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How to Clean Sneakers

Expert Advice

How to Clean Sneakers

Apr 24, 2024

How to Clean Sneakers

Shoes, as a general rule, are made to be worn. (Apologies to the sneakerheads with a closet full of never-worn kicks — we see you, and you’re valid.) Of course, wearing your shoes means they’re at risk of getting scuffed, splashed, stepped on, and worse. 

Fortunately, most footwear incidents can be solved with a little smart cleaning. Grab this guide anytime you need quick info on how to clean smelly sneakers, dirty sneakers, or any pair you want to get back to looking their best.

Getting Ready to Clean Your Sneakers - Man Cleaning Air Max Monarchs

Getting Ready to Clean Your Sneakers

Before you start cleaning your shoes, make sure you have everything you need lined up. The exact supplies will depend on what kind of shoes you have, but these are the essentials:


  • Soft brush
  • Cleaning solution
  • Microfiber cloths
  • Bowl of lukewarm water

Find a spot with good airflow and a flat surface to work on. You want a place where you can spread out and not worry about spills. A kitchen counter or a table in the garage works great. Just lay down some newspaper or a towel, and you’re good to go!

Cleaning Different Types of Shoes - Man on Phone with Nike Dunks

Cleaning Different Types of Shoes

Let’s look at some of the most common shoe materials and the most effective ways to clean them.


  • Note: If you have white shoes, they might need a little extra TLC. We have all the tips you need in our guide on how to clean white sneakers at home, including tried-and-true techniques such as how to clean white sneakers with baking soda.

Leather Shoes - Teen in Air Jordan 1 Highs

Leather Shoes

  1. Dry Brushing: Start by gently brushing off any loose dirt or grime with a soft brush. This gets your shoes ready for a deeper clean.
  2. Leather Cleaner: Next, grab a soft cloth and dab some quality leather shoe cleaner on it. Rub it into your shoes in a gentle circular motion, then let it sit for a few minutes to break down any stubborn dirt and oils. Finally, wipe off any residue with another clean, damp cloth.
  3. Condition and Polish: Once your shoes are clean, finish off with an application of leather conditioner to keep the leather soft, supple, and resistant to cracking. Apply leather polish if you’re looking for a stellar shine.

Canvas Shoes - Woman in Converse

Canvas Shoes

  1. Pre-Treat Stains: Before washing, apply a fabric stain remover directly to any stained areas. Let it sit for a few minutes to penetrate the stain thoroughly.
  2. Washing: Check the care label first—if machine washing is safe, remove the laces and insoles, then toss them in by themselves with a gentle detergent on a delicate cycle. For hand washing, use warm water and a soft brush to gently scrub the canvas. If they’re really filthy, you can soak them in a solution of warm water, dish soap, and baking soda to loosen up the grime.
  3. Drying: Never put canvas shoes in the dryer, as it can warp their shape. Instead, stuff them with newspaper or a towel to help them maintain their shape and let them air dry away from direct heat or sunlight. This method helps the shoes dry evenly and keep a nice crisp form.

Suede Shoes - Puma Suede Shoes

Suede Shoes

  1. Suede Brushing: Start by using a suede brush to gently scrub away any surface dirt. The soft bristles are perfect for lifting dirt without damaging the suede.
  2. Stain Erasing: For tougher spots, use a suede eraser or suede rubber. Rub the eraser gently over the stain to pull it out of the suede. This works great for most minor blemishes and spills.
  3. Suede Cleaner: If you’re working on a really stubborn stain, a specialized suede cleaner is usually your best bet. Apply it directly to the stain, then brush gently with your suede brush. Repeat the process if the stain sticks around, and try household cleaners like white vinegar or dish soap if your suede cleaner isn’t cutting it. Just remember to apply in moderation — the less liquid that hits the suede, the better.

Athletic/Mesh Shoes - Women's Hoka Clifton 9s

Athletic/Mesh Shoes

  1. Remove Insoles and Laces: Start by taking out the insoles and laces so you can wash them separately. This helps ensure the main part of the shoe gets clean and prevents tangling in the washing machine (if you’re using one).
  2. Brush Off Dirt: Use a soft brush to sweep away any loose dirt from your shoes to prevent any grit from getting rubbed in during washing.
  3. Washing: Depending on the shoe's care label, either hand wash with gentle soap in cool water or use a dedicated shoe cleaner. If your shoes are machine-washable, set the machine to a gentle cycle with cold water and toss them in.
  4. Drying: Generally, you don’t want to put athletic shoes in the dryer — instead, pat the shoes with a towel to remove excess moisture, then let them air dry away from direct heat or sunlight. Stuff them with newspaper to maintain shape and absorb moisture. Reinsert the insoles and lace them up once they’re dry.

We’ve got tons more resources for keeping your favorite shoes looking awesome. Check out Hibbett’s guide to washing shoelaces, or see our brand-specific resources like how to wash Hey Dudes shoes. And don’t forget — we have a full range of shoe care accessories available, including starter kits with everything you need to restore and protect your favorite kicks.

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