How to Properly Clean Running Shoes

Nothing takes away that fresh shoe feeling like getting some dirt and grime on your new pair of kicks. That is why one of the questions we get the most is, “how should I clean my shoes?” This is especially true if the pair of shoes is lighter in color. The good news is you absolutely can (and probably should) clean your shoes to get them looking fresh again! The only catch is that you need to do it the right way or you’ll risk ruining your shoes in the process. Read on for our suggestions on how to get your shoes back in tip top shape.

1.Remove your laces and insoles.

You can set these aside for now or put your laces in a delicates bag (or pillowcase) and run them through the wash (the laces only, not the insoles). The laces are the only part of the shoe that you should ever put in your washing machine (but don’t put them in your dryer)!

2. Rub your shoe down thoroughly (but gently) with a soft bristle brush.

This will remove all of the loose dirt and grime hanging out on the surface of your shoes so that they will be easier to clean once wet. If your shoe has an especially fragile upper, brush in the direction of the knit. It is important that the brush you use has soft bristles (an old toothbrush works great).

3. Use a Mr. Clean “Magic Eraser” on the midsole to remove scuffs and stains.

This works wonders on midsoles! Bonus: if you have white shoes you can also try out the magic eraser on the actual upper of the shoe.

4. Wet a sponge with warm water and a mild soap or detergent; gently start cleaning the shoe and the insoles.

You can also use a water and vinegar solution (on part vinegar, two parts water) for a more gentle clean or equal parts water and baking soda for a cleaning paste (best with light colors). Remember to not scrub aggressively! Gently dabbing and rubbing in the direction of the knit should be sufficient. Repeat this step as necessary. If you opted to clean your laces by hand, rinse them with soap under warm running water while you rub them between your hands.

5. Wet a microfiber cloth with water and use it to “rinse” off any access soap from the shoe.

The microfiber cloth will also help dry the shoe and pull up any lingering stains. You can get the shoe wetter to rinse it if needed before dabbing dry with the microfiber cloth

6. Stuff your shoes with newspaper or paper towels and place them somewhere inside to dry. Be sure to leave the insoles out of the shoes while everything dries.

The newspaper will help dry out the inside of the shoes as well as help them retain their shape. Placing the shoes inside to dry will protect them from being exposed to excess moisture and humidity (which could lead to mold and stinky smells) as well as out of the bright sun and excess heat which could warp the shoes as they dry.

And voilà! After letting your shoes sit to thoroughly dry (at least 8 hours) they should look sparkly fresh! Re-lace them and you’ll be ready to head out the door.

Okay, but really… Why can’t I just use the washing machine and dryer?

Not only could the shoes damage your machines, the water, heat and detergents will actually damage the foams and adhesives in your shoes. Even if they look alright when they come out of the machine (which they probably won’t), you will dramatically reduce the life and effectiveness of your shoe. Shoes made with EVA foam are especially susceptible. The dryer will also warp your shoes and can even shrink your insoles!