Sneaker Care: Cleaning and Maintenance Guide

Sneaker care

Good sneaker care depends on the material. Leather, suede, mesh, canvas and synthetic uppers should not all be cleaned in the same way.

Basic cleaning routine

  1. Remove loose dirt with a dry, soft brush.
  2. Remove laces and, when appropriate, removable insoles.
  3. Use a mild cleaning solution suitable for the material.
  4. Work gently instead of soaking the entire shoe.
  5. Air-dry away from direct heat and intense sunlight.

Washing machines require caution

Machine washing can deform some shoes, damage adhesives or affect finishes. Check the manufacturer's care instructions before using a washing machine.

Odor control

Allow shoes to dry completely between uses, rotate pairs when possible and keep the interior ventilated. Persistent odor can indicate moisture trapped in the insole or lining.

Related guide

Read our article on washing sneakers in a washing machine before using that method.