Simple and Effective Steps on How to Clean Running Shoes
Running shoes are an essential investment for athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and anyone who enjoys regular outdoor walks or workouts. But over time, even the best pair can lose its shine, muddy trails, and urban dust can leave your favourite trainers looking worn out and smelling unpleasant. The good news? With the right care, your running shoes can look and feel almost new again.
In this guide, we’ll explore how to clean running shoes effectively, including special tips for how to clean white running shoes.
Gather the Materials Before You Start
Before you begin, gather all the necessary materials. Having everything prepared in advance will make the cleaning process smoother, more efficient, and help prevent interruptions once you get started.
Before you begin, gather these items:
- A soft-bristled brush or an old toothbrush
- Mild laundry detergent or soap
- Warm water
- A sponge or a cloth
- Baking soda (optional, for odour removal)
- Mesh laundry bag (for machine washing, if needed)
- Towels and newspaper (for drying)
The Ultimate Cleaning Process for Running Shoes
This step-by-step guide will help you clean them right, restoring comfort, performance, and style without a trip to the bin.
1. Remove the Laces and Insoles
Start by taking off the laces and insoles. These parts are usually the most exposed to sweat and dirt and can retain odours if not cleaned properly.
Laces
Soak them in a bowl of warm, soapy water, using mild detergent. Let them sit for 15–20 minutes to loosen dirt and sweat. If they are still grimy, gently rub them between your hands or use a soft brush before rinsing and letting them air dry.
Insoles
Use a damp cloth and a small amount of detergent to lightly scrub the surface. Focus on areas with visible stains or odour. Avoid soaking the insoles entirely, as this may compromise their shape, support, and foam integrity. Leave them to air dry in a well-ventilated space.
2. Dry-Brush the Surface
Before introducing any water, remove as much loose dirt as possible. Use a soft-bristled brush or an old toothbrush to dry-brush the shoe’s surface, which includes the upper fabric, tongue, and midsole.
If there’s caked-on mud, gently tap the shoes together outside to loosen the debris before cleaning running shoes. This helps prevent dirt from spreading and creating stains during the cleaning process.
3. Prepare a Cleaning Solution
Fill a bowl or bucket with warm water and add a few drops of mild detergent or dishwashing liquid. Stir until the solution is slightly soapy. Avoid bleach, fabric softeners, or harsh chemicals, especially for coloured or synthetic materials, as these can cause fading or damage to the glue and fabrics.
4. Clean the Uppers and Midsoles
Dip your brush or sponge into the cleaning solution and start gently scrubbing the uppers of the outer fabric or mesh part of the shoe. Use small, circular motions to lift away dirt and stains without damaging the material. Pay special attention to areas around the toe box and laces, which usually collect more grime.
Move on to the midsoles, the cushioning layer between the outsole and upper. This part is prone to visible stains and often needs firmer scrubbing. Make sure you cover the entire surface evenly, including the heel and arch areas.
5. Rinse With Care
Once you’ve scrubbed the shoes thoroughly, it’s important to remove any remaining soap. Soak a clean microfibre cloth or sponge with plain water and wipe down the shoes. Repeat this step as necessary until there’s no visible soap left.
Do not submerge your shoes in water or rinse them under a tap, as soaking can loosen adhesives, warp materials, and compromise the structure of the shoe.
6. Clean the Outsoles
The outsoles (bottom treads of the shoe) endure the most impact and are usually the dirtiest. Use a firmer brush and give this part a thorough scrub, especially if mud or small pebbles are lodged in the grooves. You can use the same cleaning solution here, or a slightly stronger mix if needed.
Since outsoles are typically made of rubber or dense foam, they can handle more vigorous scrubbing than the rest of the shoe.
7. Dry Properly
Drying your shoes correctly is essential for preserving their shape, structure, and performance. Improper drying can lead to warped soles, cracked glue, or shrunk fabric.
Stuff your shoes
Place balled-up newspaper, tissue, or paper towels inside the shoes. This helps absorb moisture from the inside and keeps the shoe from collapsing or losing its shape.
Air dry
Leave the shoes in a cool, shaded, and well-ventilated area. Avoid confined or humid spaces like wardrobes or closed cabinets, as this can delay drying and cause a musty smell.
Do not use a dryer
The heat from a tumble dryer or hairdryer can melt adhesives, deform the sole, or weaken the materials.
Avoid direct sunlight
Prolonged exposure to UV rays can discolour or fade the fabric and dry out any synthetic materials, making them brittle over time.
Drying may take anywhere from 12 to 24 hours, depending on airflow and humidity. Be patient; rushing this step could undo all your careful cleaning work.
Special Care for Clean White Running Shoes
White running shoes look sharp and stylish, but they’re the quickest to show stains. Here are a few tips to help keep your white trainers looking fresh:
- Use baking soda paste: Mix baking soda with a bit of water and gently scrub on tough stains.
- Spot clean quickly: Don’t let stains settle. The sooner you act, the better the result.
- Avoid bleach: While tempting, bleach can yellow white fabrics and weaken materials over time.
Can You Machine-Wash Running Shoes?
Many running shoes can be machine-washed, but it’s not always recommended. If you do choose this method, here’s how to minimise damage:
- Remove laces and insoles
- Place shoes in a mesh laundry bag
- Use a cold cycle with mild detergent
- Let them air dry naturally, never machine dry
If you’re unsure or want to avoid the risk, professional laundry services can be a reliable alternative for cleaning running shoes thoroughly and safely.
Keep Your Running Shoes Clean and Ready to Perform
Knowing how to clean running shoes can save you money, extend your footwear’s life, and keep you feeling fresh on every run. Whether youchoose the DIY route or opt for a shoe cleaning service in Dubai, regular care goes a long way.
For those looking for convenience and professional attention to detail, Laundry AE offers trusted laundry and shoe cleaning services to keep your wardrobe in top shape from soles to seams.
