As runners, our shoes are one of the most important pieces of equipment we have. They take us on our daily runs, through races, and support us on our fitness journeys. However, after a while, our trusty running shoes start to look and smell less than desirable. With all the dirt, sweat, and grime that accumulates on our shoes, it’s no surprise they need regular cleaning. But what is the best way to clean running shoes?
There are various methods for cleaning running shoes, and some may work better for certain types of shoes or materials. In this blog post, we will explore six different ways to clean your running shoes, including pros and cons, and tips for each method. By the end, you’ll have all the knowledge you need to keep your kicks looking fresh and lasting longer.
1. Hand-Washing Your Running Shoes
Hand-washing is the most traditional and gentle way to clean your running shoes. With this method, you can control the amount of water and pressure applied to your shoes, making it ideal for delicate materials or shoes with special features like waterproofing. Here are the steps to hand-washing your running shoes:
Step 1: Remove Laces and Insoles
Before washing your shoes, remove the laces and insoles. This step allows these parts to get a more thorough clean and prevents them from getting damaged during the washing process.
Step 2: Brush Off Dirt and Debris
Using a soft-bristled brush, gently remove any visible dirt or debris from your shoes. Pay extra attention to the soles and crevices where dirt tends to accumulate.
Step 3: Prepare a Cleaning Solution
Fill a bucket or sink with lukewarm water and add a mild detergent. You can also use a specialized shoe cleaner, but make sure it is suitable for the material of your shoes.
Step 4: Wash and Rinse
Dip a soft cloth or brush into the cleaning solution and gently scrub your shoes in circular motions. Avoid using too much pressure as this can damage the material. Once clean, rinse with lukewarm water until all soap residue is gone.
Step 5: Air Dry
After washing and rinsing, stuff your shoes with crumpled paper towels to help them maintain their shape while drying. Place them in a well-ventilated area and let them air dry completely.
Pros:
- Gentle on delicate materials
- Can control water and pressure applied
- Ideal for specialized shoes (waterproof, etc.)
Cons:
- Can be time-consuming
- May not remove tough stains
- Requires more effort compared to other methods
2. Machine Washing Your Running Shoes
If hand-washing seems like too much work, you can also clean your running shoes in the washing machine. This method is convenient and efficient, but it’s not suitable for all types of shoes and should be done with caution. Here’s how to machine wash your running shoes:
Step 1: Remove Laces and Insoles
Just like with hand-washing, start by removing laces and insoles from your shoes.
Step 2: Brush Off Dirt and Debris
Using a soft-bristled brush, remove any visible dirt or debris from your shoes. This step prevents any loose dirt from damaging your shoes or clogging up your washing machine.
Step 3: Prepare Shoes for Washing
Place your shoes into a mesh laundry bag or pillowcase. This will protect your shoes and prevent them from getting damaged in the washing machine.
Step 4: Set Up Washing Machine
Set your washing machine to a gentle cycle with cold water and add a mild detergent. You can also add a few towels to balance the load and prevent your shoes from bouncing around too much.
Step 5: Wash and Air Dry
Once the cycle is complete, remove your shoes from the mesh bag and let them air dry completely. Avoid putting them in the dryer as the heat can damage the material and adhesive of your shoes.
Pros:
- Convenient and time-saving
- Removes tough stains
- Can clean multiple pairs of shoes at once
Cons:
- Not suitable for all materials (leather, waterproof, etc.)
- May cause damage to delicate shoes
- Requires extra care when setting up the washing machine
3. Cleaning with a Magic Eraser
A magic eraser is another effective way to clean your running shoes, especially if they have white rubber soles. This method is simple and requires minimal supplies. Here’s how to use a magic eraser to clean your running shoes:
Step 1: Wet the Magic Eraser
Start by wetting the magic eraser with water. Make sure it is thoroughly damp but not dripping.
Step 2: Gently Scrub Soles and Rubber Parts
Using the magic eraser, gently scrub the rubber parts of your shoes, such as the soles. This will help remove any dirt or scuff marks.
