I practically live in my tennis shoes. Whether I’m walking my dog or hitting the gym, my favorite kicks get dirty quickly. Learning how to wash tennis shoes it’s the best way to make them last longer and look fresh.
In this guide, I’ll show you exactly how to clean your shoes without ruining them.
Before you start: Check your shoes
Not all shoes are the same. Before washing your tennis shoes, look at the label inside the tongue or heel. If you find cleaning instructions there, follow them. Otherwise, follow these instructions:
- Safe to wash: Canvas, cotton, nylon and polyester.
- Do not wash: Leather, suede or shoes with sequins and beads. Water can permanently damage these materials.
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The best way to hand wash tennis shoes
Hand washing is the gentlest method. It helps keep the colors bright and the fabric strong.
What will you need?
- A basin or sink of warm water.
- Mild dish soap or liquid laundry detergent.
- A soft brush or an old toothbrush.
- Microfiber towels.
- Baking soda.
Steps for hand washing
- Remove shoelaces and soles. Wash them separately to get them really clean. Use the same methods as below.
- Brush off excess dirt. Use a dry brush to remove any mud or debris first.
- Mix your soap. Add a few drops of soap to your warm water.
- Rub the top. Dip your soft brush into the soapy water. Gently rub the fabric in a circular motion.
- Clean the soles. Use a stiffer brush for the rubber bottoms.
- Rinsing. Wipe the shoes with a sponge or cloth dipped in clean water to remove the soap.
- Kill odors. I like to rinse mine with a mixture of water and two tablespoons of baking soda. You can even add a few drops of tea tree oil for a fresh scent.
How to wash tennis shoes safely in the washing machine
If you don’t have time, you can use a washing machine for simple canvas or mesh sneakers. Keep in mind, however, that the same air-drying process applies, so you’ll need to allow time for this.
What will you need?
- Mesh laundry bags
- Liquid laundry detergent
- Clean towels
Steps for washing in the washing machine
- Prepare the shoes. Remove the laces and soles. Put the laces in a small mesh bag to keep them from getting tangled. Hand wash the soles.
- Use a mesh laundry bag. Place each shoe in its own bag or a pillow case. This protects them from hitting the washing machine drum.
- Add towels. Throw in two or three old towels. This helps balance the load and keeps the machine quiet.
- Select the correct settings. Use a cool cycle and fine setting.
- Choose a liquid detergent. Do not use detergent powder because it can stick inside the shoes.
How to properly dry your shoes
The most important rule is to skip the dryer. High heat can melt the glue and warp the soles of your shoes.
- Fill them up. Stuff the shoes with clean, dry towels or paper towels. This helps them retain their shape and absorb water.
- Air dry. Place them in a cool place with good air flow. Keep them out of direct sunlight to prevent the colors from fading.
- Be patient. It may take up to 24 hours for the shoes to dry completely. You can speed this up by replacing the rags that fill your shoes every few hours so that the dry ones release more moisture.
Pro tricks for stubborn tennis shoe stains
- Scratch marks: Use a wet toothbrush and baking soda to scrub the white rubber parts.
- Mud: Always allow mud to dry before attempting to clean it. Then just remove it.
- Grass stains: Rub them with a little white vinegar or a paste of baking soda.
Washing your shoes doesn’t have to be a chore. With these steps, your favorite pair will be ready to play in no time
