We’ve all been there — you buy a fresh pair of sneakers, and within weeks they start to look worn, stained, or just tired. Good news: with the right care, your sneakers can look great for a long time.
Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide to keeping your sneakers clean, fresh, and long-lasting.
- Clean Them Regularly
Don’t wait until your shoes are filthy. A quick weekly clean helps prevent deep stains and odors.
What you need:
A soft brush or old toothbrush
Mild detergent or sneaker cleaner
A cloth and warm water
How to do it:
Remove the laces and insoles (clean separately)
Use the brush and soapy water to scrub dirt from the upper, midsole, and outsole
Wipe with a damp cloth and let air dry (never use direct sunlight or a dryer!)
- Protect Your Sneakers Before You Wear Them
Spray your new sneakers with a water and stain repellent before the first wear. It creates an invisible shield that keeps dirt and liquid from soaking in.
Reapply every couple of weeks for best results.
- Store Them Properly
Avoid tossing your shoes into a pile. Instead:
Store them in a cool, dry place
Use shoe trees or stuff them with paper to keep their shape
Keep them in their box or a shoe organizer to prevent dust buildup
- Handle White Sneakers With Care
White shoes look sharp — until they don’t. Clean them more frequently and avoid mud or wet grass.
Magic erasers work well on scuffs and midsoles. For fabric parts, use baking soda mixed with a little water to lift stains.
- Don’t Overwear Them
Rotate your shoes. If you wear the same pair every day, they’ll wear out faster and smell worse.
Let your sneakers breathe between wears — especially after heavy activity.
