How to Clean Running Shoes

We all know running shoes can get a little, or a lot, funky from time to time. But how do you clean running shoes properly?

How often should you clean running shoes?

There’s no strict answer here. I’ve had shoes that I’ve never cleaned and they still look great. I also have a current pair that looked nasty after a few runs. Depending on your feet, your sweat, where you run, etc you may feel you need to clean them more often. Darker shoes also tend to look cleaner longer than white shoes. #protip 🙂

What you need:

bucket or wash basin
gentle detergent or clothes soap (I add an oxi booster for really tough cases)
gentle scrub brush
paper towels or newspaper

What do do:

First, it’s important to say this: do not soak your shoes. Submerging them is definitely not recommended because of the potential for damage to the adhesives. Before getting started brush off any large clumps of dirt or debris.

You can remove the laces if they’re in need of special attention, and give them a good scrub and soak separately. I also remove the insoles and scrub, then let them dry separately. For really stinky cases this might be a huge help!

Then, go to town. Scrub gently, but firmly and make your way around the shoe. I like to rinse as I go so that I can see progress made and know where to keep focusing.

Once clean to your liking, or as good as they’ll get, stuff them with newspaper or paper towels (this will help absorb moisture from inside) and let them dry for about 24 or so hours. You might need to replace the paper inside once if they are really soggy.

What NOT to do:

Don’t soak or submerge your shoes, see above.
Don’t use bleach or harsh chemicals.
Don’t put them in the washing machine, dishwasher, etc. The water is too hot and again, no submerging.
Don’t put them in the dryer, next to a radiator, lay in the sun, etc. Heat can damage and dry out the materials.