Effective Ways to Clean Your Running Shoes Without Damaging Them

Running shoes are made to get dirty, but that doesn’t mean you must embrace the grime.

Clean running shoes perform better and look better, and proper cleaning helps extend the lifespan of your favorite pair.

However, many people don’t know how to clean their running shoes properly without damaging them.

That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive guide on how to clean your running shoes safely and effectively.

Why Should You Clean Your Running Shoes?

Extend the lifespan of your shoes.

The more often you wear your shoes, the more dirt, sweat, and bacteria they’ll accumulate. Over time, this can cause the outsoles and midsoles of your shoes to lose their integrity.

It can also make the uppers more prone to tearing and staining. Cleaning your shoes regularly can help them last longer and perform better.

Remove odors and grime build-up.

Dirty running shoes can stink, and that’s not surprising considering the amount of sweat and bacteria that build up in them.

Regular cleaning can help remove odors before they become overpowering. It can also remove stubborn grime build-up in the outsoles and midsoles of your shoes, which can affect their traction and shock absorption.

Improve the overall look of your shoes.

Your shoes are an investment, and you want them to look their best. Cleaning your shoes regularly can restore their appearance and keep them looking new.

What Do You Need to Clean Your Running Shoes?

Laces and insoles

Before cleaning your shoes, you should remove the laces and insoles. You can dry the laces and insoles separately in warm soapy water. This makes it easier to clean the entire shoe and ensures every nook and cranny is reached.

Soft brush

A soft-bristled brush or an old toothbrush is great for cleaning the exterior of your shoes. You should avoid using wire brushes or harsh bristles as they can damage the shoe’s material.

Cleaning solution (detergent, dish soap, or baking soda)

Depending on your shoes’ being dirty, you’ll need a cleaning solution to help remove the grime and stains. Several options include dish soap, laundry detergent, and baking soda. You can also use a specialized shoe-cleaning solution.

How do you clean your running shoes without a washing machine?

Remove the laces and insoles.

Before you begin cleaning, you should remove the laces and insoles of your shoes. This allows you to clean all areas of the shoe thoroughly.

Gently scrub the upper with a soft brush and soapy water

Using a soft brush or toothbrush, gently scrub the upper of your shoes with warm water and soap. Rinse the shoe well with water and let it air dry. Do not put your shoes in the dryer, as the heat can damage the glue holding the sole to the upper.

Use a cleaning solution to remove tougher stains.

If your shoes are particularly dirty or stained, use a cleaning solution made from equal parts baking soda and warm water to scrub the areas gently. Rinse them well with water and allow them to air dry.

Can You Put Running Shoes in the Washing Machine?

Yes, but remove the laces and insoles first.

You can also put your running shoes in the washing machine to save time. However, make sure to remove the laces and insoles first.

Use a gentle cycle and cold water.

You can place your shoes in a mesh bag or pillowcase to ensure they aren’t damaged during the wash. Use a gentle cycle and cold water to avoid harming the integrity of the shoes. Do not use bleach, which can cause your shoes to turn Yellow.

Avoid using bleach or a dryer.

When air-drying your shoes, stuff them with newspaper to absorb the moisture. Let the shoes air-dry entirely before wearing them again. Avoid placing your shoes near a radiator or any heat source, as the heat can damage the shape of your shoes.

How to Air-Dry Your Running Shoes?

Stuff the shoes with newspaper to absorb the moisture

To air-dry your shoes, stuff them with newspaper to absorb the moisture. This can help the shoes maintain their shape as they dry.

Avoid placing your shoes near a radiator or any heat source

Avoid placing your shoes near a radiator or any heat source, as the heat can damage the shape of your shoes.

Let the shoes air-dry entirely before wearing them again

After washing and air-drying, your shoes should be good to go. Make sure to let them air-dry completely before wearing them again.

In conclusion, these are the steps for proper shoe cleaning. Remember that taking care of your shoes is essential so they can care for you. You can help your shoes perform at their best and look great with effort and diligence.

Q: How often should I clean my running shoes?

A: It depends on how frequently you wear them. If you’re wearing them every day, then it’s a good idea to clean them once a week. For less frequent wear, cleaning them every two to three weeks should be sufficient.

Q: Can I scrub my running shoes?

A: Yes, you can scrub your running shoes. Use a soft-bristled brush and be gentle to avoid damaging the shoe material.

Q: How do I wash my pair of running shoes?

A: If your shoes need a quick wash, then you can hand-wash them with soap and water. For a deeper clean, you can machine-wash them. Just make sure to remove your insoles and shoelaces before washing.

Q: Can I wash my running shoes in a washing machine?

A: If your shoes are safe to wash in the washing machine, go ahead and use a delicate cycle with a detergent solution. Just make sure to err on the side of caution and follow the care label instructions.

Q: How should I clean the outsoles of my running shoes?

A: Use a soft brush and a mixture of water, detergent, or dish soap to clean the outsoles. Make sure to remove any dirt or debris before washing them.

Q: Can I dry my running shoes near a heat source?

A: You should not dry your running shoes near a heat source since heat can damage them. Instead, let them air dry in a well-ventilated area.

Q: How do I remove dry mud from my running shoes?

A: Use a soft cloth or paper towels to remove any dry mud on the shoes. If some remain, use a wet sponge to dab at the mud until it comes off.

Q: How do I clean the midsole of my running shoes?

A: Clean the midsole with a soft-bristled brush and a mixture of water, detergent, or dish soap. Use a microfiber towel to absorb moisture and let them air dry.

Q: Will washing my running shoes cause them to discolor?

A: It’s possible that your running shoes may discolor after washing. To avoid this, use a detergent solution instead of bleach and let the shoe air dry instead of using a dryer.

Q: Should I put my running shoes in the dryer after washing?

A: It’s usually best to let your running shoes air dry instead of putting them in the dryer. The heat from the dryer can cause the shoes to come apart and lose their cushion.