How To Clean Your Shoes Properly?

Why Cleaning Your Shoes Properly Matters

We all love wearing fresh, clean shoes, but dirt, stains, and odor can quickly ruin their look and lifespan. Whether it’s your favorite sneakers, elegant leather shoes, or rugged boots, regular cleaning is essential to keep them looking great and lasting longer.

But how to clean your shoes properly without ruining them? Many people make mistakes like using too much water on suede, scrubbing aggressively, or using harsh detergents, which can damage the material. Different shoes require different cleaning techniques, and using the wrong method might shorten the life of your footwear.

In this ultimate guide, we’ll walk you through step-by-step cleaning methods for every shoe type, the best DIY hacks, and pro tips for maintaining your footwear like a pro.

So, if you’ve ever asked, “What’s the best way to clean shoes at home?” – you’re in the right place! Let’s get started. 👟✨

How Often Should You Clean Your Shoes?

Cleaning frequency depends on how often you wear them and the type of material:

🏃 Athletic & Gym Shoes:

✅ Wipe down after every wear to remove sweat and odor. ✅ Deep clean every 2-3 weeks, especially if used regularly. ✅ Sprinkle baking soda inside overnight to absorb moisture and odors.

👞 Leather & Formal Shoes:

✅ Dust off after every wear with a soft cloth. ✅ Condition and polish every 3-4 weeks. ✅ Store in a cool, dry place with shoe trees to maintain shape.

👟 Sneakers & Canvas Shoes:

✅ Spot clean as needed. ✅ Deep clean every month to prevent stains from setting. ✅ Use waterproof sprays to protect from dirt and spills.

🥾 Boots & Suede Shoes:

✅ Brush off dirt after wearing. ✅ Apply waterproofing spray monthly. ✅ Store with silica gel packs to prevent moisture damage.

How to Clean Your Shoes Properly – Step-by-Step Guide

1️⃣ Cleaning Leather Shoes 👞

✅ Materials Needed:

• Soft cloth or brush
• Mild soap or leather cleaner
• Leather conditioner

🛠 Step-by-Step:

1. Remove laces and wipe shoes with a damp cloth.
2. Use mild soap and water for gentle cleaning.
3. Apply leather conditioner to maintain shine and prevent cracking.
4. Polish with a soft brush or microfiber cloth.

2️⃣ Cleaning Suede Shoes 👢

✅ Materials Needed:

• Suede brush
• White vinegar
• Cornstarch (for oil stains)

🛠 Step-by-Step:

1. Use a suede brush to remove dirt.
2. Dab stains with white vinegar (do NOT soak).
3. Sprinkle cornstarch on oil stains, let it sit, then brush off.
4. Store in a dust bag to prevent stains.

3️⃣ Cleaning Canvas Shoes & Sneakers 👟

✅ Materials Needed:

• Baking soda & detergent
• Soft toothbrush
• Warm water

🛠 Step-by-Step:

1. Make a baking soda & detergent paste.
2. Scrub with a soft toothbrush.
3. Rinse gently and air dry.
4. Stuff with paper towels to maintain shape while drying.

4️⃣ Cleaning Athletic & Running Shoes 🏃

✅ Materials Needed:

• Mild detergent
• Baking soda (for odor)
• Mesh bag (if machine washing)

🛠 Step-by-Step:

1. Remove laces and hand wash separately.
2. Scrub shoes using detergent & a brush.
3. Machine wash in a mesh bag (ONLY if label allows).
4. Air dry, never use a dryer as heat can warp the shoes.

5️⃣ Cleaning Rubber Boots & Flip-Flops 🥾

✅ Materials Needed:

• Dish soap
• Scrubbing brush

🛠 Step-by-Step:

1. Soak in soapy water for 10 minutes.
2. Scrub thoroughly and rinse.
3. Air dry completely before storing.
4. Apply a thin layer of coconut oil to keep rubber soft.

DIY Shoe Cleaning Hacks for Stubborn Stains

🦷 Toothpaste: Removes scuff marks from rubber soles. 🧴 Hand Sanitizer: Breaks down ink stains. 🧂 Baking Soda & Vinegar: Whitens sneakers instantly. 🥄 Cornstarch: Absorbs oil stains from suede. 🚿 Baby Wipes: Quick fix for leather & synthetic shoes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid While Cleaning Shoes

❌ Using too much water on suede/leather. ❌ Skipping insoles & laces (they absorb sweat & odor). ❌ Drying shoes in direct sunlight (causes fading & cracking). ❌ Using harsh detergents that break down fabric. ❌ Storing shoes while still damp, leading to mold.

Shoe Care and Maintenance Tips

✅ Store shoes properly to prevent damage. ✅ Use waterproofing sprays for longevity. ✅ Rotate shoes to extend their lifespan. ✅ Keep silica gel packs inside shoes to absorb moisture. ✅ Use a shoehorn to prevent wear on the heel.

When to Get Professional Shoe Cleaning Services? 👞✨

🔹 If shoes have deep stains that won’t come off. 🔹 If they are luxury or delicate shoes requiring special care. 🔹 If you want professional odor removal & deep cleaning. 🔹 If the material is delicate, such as suede or exotic leather.

Laundrywala’s expert shoe cleaning services offer: ✔ Odor removal ✔ Deep stain treatment ✔ Fabric-safe cleaning methods ✔ Waterproofing & restoration services

FAQs About Shoe Cleaning

❓ Can I wash my shoes in the washing machine?

✅ Yes, but ONLY if they are canvas or synthetic (not leather or suede). Always place them in a mesh laundry bag to protect them from damage, and use a gentle, cold wash cycle with mild detergent. Avoid using the dryer—air drying is best.

❓ How do I remove bad odor from shoes?

✅ Odor can be caused by sweat, bacteria, or moisture buildup. To remove it:

• Sprinkle baking soda inside your shoes overnight to absorb smells.
• Place unused tea bags in shoes to neutralize odor.
• Use a deodorizing spray or vinegar-water solution to kill bacteria.
• Make sure to air out your shoes after wearing them for long hours.

Read More: How to Remove Shoe Odor & Keep Your Footwear Fresh

❓ What’s the best way to clean white sneakers?

✅ White sneakers can be tough to keep clean, but these methods work:

• Baking soda & hydrogen peroxide paste: Apply, scrub gently, let sit, then rinse.
• Magic eraser or toothpaste: Removes scuff marks from rubber soles.
• Lemon juice and sun-drying: Natural bleaching effect helps remove yellowing.
• Hand wash only! Machine washing can weaken glue and cause separation.

❓ How do I prevent shoe creases?

✅ Creases happen due to bending, but you can minimize them by:

• Using sneaker shields or crease protectors inside your shoes.
• Storing with crumpled paper, socks, or shoe trees to maintain shape.
• Wearing shoes that fit properly—tight shoes crease more easily.
• Avoiding excessive moisture, which makes leather and fabric more prone to creasing.

❓ How do I clean shoelaces properly?

✅ Shoelaces absorb dirt, sweat, and bacteria, so cleaning them is important:

• Remove them and soak in warm water + detergent for 15 minutes.
• Scrub gently with a soft brush or old toothbrush.
• Rinse and air dry completely before re-threading.
• For white laces, use baking soda + hydrogen peroxide for extra whitening.

Conclusion

Cleaning your shoes properly keeps them fresh, stylish, and long-lasting. Regular maintenance helps prevent deep stains and extends the life of your favorite footwear!

💡 Want hassle-free, professional shoe cleaning? Let Laundrywala’s experts handle it for you!

📍 Book Now: www.laundrywala.in 📞 Call us at: 8650865586