Protect them before the first wear
The best cleaning is the cleaning you never have to do. Before you wear a new pair — especially suede, nubuck or knit — apply a quality sneaker protector spray. It creates an invisible barrier that repels water and stains so dirt wipes off instead of soaking in. Re-apply every few weeks of regular wear.
Your minimal cleaning kit
- A soft-bristle brush (an old toothbrush works for detail).
- A microfibre cloth.
- A mild sneaker cleaner, or a few drops of gentle soap in lukewarm water.
- A separate suede brush + suede eraser if you own suede or nubuck pairs.
- A magic-eraser sponge for rubber midsoles.
Clean by material
Leather: dip the brush in the soapy solution, work in small circles, then wipe clean with a damp cloth. Condition occasionally to stop cracking.
Suede & nubuck: keep water to a minimum. Brush dried dirt out with a suede brush, lift marks with a suede eraser, and only spot-clean with a barely-damp cloth if you must.
Mesh & knit: go gentle — a soft brush and light soapy water, dabbing rather than scrubbing so you don't fray the weave.
Midsoles & rubber: a magic eraser lifts scuffs off white midsoles fast. For toothbrush-tight areas, the soapy brush does the job.
Tip · Never put sneakers in the washing machine or dryer, and never dry them with direct heat (radiator, hairdryer). Heat warps soles and cracks glue.
Dry and store them properly
- Stuff cleaned shoes with plain paper towel to hold their shape and absorb moisture.
- Air-dry at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
- Store in a cool, dry place out of sunlight — UV yellows soles and fades colours.
- Use silica gel packs against damp, and loosen the laces so the collar keeps its shape.
Kill odours
For smell, sprinkle a little baking soda inside overnight and tip it out in the morning, or drop in cedar shoe inserts. Rotating between two or more pairs also gives each one time to dry out fully between wears, which does more for longevity than any spray.