing and removing mild stains.
Toothpaste: A small dab on a cloth can brighten white midsoles and toe boxes.
Lemon juice: Acts as a natural disinfectant and deodorizer.

Whichever method you choose, always test your cleaning solution on a small area before applying it to the whole shoe.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cleaning Sneakers

Even with the best intentions, improper cleaning can cause damage. Avoid these common mistakes to keep your sneakers in top shape:

Fully soaking your shoes, it weakens adhesives and causes discoloration.
Using harsh chemicals or bleach, these can destroy fabric and color.
Drying sneakers in direct sunlight or with a hair dryer, excessive heat can deform the sole.
Skipping the laces and insoles, they collect dirt and odors too.
Using rough brushes on delicate materials like suede or mesh.

Instead, focus on gentle, consistent cleaning and allow your trainers to dry naturally.

How Often Should You Clean Your Sneakers?

The ideal frequency depends on how often you wear them and where. For city use, a light wipe-down every few wears keeps them looking sharp. For active us, running, gym sessions, or outdoor sports, clean them weekly to prevent stains and odor buildup.

Here’s a quick maintenance routine to follow:

After each wear: Brush off dust or dirt and store in a ventilated area.
Every few weeks: Perform a light surface cleaning.
Every few months: Deep clean and apply protective products.
Seasonally: Waterproof leather and suede pairs, and inspect laces for wear.

Proper shoe care helps you extend the life of your collection from your everyday sneakers to your most exclusive pairs.

FAQ

Can I put my sneakers in the washing machine?

Some fabric or mesh shoes can handle a cold, delicate cycle inside a laundry bag. However, handwashing is always safer, especially for leather or suede materials.

How do I remove a grease stain from sneakers?

Sprinkle baking soda or cornstarch on the stain and let it absorb for a few hours before brushing off. For tougher stains, use a mild dish soap solution and dab gently with a cloth.

How can I get rid of persistent odors?

Mix baking soda and a few drops of essential oil, then place it inside your sneakers overnight. You can also wash the laces and insoles separately to remove trapped sweat and bacteria.

Can the soles be cleaned separately?

Yes. Scrub the soles using a firm brush and mild cleaner to remove dirt buildup. A bit of toothpaste or baking soda paste works wonders for whitening rubber midsoles.

What tools should I use for deep cleaning?

A good sneaker cleaning kit should include a soft brush, microfiber cloth, and gentle cleaning solution. You can find complete kits in our shoe care section, designed to keep your sneakers fresh and long-lasting.