Step 3: Wipe Away Dirt and Rinse
After scrubbing, use a damp cloth to wipe away any dirt or residue. Then, rinse with lukewarm water to remove any remaining soap or debris.
Step 4: Air Dry
Place your shoes in a well-ventilated area and let them air dry completely.
Pros:
- Easy and convenient
- Ideal for cleaning white rubber soles
- Minimal supplies needed
Cons:
- May not work on tougher stains
- Not suitable for all types of shoes
- May require more effort for larger areas
- Magic erasers can be expensive
4. Using a Cleaning Kit
If you prefer a more specialized approach, you can use a cleaning kit specifically designed for running shoes. These kits often come with a brush, cleaner, and deodorizer to help keep your shoes looking and smelling fresh. Here are the steps to using a cleaning kit:
Step 1: Prepare Your Shoes
Remove laces and insoles and give your shoes a quick brush to remove any loose dirt or debris.
Step 2: Apply Cleaner
Using the provided brush, apply the cleaner to your shoes in circular motions. Pay extra attention to any tough stains or areas of heavy dirt buildup.
Step 3: Wipe Away Dirt and Residue
After scrubbing, use a damp cloth to wipe away any dirt or residue. Repeat this step until your shoes are clean.
Step 4: Deodorize and Air Dry
After cleaning, use the provided deodorizer to eliminate any odors from your shoes. Then, let them air dry completely.
Pros:
- Specialized for cleaning running shoes
- Comes with all necessary supplies
- Can remove tough stains and odors
Cons:
- Can be expensive
- May not work on all types of shoes
- Requires more effort compared to other methods
5. Using Household Items
You may not have access to a cleaning kit or magic eraser, but chances are you have some household items that can help clean your running shoes. These methods are budget-friendly and use items you probably already have at home. Here are two common household items you can use to clean your running shoes:
Baking Soda and Vinegar
Baking soda and vinegar are an excellent combination for removing odors and stains from your running shoes.
- Mix equal parts baking soda and water to create a paste.
- Apply the paste to any areas with tough stains and let it sit for 30 minutes.
- Then, using a damp cloth or brush, scrub the paste in circular motions.
- Rinse with lukewarm water and let your shoes air dry.
Toothpaste
Toothpaste is another household item that can help clean your running shoes, especially white soles.
- Apply a small amount of toothpaste to a damp cloth or brush.
- Scrub the toothpaste onto the rubber parts of your shoes.
- Use a damp cloth to wipe away any residue and rinse with water.
- Let your shoes air dry.
Pros:
- Budget-friendly
- Uses common household items
- Can remove tough stains and odors
Cons:
- May not work on all types of shoes
- Requires more effort compared to other methods
6. Preventative Maintenance
The best way to keep your running shoes looking and smelling fresh is to take preventative measures. By taking care of your shoes regularly, you can extend their lifespan and reduce the need for deep cleaning. Here are some tips for preventative maintenance:
- Rotate between multiple pairs of running shoes to give each pair time to air out and reduce odor buildup.
- After each run, remove any loose dirt or debris from your shoes.
- Let your shoes air dry completely after each run before storing them.
- Avoid exposing your shoes to extreme heat or direct sunlight as it can damage the material.
- Use shoe inserts or insoles to absorb sweat and prevent odor buildup.
Pros:
- Reduces the need for deep cleaning
- Extends the lifespan of your shoes
Cons:
- Requires consistent effort
Conclusion
Keeping your running shoes clean not only helps them last longer but also ensures they provide proper support and cushioning for your feet. With these six different methods for cleaning your running shoes, you can choose the one that works best for your shoes and budget. Whether you prefer hand-washing, using household items, or investing in a cleaning kit, regular maintenance will help keep your kicks looking fresh and ready for your next run. So go ahead and give your running shoes some TLC – your feet (and nose) will thank you!
