Running shoes are a piece of gear that get dirty and need to be cleaned regularly. This is especially true if you run outdoors on different surfaces. Running shoes need to be cleaned regularly and with the right technique to ensure they are done correctly. This blog post walks you through the process of how to clean running shoes. We’ll also address if you can put running shoes in a washing machine. Follow our tips for keeping your running shoes in top condition! Let’s learn more about How to clean running shoes.
Table of Contents
Make a Mild Cleaning Solution:
Once you have all the necessary materials for cleaning your running shoes, the next step is to make a mild cleaning solution. This can be done using a few drops of liquid dish soap mixed with warm water or with a paste of baking soda and water or vinegar mixed with two parts water. A shoe tree can also be used to help remove any excess dirt from the inside of your shoes. Before you start cleaning, make sure to remove the laces and set them aside, so they don’t get wet. After you have made your cleaning solution, use an old toothbrush or cloth to work it into any stained areas and scrub away any remaining dirt.
Remove the Laces:
Once you’ve made a mild cleaning solution, the next step is to remove the laces from your running shoes. This will ensure that they don’t get tangled up in the washing machine. To do this, simply use your fingers to loosen them and then lift them out. If you have any trouble, you can use a pair of pliers or tweezers to help. Once removed, place the laces in a mesh bag and run them through the washing machine on a gentle cycle.
Mix Water with an Eco-Friendly Detergent:
Once you have removed the laces, mix about an ounce of eco-friendly laundry detergent with warm water in a bucket or bowl. This will create a mild cleaning solution that won’t damage the fabric or material of your shoes. Gently dip a soft cloth or an old toothbrush into the cleaning solution and scrub away any visible stains. Remember to be gentle and not clean too hard, as this can damage the material of the shoe. Rinse off the solution with warm water and make sure that all soap residue is removed from the surface.
Scrub Away Stains with an Old Toothbrush:
Once you have mixed the water and eco-friendly detergent, use an old toothbrush to apply the mixture to scrub away stains and dirt from your running shoes. Make sure you rinse the toothbrush in between strokes to help remove any dirt that may be stuck between the bristles. This will help ensure that you can effectively clean your running shoes and make them look new again. For any stubborn stains, pre-treat them with a suede rubber or a pencil eraser before using your toothbrush. When you have finished scrubbing away all the stains, rinse off the shoes with warm water.
Rinse with Warm Water:
Once you have scrubbed away all the stains with the toothbrush and eco-friendly detergent solution, it is essential to rinse the shoes with warm water. This will help remove any residue from the detergent and also help prevent any bacteria build-up. It is best to use warm, not hot, temperature water when rinsing your shoes as this will be gentler on the fabric and materials used to make them. Use a cloth or soft brush to help loosen any residual dirt or cleaning solution from hard-to-reach areas. Be sure to rinse both the outer and inner of your running shoes for a thorough clean.
Brush to Clean the Midsole and Outsole :
To get your running shoes looking their best, you should use a mild cleaner and cloth or brush to clean the midsole and outsole. Before applying the mild cleaning solution, make sure to let the outsoles dry completely. Once they are dry, please give them a good, hard brushing with a brush with stiff bristles.
Once the dirt and mud have been removed, apply the mild cleaning solution to a soft-bristled brush, toothbrush, or face cloth and scrub the midsole and outsole thoroughly. For any stubborn stains or mud, you can use dish soap to get it off the mesh of the shoe. Finally, allow your shoes to air dry before replacing the laces.
Wash the Outer of the Shoe :
Now that you’ve made a mild cleaning solution, removed the laces, and used an old toothbrush to scrub away any dirt and stains, it’s time to wash the outer of your running shoes. You can use either baby wipes or warm soapy water and a cloth to do this. Begin by wiping the suds off with a wet cloth, and then rinse with warm water.
Make sure to use a mild cleaner and cloth or brush to clean your shoes’ midsole and outsole. This will help ensure that all dirt has been removed, so your shoes are nice and clean!
Get Stubborn Mud Stains off Mesh with Dish Soap:
If you have stubborn mud stains on the mesh of your running shoes, the best way to get them off is to use dish soap. Mix a few drops of dish soap into warm water and dip a cloth into the solution. Gently rub the cloth on the mesh and any other stained areas until the dirt is removed. Be sure to rinse off the fabric afterward with clean water and let it air dry.
This method is easy and effective at removing mud stains, but it should only be used on mesh fabric as it can damage other types of material.
Let Shoes Air Dry:
Once all of the parts of your shoes have been cleaned, it’s time to let them air dry. Place the boots a foot or two in front of a fan and let the air circulation help speed up the process. Alternatively, you can stuff your shoes with clean rags, paper towels, or newspaper to help absorb moisture. Blot the fabric with a dry paper towel and allow the shoes to air dry away from direct heat and sunlight. Running shoes may take up to eight hours to dry thoroughly. Finally, ensure your freshly washed shoes are completely dry before wearing them again.
Replace Laces:
Once you have thoroughly cleaned your running shoes, it is time to replace the laces. Depending on the type of laces you have, you may need to purchase new ones. If your laces are in good condition, then you can thread them back through the eyelets and tie them securely. Make sure that the laces are even and tight, but not too tight, as this can be uncomfortable. Once your laces are secure, your running shoes should be ready again!
Can I put my running shoes in the washing machine?
No, putting your running shoes in the washing machine is not recommended. While it may seem easy to clean them, it can damage the shoe material and cause wear and tear over time. To keep your running shoes in excellent condition, it is best to use a mild cleaning solution and follow the abovementioned steps. This will ensure that your shoes are thoroughly cleaned without any damage.
Read More :
01: What to look for in running shoes?
02: What to do with old running shoes?
03: What is a neutral running shoe?
04: What is a drop in running shoes?
05: What is a Stability Running shoe?
06: How long do running shoes last?
Conclusion
In conclusion, cleaning running shoes is not as difficult. You can keep your running shoes in top condition with suitable materials and a little effort. Start by making a mild cleaning solution and use an old toothbrush to remove dirt and stains from the upper.
Then, mix water with an eco-friendly detergent to create a solution for washing the midsole and outsole of your shoe. If you have stubborn mud stains on the mesh of your shoe, use dish soap to remove them. Finally, let your shoe air dry before replacing the laces. With these simple steps, you can ensure that your running shoes stay clean and fresh for longer.
